Everyday life – Fashion Through Herstory

2018 – What’s to come

Published on January 1, 2018 by fashionthrougherstory1 Comment

I’ve ended 2017 pretty slow regarding to sewing (and posting) and I must confess – even 2018 will follow that line.

Sometimes you just need to know when you need to slow things down a bit (even if I seems to quickly forget and suddenly be right there speeding again…ops)

But I do have a few big things planed for this coming year (amongst other smaller stuff that will pop up here once done):

2 Secret Projects:

This year will be the year of the big and grand gowns for me.

And even though I will not tell you much, I can tell you that:

One will be a magnificent ballgown from somewhere between 1870-1890s.

And the other one will be a total delight from the 18th century for a client.

A name change:

When I started this blog back in 2014, I didn’t really take the time to figure out the perfect name for it.
Granted, “Fashion through History” have served me well, and does clearly indicate what it is I do here.

But with my decision to start a business, and brand myself a bit more, I took a new look at the name, and came up with (ok, my boyfriend came up with it) something even better.

Don’t worry, you will all still recognize my name/site. It will just be a tad more specific 😀

And a Baby:

Yup!

Those of you who know or follow me closely, might already have figured out what my sudden lack in posting/sewing/partaking in life in general ment…

I’m doing that baby thing again 😉

Do you have any big planes for this coming year?

2017 Sum up

Published on December 29, 2017 by fashionthrougherstory6 Comments

And so another year of sewing draws to it’s end, and it is yet again time to look back and count down the makings of the past year.

My 2017 have been a real roller-coaster ride, juggling maternity-leave, work, keeping a home and a looking after a ever growing baby/toddler (with a love for running around and climbing on stuff…).

But I’ve also managed to get quite some sewing done between babys naps and some an-planed unemployment.

Here’s what I’ve been up to:

(And here’s a reminder from January on what I planed to make 2017 and part 2)

January:

A green Regency apron For the HSM2017 Challenge nr 1 – First and last, I made a fast and simple Regency Apron, from fabric i had in my stash.

A 1860s Corset for my sister The first piece for her 1860s ensamble, was made in a beautiful light green cotton satin from my stash.

February:

A golden 1860s corsetWhile I was on it I made one for me to in a flowery coutil I had bought for just such a project a few years ago.
And yes – I already had all of the materials for both the corsets at home – got to love a big stash, right?

Re-made my old Elizabethian pair of bodice for the HSM 2/2017 – Re-make
I made the whole thing a bit smaller by taking out the added guesets, and a bit more comfortable by removing 2/3 oft the boning. So much better!

Added some lace to my 1660s evening gown – Not yet blogged about

Mars:

A Regency Spencer For the HSM 3/2017 – Outdoors, I made a Regency Spencer n a lovely burgundy and black colored wool.

A (huge) Eliptical Cage CrinolineTo complete my sisters 1860s underwear I made a Huge orange Crinoline (and petticoat) out of a cotton sheet and some (a lot, actually) bits of metal pipe cleaners.

April:

A grecian Chiton For the HSM 4/2017 – Squares and rectangles, in made a Grecian chiton in an (totaly inapropirate and hiddeous) poly satin.

A 1865s evening gown
To finish of my sisters ensamble I made her a 1860s evening gown from a teal colored curtain sprinkled with silver sparkles (each attached by hand, by me). This gown also fitted the HSM Challenge 5/2017 – Literature, and since I teqnically finished (I made the final touches and added the belt) in may, I say it works.

May: A 1825s evening gown I just couldn’t resist the lovely purple bedsheet when I found it on sale at my local chain store. The urge to turn it into something crazy (like a 1820-30s dress) came soon after. And I just love how quirqy and colorful the whole ensamble looks.

June:
A 1860s walking outfit for my sisterAnother one I’m shoe-horning into the HSM – nr 7/2017 – Fashion Plate, since this needed to be worn in June, but since I found the perfect fashion plate to mimic I knew I had to enter it. This dress is yet another one made from beddings.

A 1920s turqouise colored daydress My original plan for the HSM 6/2017 – metallics, was this jade colored 1-hour dress, maybe decorated with some silvery gems, but once finished I liked it as it was and I decided to leve it bare.

A 1920s evening dressSo I ended up using one of my long stashed sequnied fabrics for this sparkly bit of 1920s evening dress – Which fit perfectly into the June challenge.

