Tag Archives: 18th Century

Il Muto Ballet Costume

Several years ago, I embarked on a journey to create doll-sized replicas of all the major costumes from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera. This is the sewing diary for one I just completed: the mint-green and pink … Continue reading

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Improving Theatrical Costumes

Are you in charge of the costumes for an amateur play or musical production? It’s a daunting challenge for anyone! In this three-part series of articles, we’ll discuss all manner of tips and tricks to help you make the most of your theatrical … Continue reading

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Period Costume for Stage and Screen: 1500-1800

Thursday’s Book Review Period Costume for Stage and Screen: 1500-1800 by Jean Hunnisett Rating 4 = Satisfactory

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Eighteenth Century Embroidery Techniques

Thursday’s Book Review: Eighteenth Century Embroidery Techniques by Gail Marsh Rating 5 = Shiny

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Boning Alternatives

Tuesday’s Tips & Tricks: Boning Alternatives Boning is a notion that can be used for many purposes. Corsets and bustiers come to mind first, but strapless bodices are often made with supportive boning, as well. If you’re making a garment … Continue reading

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Hand-Dyed Lace

Have you ever wanted lace that matches your project? In this two-part tutorial, you’ll learn the secrets to successfully dyeing Venetian lace and lace appliques. Create watercolor ombré effects, make your lace look antique, or hand-dye appliques for pieces that … Continue reading

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1877 Zone-Front Day Dress

Friday’s Fashion Plate: 1877 Zone-Front Day Dress Today we have a green day dress from La Dress Élégante, 1877.

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Elegantly Frugal Costumes

Thursday’s Book Review: Elegantly Frugal Costumes by Shirley Dearing

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A Plethora of Petticoats

Women have worn petticoats for centuries. We still do, in a manner of speaking. They’re no longer made of cotton (usually) but our modern half-slips are the equivalent of the historic petticoat. Until the 19th century, a petticoat was simply … Continue reading

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Taffeta

Saturday’s Stash: Taffeta Taffeta is a luxury fabric that’s lightweight and crisp. It tends to have a slight sheen to it, and it makes a characteristic rustling sound when it moves. Many taffetas are shot, that is, cross-woven with different … Continue reading

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