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Royal Threads: Dressing for Execution- Garments worn by King Charles I
“Cloth Against the Cold”: A Critical Analysis of the Garments Allegedly Worn by King Charles I at His Execution Let me have a shirt on more than ordinary, by reason the season is so sharp as probably may make me shake, which some observers will imagine proceeds from fear... I fear not death! - Memoirs...Continue reading→
Royal Threads: Dressing an Imprisoned King
"...in a makeshift dock in the middle of the hall, the magnetic object of all eyes, a solitary figure in black, but for the brilliant blue and silver of the Star and Garter- the king"1 The year is 1647. With the Civil Wars and the rising Commonwealth, fashion no longer simply functions as a medium...Continue reading→
Linen Unravelled: 5 Fascinating Historical Facts About Linen Fabric
Linen, a textile derived from the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum), is often associated with ancient civilisations. Similarly, today it is synonymous with minimalist fashion, and sustainable design. From the tombs of pharaohs to today’s capsule wardrobes, linen has woven itself into cultural significance, not only as a symbol of purity and prestige, but for weaving...Continue reading→
Why it has to be Linen for Historical Reenactment Wear
If you're passionate about historical reenactment, then you already know that authenticity is everything. From the cut of a tunic to the type of buttons used, every detail counts. One of the most important—and often debated—choices in historical reenactment clothing is the fabrics used to create the garments.Continue reading→
Wool in Medieval Britain, Part 1: Sheep
During the medieval period the characteristics of sheep were driven by commercial factors. Sheep breeds common of the medieval period are all considered rare breeds today due to the gains in popularity of the ‘more superior’ Merino sheep breeds that emerged from Spain during the late 16th and early 17th Centuries.Continue reading→
Wool in the Viking Era, Part 3: Dyes & Dyeing
From the wealth of archaeological evidence in textile fragments and other finds, we can say that the Viking Age was a colourful period in woollen textiles. I refer to woollen textiles here as plant-based textiles such as flax and hemp linens are extremely rare finds due to their faster and easier decomposition.Continue reading→