1801s cotton drop front daydressI made this dress as part of “Romantic Recollections” Regency challenge where you where asked to make something from the Regency era and then emelish it. I’m really happy about how it turned ot and the matching bag (where I tried my hand at silk embroidery for the first time) is one of my favourites.

July:
July was the month where I really started working on some stock items for my business. In a few weeks I finished several Regency dresses (tweaking the pattern as I went). Unfortuanly I haven’t have the time to blog about them yet, and not all have proper photographs taken.

A striped Regency Evening gown

A golden/glittery Regency evening “skirt” (to be added to any plain dress)

A dotted Regency evening gown

A red/white flowery Regency Daydress

A blue/white striped Regency Daydress (no photos yet)

August:

A Pink/white Robe a la FrancaiseI started this project about 3 years ago and finally took the time to finish it this summer, and I’m so happy I did. It’s so joyfully over the top that it fit perfect for the HSM 8/2017 – Ridicuolus.

A Green Cotton Regency Pelisee (No other photos yet)

a complete re-make of my old Spring Anglaise I’m so happy how this dress turned from something “Not even worth selling” to “I’m keeping this one for me”.

September:

A 1690s MantuaYet another “over the top” dress, this time for the HSM 9/2017 – Seen on Screen. I made this dress to wear at an Baroque ball tis fall, but once my planes fell through I still managed to get it finished in time for the HSM.

Oktober:

Regency menswear (No photos yet)Both to challenge myself for the HSM 10/2017 – Out of Your Comfort zone, and to add another few pieces to my ever growing stock, I made 3 Regency Wests and 1 Pair of pantalons.

November:

A 1920s Cocoon coat (no photos yet)For a friends 1920s themed Halloween-party, I made a black velvet skirt and a blue/black ribbed Cocoon coat, which sadly never got worn due to my whole family getting sick with the flu.

A Purple Regency “Train” (awaiting better pictures)For my dance teams annual Regency ball I updated my old evening gown with some gold leafs and added a Court train (cut short for dancing).

December :
A Burgundy 1450s Burgundian gown (Still in process)
hopefully finished by the new year mark…

I’ve also made a ton of kids-clothes.
Mostly T-shirts and soft pants, but also a few hats, pajamas and warm (water-resistant) pants for outside play. The first batch of long and short sleeved T-shirts for my little boy.

***

Phew, that was that 😀

Wow, this year I’ve been really productive (If I might say so myself ;-))
It’s so unrealistic seeing it all in a row like this – you might think I never do anything other then sew.
But thanks to a really nice kid (who sleeps like, well, a child) and some lesser work load then usual I, counted to about 3 hours of un-interupted sewing timme each day (some days a lot more).

Did you find the time (and energy) to make what you wanted this year?

HSM 2017 – The rest of the year (Aug-Dec)

Published on June 22, 2017June 20, 2017 by fashionthrougherstory2 Comments

I always find it hard to plan a full year of sewing ni adwance, since so much can happen that will change your creative drift and interest.
So this year I only made plans for the first half of the “Historical sew Monthly“.

But as summer’s now upon us I think it is time to take a new look at the uppcoming challenges, and to try to figure out what I wan’t to create for the ending of this year.

August:
Ridiculous – Make something that was considered outrageous in its own time, or is just utterly ridiculous to modern eyes.

There are SOoo many things yuu could do here, like 1880s bustles, 1890s mutton-sleeves, 17th century trunkhose ore 1830s hairs (already done that:-).
But for this challenge I will try to finish my Robe a la Franchaise that I begunn in 2014. 21b6904ef6a12a9a9d65e486ef558bfd It’s not silly looking per se, but the panniers that it will go over are a bit cazy

September:
Seen Onscreen – Be inspired by period fashions as shown onscreen (film or TV), and recreate your favorite historical costume as a historically accurate period piece.

I’ve been wanting to make myself some more 17th century garb and now might be a good oppurtunity to get to it.
elizabeth-capell-countess-of-carnarvon-ca-1665-sir-peter-lely I’m thinking maybe a new 1860s bodice (since I already have a pattern)
Or maybe someting a bit more daring like a mantua (I’ve hears a lot of Swedes arte doing these now a days…)

October:
Out of Your Comfort Zone – Create a garment from a time period you haven’t done before, or that uses a new skill or technique that you’ve never tried before.

This one is hard, but I’ve been wanting to give menswear a fair try, so why not now. k4202drw I already have a Regency west cut and waiting, and if I can find the time I would love to also make a pair of breechers and a shirt.

