The following are handouts that I use when teaching
classes in historical costuming and other crafts. You may duplicate
these handouts for your own use; just please make sure this site
is credited. I do ask that you don't copy these notes and post to
another site; however, feel free to link to them.
If you are planning an event in the Kingdom of
Meridies (or the Kingdom of Atlantia near the Meridian border) and
you would like me to teach one of these classes, please email me.
All handouts are in Adobe PDF format. You will
need Adobe Acrobat Reader, a free download, to read and print them.
SCA Sewing For Beginners
This class is geared toward the novice sewer. It
discusses material selection, sewing preparation, using the sewing
machine, basic hand sewing, seam finishing, and common beginner pitfalls.
In a longer class period this is followed with a hands-on learning
period for students to try out hand and/or machine sewing.
This class is geared towards elementary-school-age
children. It introduces the process of making clothes, starting with
gathering fiber and going to making clothes. It is suggested that you
bring in samples of wool, linen, and silk cloth for the children to
feel. If you also have access to textile fiber both before and after
handspinning, this can be shown as well. For hands-on activities, children
can be given plastic canvas, yarn, and plastic yarn needles and can
learn a simple running stitch. They may also want to make pictures
with their yarn.
This class introduces blackwork embroidery. After
a brief historical overview, materials and techniques are introduced.
Each student receives a kit containing a beginner-level blackwork pattern,
a needle, evenweave fabric, and black embroidery floss. At least half
the class period should be reserved for the students to begin practicing
the double running stitch or working on the pattern, with the teacher
assisting and answering questions.
This class introduces Italian Maiolica ceramics, with an emphasis on the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. The class gives a brief overview of the development of Maiolica, illustrated by a slide show of example pieces in different styles. The class then offers a high-level overview of the equipment and materials needed to make maiolica, including discussions on glazing, firing, pouncing, and how to obtain access to a kiln. The handout provides resources for futher study and supplies.
This make-and-take class will introduce fingerloop
braiding, used in period to make laces, points, purse strings,
and similar items. Students will make a simple braid during class.