Tag Archives: pattern

Dorothea’s Pleatwork Hemd Smock with Cord Tufts and Tassels: Pattern & Gathering Tutorial — Part 1

When I began my adventure down the rabbit hole to 16th century Germany, the first image that really captured my interest was Dorothea Meyer in her 1515 painting by Hans Holbein. Her intricately pleated hemd (smock/shirt) with the little tufts and tassels was just fascinating to me. I set out then to learn how to pleat linen (what we mundanely… (more…)

Cranach Saxon Court Gown: Pattern, Materials, and Construction Notes

The lovely 16th century Saxon court gowns, made popular by Lucas Cranach, his son, and his workshop, are a study in feminine charms. They are curvy and luxurious, emphasizing the swell of the breasts, flattening the midriff, and creating gracious, flowing lines to the ground. The Saxon court gown is also one of the more complicated German styles to create,… (more…)

German Woolen Hosen of the 16th Century: Source Images and Pattern Ideas

Among the many other bits of attire appropriate to a German male of the 16th century you’ll find a good pair of woolen hosen (pants). I’ve actually been trying to make a pair of good hosen since April. My first pair, which were based off a Reconstructing History pattern and “draped” to my guy’s leg, looked “ok” but promptly ripped… (more…)

Draping a Lederwams: Step-by-step photos of draping and pattern drafting a leather vest (ledergoller)

It’s time to pattern a Lederwams (German leather vest) by draping it on a real person! My son gets to be my guinea pig because I want to make him one and because he’s available! (Note: I don’t recommend you use a young child unless you have no other choice — kids don’t like to stand still!) So what is… (more…)

16th Century German Tabards … Plus a Tabard Pattern!

A new member of my group recently asked how to make a tabard. This got me thinking. The tabards I’ve made have been pretty generic, as many others who came before me have already done a good job of covering tabard construction throughout history. I’m fond of the tabard pattern I use — it’s adapted from Duke Dag’s design, and… (more…)