November:
HSF Inspiration – Be inspired by something that has been made for the HSF over the years to make your own fabulous item.

There are so many gorgeous and inpireing entrys to the HSF/HSM, that it would be almost inpossible to choose only one.
That I think I will approach this from the other angle – to decide the garment first, by going through my stash and then find the right inspiration from the comunity.

December:
Go Wild – You can interpret this challenge as an excuse to make something that incorporates animal print, or wild animals in some way, or to simply make something wild and over the top.

I also been craving an 15th century Burgundian gown for myself, and since those often are decorated with fur, it would be the perfect choise. spinning-women1

As you sure can guess, I’m planing a lot more costumes this year, 3 of which are already well on their way, that don’t fit into the scheduel that is the HSM.

2017 – Planing Ahead

Published on January 11, 2017 by fashionthrougherstory6 Comments

As we go deeper into January 2017, its time to plan this years sewing.

Yay!

This year I did things a little differently then usual (where I just pic ALL the things), because having a small baby really eats away of your sewing time 😉
So, this year I picked All the things I want to sew..

…and then I removed half of them.
All costumes with lots of pieces/decorations/complicated (and time consuming) elements had to go. Sorry, Not sorry.

Then I took a hard and “realistic” (yeah right) look at what was manageable with approx 1-3 hours sewing a week (more, if I could use nap time at its fullest but that’s hardly likely).

Then I took a look at my stash (because after half a year of maternity leave you really need to cut back on the excesses, like fabrics) and added that account into the ekvation.

And lastly I run everything through the eyes of the “Historical sew monthly” and possible events to come, and tried my best to match everything up.

So, after lots of forth and back, here is what i plan to make during 2017:
(Presented through the HSM17 lineup)

The Historical Sew Monthly 2017:
(January-July)

January:
Firsts & Lasts – Create either the first item in a new ensemble, or one last piece to put the final fillip on an outfit.

8b05963d5ee97df4f28e42f9f5f09e09 I begun the work on the apron on this fashion plate back in December and it will be both my first entry into 1810-20s (late Regency), and possibly the last piece of this ensemble I can finish this year (even though I would love to make the dress and bonnet as well).
And for the purpose of this challenge the apron will be the first item on this ensemble and the last ting to put on before leaving the home.

February:
Re-Make, Re-Use, Re-Fashion – Sew something that pays homage to the historical idea of re-using, re-making and re-fashioning.

For this one I have two dresses that I would love to re-make to a better fit and perhaps even a better design.

This 1780s Robe needs to be fitted better over my “new” stays, and perhaps let out a tad in the sleeves.

This 1910s evening gown needs a nicer back closure, and I think it would look better with the draping a bit more stitched down and controlled.

March:
The Great Outdoors – Get out into the weather and dirt with an item for outdoor pursuits.

I’m not quite sure on what to make for this one yet, but I would love to make either a Regency Spencer

Or this 1910s wrap cape.Beautiful, Isn’t it?

Another thing I’m contemplating is to make a 18th century hair decoration to match the brown Robe Anglaise above. fbac9dca5d32b7a9e85ab39e839c26ea 650e2205c62d97b75a2e1ba7ad3e4a16
Something like these two mixed up

April:
Circles, Squares & Rectangles – Make a garment made entirely of squares, rectangles and circles.

On this one I plan to keep it simple with a Greek Chiton or Peplos made from one/two big rectangles of fabric.

I might also get time to make the frilly 1820s bonnet from January’s fashion plate.

May:
Literature – Make something inspired by literature.

Also not sure on this one.
I would love to make a new Edwardian evening gown (if some of my fabrics speaks to me)

Or a green Regency day dress (or maybe a Pelisse) out of a pretty cotton fabric I’ve been sitting on for a few years now. 5880ee0d1aa5d43db828e03caa587e55

Or I might just take this opportunity to finish my Robe a la Franchaise (begun in 2014)
21b6904ef6a12a9a9d65e486ef558bfd

The literature reference won’t be hard to find on either of them.

June:
Metallics – make something in silver, gold, bronze, and copper, whether it be an actual metal, cloth of gold or silver, or lamé.

I was planing on making one of these 1-hour dresses from the 1920s in a lovely turquoise jewel toned fake silk, but now that I read the challenge description again I realize that won’t do.Perhaps I can add some sparkle or a nice piece of jewelry to go with the dress, to make it fit the challenge criteria better.

July:
Fashion Plate – Make an outfit inspired by a fashion plate, whether it is a direct replica, or a more toned down version that fits the resources and lifestyle of the character you are portraying.

