Thursday, May 30, 2013

Smithsonian Article on Mary Lincoln's Seamstress

In Feburary 2013, I posted a link to memoirs of Elizabeth Keckley, who was a former slave that became Mary Todd Lincoln's seamstress and confident.  The memoirs give us a look into that period of time and the feelings of women throughout the War, from both sides of society.  The link above takes you to a Smithsonian blog with more information in a Q and A format.  Hope you enjoy it.
http://blogs.smithsonianmag.com/threaded/2013/04/the-story-of-elizabeth-keckley-former-slave-turned-mrs-lincolns-dressmaker/

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

More Trims---Re-creating the pleated edging

Here is another great tutorial from Threads.  The pleated edge was found on an old pillow cover.
Click the dress picture to see a period example of similar trim at the bottom of the skirt.

http://www.metmuseum.org/Collections/search-the-collections/80097035
 
From the article:
I recently found this embroidered cushion cover at a flea market. I bought it because I liked the edge trim around the outside of the piece, and wanted to figure out how to reproduce it.

Follow along for the results!
 
Check out these articles for more information on trims.
 
Trims, Trims, and More Trims 
 
How to make Soutache Loops
 

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Forgotten Faces and Long Ago Places

While traveling the information superhighway this weekend, I found this blog of period photographs.  This blog makes good reading and reference for researching fashion of the 1860-1890s.  It contains excellent pictures and descriptions. A collection of vintage photography and "orphan" photographs showcasing the past.  I love the hat on this young lady. http://forgottenfacesandlongagoplaces.blogspot.com/