And we’ll see how long that lasts. First post of the year is posted on the fifth day of January … not the first … which should give you an idea how it is going to go on. Nevertheless, …
I suppose I should recap the preceding months of no blog activity. I have actually been very busy. My nephew, my sister’s son, has been taking us to the Dicken’s Christmas Fair these last few years, and I have been wanting to dress my sister for the event. She still has her Victorian figure, and can wear hoops. This year I did it. Several weeks it took, and the results were entirely satisfactory. She got to dance in Fezziwig’s Warehouse with her son, in costume.
I had a high old time trying to get decent photos. I’m no photographer; my phone irritates me; and my subjects were moving on a crowded dance floor. But I persevered. This is the best shot of my handiwork: bonnet, shawl, and skirt. There is also a three-tiered muslin petticoat not visible.
There is much to grouse about: living in the Bay Area. But being able to bounce on down to Lacis, (I have linked to their website, as the place is worth a visit if you are in the area), and purchase a hoop skirt for your Victorian attire is a point on the positive side of the balance.
And then … one of the many cool things about the Dicken’s Fair, held every year, is that for five or six weekends (I’m not sure how long it runs, but you can click the link), you can be paid to dance, and teach dancing, in costume, in Fezziwig’s Warehouse. That would be fun.
Overall, it was a very satisfying project. From Lacis I also got some patterns for a period jacket and blouse. They even carry more than one variety of crinoline. This is the straight bell shape. You can get a more rounded version, and I think next year we should do that … and add some flounces.
I am particularly pleased with the bonnet, as I never attempted such a thing before. It is all hand sewn, from buckram, wire, and outer and lining fabrics, and I did all of it in the car. (Set up the sewing machine at sister’s for the petticoat and skirt.) And, I shot some phone video updates during the process which I will attempt to incorporate into a post for posterity. Diligence, and the broadening of the skill set: that is a good New Year’s Resolution.
An Old Knitty Lady 
2 responses to “New Year’s Resolution: Diligence”
Thank you so much, Elizabeth! Colors are much richer than in the photos, and despite not being satiny or frilly (or young!), was asked to pose for pictures by fairgoers! Huzzah for authenticity!
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The whole outfit was amazing and it was fun hearing you explain how fashion changed through the different periods. We are both fully outfitted by you in those pictures!
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