Another Regency piece I’ve been coveting for a while is a greek inspired over robe like his one.

For the rest of the year (Aug-Dec) I want to wait a bit to decide what to do, since life and priorities change depending on sewing time/up-coming events or new interests.

So the last 5 challenges will be decided later this spring/summer.

August: Ridiculous

September: Seen Onscreen

October: Out of Your Comfort Zone

November: HSF Inspiration

December: Go Wild

Here is however some of the things I’m thinking about

A new 17th century evening bodice

A 15th century Burgundian gown spinning-women1

A sheer Regency gown to dress up/down depending on occasion.

A man’s Regency waistcoat k4202drw

Of course I also plan to make lots of new baby clothes and perhaps one or two modern dresses/shirts for myself.

Lets see what I can get done 🙂

Ponderings on a friday afternoon

Published on July 22, 2016July 16, 2016 by fashionthrougherstory3 Comments

This is an old post, written about 3 months ago, that I forgot to post. But I think it’s still important for me o went these thoughts out loud, so here we go.

A quick warning – this have nothing to do with sewing or anything like that, so if that’s why you’r here (which I guess it is) considered yourself warned.

***

Today after work, I dropped by the grocery store to pic up some items for dinner. When the person behind me in the check-out line stepped in way to close.
Have you ever had that feeling – someone’s just a tad bit to close for comfort, and once you move to fix it, they keep stepping after. It’s not like a conscious threat, just something they do without thinking.
– They invade your personal space.

This happens to me – a Lot.

Way to crowded for my taste…

I read some wear that the scientists managed to pinpoint the exact inch of peoples “personal space”.
with some variations in different countries and cultures, they know exactly how far away we comfortably stand to a stranger or our dear friend (much closer) when interacting.
We are all hardwired to feel this line in between two people and to place ourselfs accordingly.

Well I guess some people just did’t get that memo…

Or rather, I think my “personal space” are somehow bigger then the average persons.

As a Swede, who’s basically known for standing orderly in line, without ever making eye-contact with other people, I often rage at myself for not speaking up, even when I’m literally pushed into a corner.

I’ve been “pushed” out of check-out lines, seats on busses and lovely spaces on the beach countless of times, and I never say anything out loud (though my body language shouldn’t be to hard to read, you’d think).

Last week one of my co-workers (totally oblivious of personal space) kept following me when I step by step backed away from him, since he was way to close (in my mind). It ended when I hit my back against the wall and literally dowe under his arm in panic, to get away from him.
And no, this have nothing to do with sexual harassment, flirting or something like that. We were discussing a work thing, and my skin just started crawling with panic, just because he didn’t realize he was “in my space”.

Not even then did I say something.

Afterwards I always ponder over what I should have said (because just standing still, holding my ground just don’t work when the panic rises inside).
– Excuse me, but I feel uncomfortable when you/people stand to close, can you back up a step please?
or
– Sorry, but you are standing to close for me to be comfortable, can you give me some more space?

It sounds like a simple thing to say/do but somehow I never dare to.
Perhaps I’m afraid of peoples reaction, should they feel insulted and say something like: “I never hurt a woman
in my life! Is’it because I’m a man?” or something like that.
Because, lets face it, girls/women often take the hint when you step away the first time, and if not, a raised eyebrow and a look will do the trick.

“Susanna and the Elders” (1610) by Artemisia Gentileschi
Ok, maybe this picture is a bit overkill, but sometimes you literally feel like this.

What do you think?
Does this ever happens to you, and what do you do then?

I think I’m just worried I will pass this on to my child, since it looks very much like insecurity and self-degradation compared to other people.
And I wish I will find the courage to speak up next time.

And don’t even get me started on my fear of the “Oh, lets pet that big baby bump of yours”, I feel might come now the weather are warmer and the jacket are thinner (and don’t closes anymore).
I hope I will give those people (often older ladies) a nice right hook… put again, I probably won’t 😦

Introducing – Baby Charlie

Published on June 27, 2016June 25, 2016 by fashionthrougherstory15 Comments

He is here – and my life will never be the same again.

He’s the light of my life, and already has both me and daddy firmly on the hook 😉

I’m a ninja-warrior-baby…

20160610_180039_resized
Thanks for all kind words 🙂

Love
/ Åsa & Charlie

My (everyday) pregnancy style

Published on June 25, 2016 by fashionthrougherstory6 Comments

As we all know, being pregnant do some things to your body (and mind).
Things that makes your morning routine take some extra time, and I’m not talking about morning sickness or the constant trips to the toilet – I’m talking of the head scratching process of dressing.

