Here comes the lady with the alligator purse.

A few weeks ago, my mother and I went to a vintage textile show and I came away with two amazing scores. The first is a vintage handbag with *gasp* a real alligator! The only flaw is an easily fixed strap, and it'll be ready to wear.

The second is a pair of vintage frames. My mother plonked these on my face and I've loved them ever since!

Next time: a new challenge!

HSF '13 #7: A Not-Quite-Easter Bonnet.

Well, spring has sprung, Mr. G has survived the opening weekend of Faire, and this fortnight's theme is Tops and Toes, a challenge after my own heart! Not only did I get to make a tall hat to go with my later 1880's gear, but I actually have construction pictures!

I found this old straw hat in the garage and separated the crown from the brim, leaving a little lip so that the modified crown could be sewn back on. 

I made a base for the new crown out of sinamay and started unraveling the crown. After ripping a few rows off it, I left the brim in a sink full of hot water for an hour or two.

While the brim was soaking, I sewed the braid of the crown to the sinamay base. I then reattached the brim, and pinned it into shape overnight. Add some ribbon and flowers, and voila! Instant hat!

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The Challenge: Tops and Toes

Fabric: Um, sinamay?

Pattern: Nope

Year: 1880's

Notions: Thread, ribbon, and flowers

How historically accurate is it? Completely hand sewn

Hours to complete: About a day and a half

First worn: Not yet

Total cost: Free

HSF '14 #6: One dancing princess, worn out shoes sold separately.

 This fortnight's challenge is fairytale. One of my favorite stories growing up was the Twelve Dancing Princesses, and since most of the costumes I make get worn to balls, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to make a bodice for the Pink Eugenie skirt. 

I had a little better lighting than the last time I tried to photograph this dress, so the color is much closer to real life. I have more of this pink silk, and I might make a day bodice to go with it.

And Esca, adding the finishing touches

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With each post or photo be sure to give your item a name/title and tell us:

The Challenge: Fairytale

Fabric: Pink silk dupioni

Pattern: Original

Year: 1850's

Notions: Thread, embroidered lace

How historically accurate is it? Machine sewn

Hours to complete: Half a week

First worn: Not yet

Total cost: Free