In the beginning (at least for me, I know everyone have it differently) you just feel bloated, unattractive and with a greenish tint to your complexion. Though wearing your normal clothes still works, if only a bit snug, some people prefer to wear cute little dresses with a bow tied on top. This was not an option for me, since we decided to wait quite some time before announcing to anyone that I was expecting.
So usual clothes it was – Even though I didn’t choose the most figure hugging tops in my wardrobe, (and thanks to Swedish autumn and winter just around the corner I could easily hide in bulky knits and cosy sweatshirts.

I was lucky enough to be able to wear my winter jacket the whole winter (it was a close one though, had spring hesitated a week more I would have been forced to get another one).

When spring arrived and my belly started to show for real, I bought a pair of pregnancy pants from a known two lettered fashion store, and kept wearing my usual tops and shirts. Everything with enough stretch in them would work. I also frequently used a pair of soft lose pants tied under the bump.
After a while I needed to add a long tank-top beneath my regular tops as my expanding belly made them look shorter and shorter.Comfortable loose pants, slim dress worn as a top and white belt.
pregnant in: week 39*

There is no way that sweater will close…
week 37

In May my belly was really growing fast and I could literally see the changes each morning. I got myself a new pair of maternity jeans (the old pair was quite worn out by this time), and even splurged on a pair of denim shorts. 20160509_081328_resized_1 Summer style – also, notice the sensible walking shoes
week 36

I did attend a few parties during the spring, and in the beginning had some trouble finding a nice dress to wear.
I bought a lavender blue pregnancy dress in January for these occasions, but when time come to put it on, it never felt right. In stead I raided my own closet, and found several dresses that would work.The maternity dress I never liked.
I did wear it though – for my birthday celebration in week 39 – the day before delivery.
week 30

A printed A-line dress I wore to several parties and occasions both during and before pregnancy.
week 39

A green form fitting jersey dress, I’ve never had the courage to wear before, but with a bump this big I figured no one would notice my other “bumps” and “humps”…
week 39 (two days before delivery)

Although not as much as I initially planed, I did work out some during my pregnancy. And when it came to clothes for bicycling, power walks and weight lifting I just used my regular fitness clothes – Pants worn beneath the belly, long stretch tops and jackets/west worn open.
week 27

week 38

In the end my favorite clothes during my pregnancy was a slim black dress, a long tank top and a printed kimono/caftan, all worn with a narrow belt beneath the bust – non of which was new or made for a pregnant body.

Slim black dress accessorized with belt, huge jewelry and gold bag.
week 30

At my “goodby-party” at work, wearing flowery kimono, tank top and shorts.
week 38

week 37

*In Sweden we count pregnancy in 40 weeks (with 40 full weeks as the calculated day of birth, and full term at 38-42 weeks).
I had my baby at 39 weeks and 2 days.

A Treasured Heirlome

Published on September 8, 2015 by fashionthrougherstory2 Comments

Last months theme on “Historical Sew Monthly” was “Heirloom” (yes, I’m a month behind, but plan to soon be back on track).

Since all my older relatives have past away I struggled a bit with this one, but finally came up with something that would work.
But while I finish things up an get proper photographs of my entry, I thought I’d share one of my favorite Heirlooms from my grandmother.

Her binder from the pattern drafting mail class she took in 1964. “Nordisk brevskola” (Nordic mail courses”

When I was a kid me and my siblings used to visit my grandparents every weekend.
My grandmother was such a fun person who loved children and was never to occupied to play with us or show us how to pluck starwberries from their gardens.

She suffered from a stroke when I was about 13 years old, and even though she survived she could no longer play with us, or even make us understand her strange sounds, no longer able to produce any words.
I remember how chocked I was about her sudden change, and my uncomfortable feeling of insecurity and when she tried to talk to me.
I’m ashamed to admit I couldn’t handle it and thous almost stopped coming along to wist her.
A few years later she had yet another stroke, lethal this time, and I remember the emptiness and sorrow I felt, regretting not being there more at the end.

After her death I was given her old sewing patterns, some threads and this particular binder – which I hold dear to my heart.
The thought of her taking the pattern drafting course slowly learning by finishing one homework/test at the time, is just wonderful.
Since I also know she loved to sew little dresses for me and my sisters – which unfortunately all have now gone to charity.

Anyhow, to late in date for the HSM but a nice piece of Swedish dressmaking history all the same.“Modern pattern drafting”

You’l learn how to properly measure someone.

Drafting the basic pattern templates – Her the dress/bodice/skirt pattern.

Fabric layout’s equally important – in Sweden we call this a “Läggbild”

You also need to know how to alter the pattern pieces, and how to move the darts to your desired location.Interesting to see the way they used to put the darts between the breasts – something almost never used anymore.

Drafting a circular skirt (half circle) for that characteristic 50s look.

And some more challenging stuff like this fabulous jacket

I also love this kimono sleeve drafting

And who can resist the glamorous 1960s full skirted evening gowns Oh la la

My grandmothers “homework” drafting’s.

And at the end of the binder/course she received a diploma – notice the date…

I’m yet to make up one of these patterns, but I definitely will someday – if only to remember my granny.

City Cultural Festival with Dance Recital

Published on September 4, 2015 by fashionthrougherstory2 Comments

By now it’s been two weeks ago the annual cultural festival in our town.
And just like last year me and my dance team was there to do a little performance.

This year the theme/time period on our dance was “Anything goes” or “All decades unite” to promote the upcoming Ball with the same theme.

I had some trouble deciding on what to wear (such a luxury problem, right), but in the end I decided to wear my new 17th century outfit. Mainly because I (correctly) guessed no one else would be wearing 17th century, and because I really wanted to try it out properly, to decide how I felt about it (stomacher and all)

Me and Maud

The weather was perfect (maybe even a bit to hot), and the stage had been set up in the perfect spot in the middle of the park, with lots of market booths and activities close by to help draw audience to us.

The performance went well, even though all our memorys was a bit rusty after the summer break.Lots of decdes in one dance: 1780s, Medieval, 1850s, regency and 1660s.

I used my thin fichu to cover my scooping decolletage from both uncomfortable eyes and the scorching sun.

Between the shows we had a short break to watch the other teams dance, and to take a short turn at the market (where we handed out information about our ball)

Swedish folk dance team

Lindy hopp

The Swedish Polska dancing team.

The historic dance team’s resting in the shade.

Carl and Shakila from my sewing course, sporting medieval and 1850s evening wear.

Maud in er fabulous 18th century Anglaise.

We performed right beside the old cars exhition.

We also meet the mascot for our local Hockey team – I do not envy the poor hot person inside…

Before it was time to go home I got a few minutes to talk (and take some photos) with my childhood dance teacher Katarina.
I joined in her kids folk dance team at the age of 6, continued as assisting dance teacher at age 15, and still frequent the same summer dances, festivals, and barbecues. 17th century meets Skedevi national costume (summer edition).

I totally adore this woman.

Once home again, my fiancé helped me by taking some photos of my outfit (sans the fichu).

After the day ended I can truly say that I really love this costume.
I felt so pretty and stylish in it, the shape it gives me and the way it makes me feel really petite and like an Amazon at the same time is just so great (sorry, can’t describe the felling any better)
But I must admit it was quite a relief to get home, unlace and put on some sweats…
(I’m curently working on some big plans for this costume…)

Blog Awards!

Published on June 27, 2015June 27, 2015 by fashionthrougherstory4 Comments

Wow!
What can I say – Two award in one week!

Last week the wonderful Crystal from “Adventures in Biastape” nominated me to “Sisterhood of the World Blogger Award!”, and this week lovely Catherine from “Catherine the Teacher” does the same.

I’m just so happy and humbled by these ladies kindness and support of my work/blog.
Thank you so much!
I really appreciate it (and I love reading your nice comments to my post and projects every week:-))

To claim the award/awards I need to follow the rules and:
1. Thank the blogger who nominated you, linking back to their site
2. Put the Award logo on your blog.
3. Answer the 10 questions sent to you.
4. Make up 10 new questions for your nominees to answer
5. Nominate 10 blogs.

And since I got two awards I should probably double it…Right?
I normally don’t pas on chain-letters and similar stuff, but I’m willing to compromise a bit on this one.

So, I will nominate a total of 10 blogs, and come up with 10 new questions.
And since answering these kind of questions are pretty fun, I will try to do both Crystals and Catherines questions here below. So prepare for a long post..
That seams quite fair I think.

But first, here are my nominees:

1. Sarah – A Most Peculiar Mademoisell
2. Caroline – Anno 1776
3. Isabella – All the Pretty Dresses
4. Merja – The Aristocat
5. Caroline – Dressed in Time
6. Cathrin – Katafalk
7. Elisa – Isis Wardrobe
8. Nora – The Shadow of My Hand
9. Liz – The Pragmatic Costumer
10. Vienna – The Austrian Woman
Lots of Swedes in there, but these are the blogs/and people I feel all do some tremendous work in both blogging and costuming.

And my questions:

1. How did you start sewing Historical/or other costumes?
2. What other tings do you do then sewing/creating?
3. What item/project that you made are you the most proud of? (may we see pictures?)
4. Do you have a secret shame item/project that you will share? (Pictures?)
5. Do you prefer Books, You-Tube videos or other, for sewing reference? And which are your favorite one/s?
6. Whats your best sewing tip/trick?
7. What’s your biggest sewing cheat that you do but you know that you shouldn’t?
8. What’s you biggest inspiration in deciding on up-coming projects?
9. Do you have a favorite era/style that you do?
10. What is your dream project? (Picture/s please)

Ok, time for some answers:

Crystals Questions:

1. Why is your blog named what it is?
Everything else I tried was occupied. No, but really, I had lots of ideas, but non was vacant, or they would convey the wrong message. And being un-patient as I am, I just ran with the first thing that worked.

2. What made you decide to start blogging?
“The Historical Sew Forthnightly” 2013 – I read everyone else’s blogs and loved it.
Then, when Leimomi (the hostess of “The HSF”) picked one of my project as her favorite and linked to my (only) picture, I knew I needed a blog.
And now it has it’s own post! Yay!

3. What do you enjoy most about blogging?
I love how you have all your knowledge in one place. You can go back and take a look at previous projects and learn from past mistakes. I usually look through my “Portfolio” when deciding what to wear to an event – so much faster then going down to the basement.
I also love sharing my pictures of both costumes and events, and of course all the nice/smart/funny comments I get from my readers.

4. On average, how much time do you spend sewing?
Having a full time job, I don’t have the time (or energy) to sew as much as I like, but I usually spent an average of 10 hours a week sewing – ca 1-2 hour/s in front of the TV each night, and at least a couple of hours at the weekend.

5. Of your favorite eras, do you prefer having patterns pre-made or making your own?
I usually make my own pattern (from any era), I either drape or draft the patterns using pattern templates and my dressmaking books as guides.
I used to think it was hard using bought patterns – not knowing the makers thoughts when drafting.
But lately I’ve been trying out some ready-made pattern which all worked great.

6. Speaking of favorite eras, which one is yours and why?
Oh, this one is always the hardest question to answer, since I love them all so much, and it wary from day to day.
But I must say mid 16th century will always be in my heart – Since that what’s got me into costuming. I love the structured aesthetics of female fashion with its abundance of decoration but without flimsiness – I guess it speaks to my modern sensibility.Catherine Parr (6th wife of Henry VIII)

7. What is the most unconventional object used in a previous project? (Either in the making of, or actually in the item)
Hm, I’ve used Duck-tape, hot glue gun and plastic zip-ties.
But I think they looked at me the strangest at the hardware store when I bought metal pipe-cleaners (and heavy duty pliers to cut said metal) to use in my 1850s Crinoline.

I also must confess: My tool box (which I keep in my sewing room) is bigger then my boyfriends.

8. Describe your ideal sewing area.
Big! Preferably the whole house…
No I’m kidding, even though I tend to use about every room in our (big) apartment for sewing – You know, pattern drafting at the kitchen table, fabric cutting on the living room floor, hand-stitching in the sofa before the TV and trying out mock-ups by the hallway mirror.
Whats the fun in being caught up in your sewing room…?
Using the whole living room and hallway floor for fabric cutting. (1880s Evening Gown)

9. Care to share your favorite sewing tip/trick?
I always work on all the pieces of a garment at the same time:
Pinning everything, then stitching and finally pressing everything in one bunch, then back to pinning once again. And on and on it goes until I finish the garment with hand-sewing.
Working like this makes it go so much faster then working one seam/piece at the time. I do however need to know where I’m going with everything right from the start, as I often finish the sleeves before the bodice, and the lining is ready and waiting even before the final fitting.
The sleeves, “skirt” and buttons were all ready and waiting to be attached at this stage. (1770s Caraco Jacket)

10. Coffee or tea? Plain or doctored?
Neither.
Here in Sweden it’s considered strange (and a bit childish) not to drink Coffee, but I can’t stand the taste. When it comes to tea it’s basically the same – I do however drink it “when etiquette calls for it”, but I just rather have a glass of water.

Catherine’s Questions:

1. What type of music and/or movies do you like to have on while you work (work = sewing/creating art)
I usually watch TV-series on my computer when doing my hand sewing, preferably historic dramas.
This year I’ve gone through all seasons of: Game of Thrones, Downton Abby, The Tudors (I know, I know, sorry), The Borgias, Mr Selfridges, Outlanders and Marco Polo, among others…“Mr Selfridges”
The trick is to re-watch.
Then you already now what’s happening, and can focus on your work while listening and only catching a gimps now and then.

2. What gives you the most satisfaction while working on a new project?
Progress!
I’m what they call a “project starter”, and sometimes have a hard time finishing one thing before moving on to the next. This makes my head over run with ideas, and my cutting table full off fabric and pattern piles for upcoming projects.
So fast, and easy to spot progress, makes me really happy, and make it feels like I’m really getting somewhere (See question 9 above).I love putting my projects on my dressform to see how they’r coming along. (1550s Doublet)

3. What inspires you the most when you are mulling over what to create next?
Pinterest!
And my own fabric stash (and sometimes the fabric stores stash).
It’s when those two comes together that magic happens, as they say.
It’s like “Hey! I have that fabric!” and then I’m of…

(1914s Summmer dress)

4. Does it bother you if your pet lays on your fabric, paper etc while you are trying to work? And what are your pet(s) names?
Well, since I don’t have a pet (only a boyfriend), It does sometimes bother me when he lays on my work for attention, especially if I’m on a tight deadline.
But other times, not so much…
And his name is Johan 🙂

5. How long ago did you get involved in your hobby?
As a kid I was a really creative drawer/painter, and flooded my room (and my parents) with paintings. I can sill draw, but now a days I don’t have time to work at it as much as I used to.
I started sewing in “Gymnasiet” (upper high school) about 14 years ago, where I attended “fashion & sewing school“. Me, working on a costumers ball gown about 6 years ago.
I’ve always been interested in history, but Historic costuming is relatively new to me – I only started 4 years ago, after some sporadic previous try’s.
I think it was when I discovered “The Historical Sew Fortnightly” I really started to develop an interest in costuming and getting everything “Right”.
(Thanks Sarah of “A Most Peculiar Mademoiselle”, for introducing me to this obsession ;-))My very first 16th century gown, which I loved back in 2008. (1530s Tudor Gown)

6. What is the ultimate garment that you yearn to create?
A perfectly flawless 1550s Gown including accessories – Something I will never afford, or manage to do, but a girl’s got to dream…
I just adore Izabela of “A Damsel in This Dress” Tudor gown.

7. What has been the mistake that taught you the most?
I make so many mistakes all the time (and always learns a lot), I’ts hard to choose just one.
Perhaps it’s one of the events I went to last year – The Historic Multi Era Picnic, were I put so much effort into everything being perfect for me and my sister, that I ended up totally exhausted and really cranky instead of just relaxing and having a good time.
So now I try to put some of the pressure aside and not fretting over every detail ( I said try.)

8. If you have any advice for someone just starting out in the hobby, what would it be?
Oh gosh there are so many – You know, always press, baste, measure and take your time etc.
But I would say – learn to make it right, so that you then can learn how to cheat.
And also – Don’t be afraid of starting over or doing it wrong – just use cheap fabrics in the beginning. I spent half a day trying to pattern a 1860s bonnet before I realized it just wouldn’t work. (1860s Bonnet)

9. Who has been the biggest inspiration and/or mentor when working on projects and/or keeping you motivated?
Everyone on the historic blogosphere.
But most of all I’ts been Leimomi of “The Dreamstress” for bringing everyone together in “The Historical Sew Fortnightly“, where I love to show of my creations.
I also owe a great debt to Sarah of “A most Peculiar Mademoiselle” for getting me into historical sewing.
And I love to read and marvel over Izabela of “A damsel in This Dress” and Lauren of “American Duchess” for their never ending inspiration and impeccable sewing skills. red-dress-and-shoes I soo need a red Robe Anglaise now… (Picture from American Duchess)

10. If you could attend any event (historical or otherwise) what would it be and why?
Such a hard one, but I would love to go to Costume College one day, to see all the fabulous people/dresses and attend all the classes I’ve can only dream of here in Sweden.
Poster for CoCo 2015