Holiday Break Projects

I worked on several projects over the holiday break, but wanted to share two "test" patterns I've been trying out.  They are both Birka inspired and I wanted to practice with them before trying out brocading for future A&S competitions.  The red/black/white will likely be used as coat trim and the black/white will be used on an apron dress posted later. 

Both patterns are more challenging than I normally attempt, but I've figured on the best way for me to track each pattern line is to simply check off my turns with a pencil.  These have several forward and backwards turns of individual cards for each step.  They look really pretty though, don't they?  

Patterns for both of these (and all the other examples in this post) can be found on: https://www.pinterest.com/kiserai/viking-tablet-weaving-patterns/

I also made a speedy trim to match one I created for my boyfriend's tunic.  This trim is a simple forward and backwards pattern where all the tablets are turned at the same time.  His has a few more border cards, but other than that, they are identical. I thought it might be nice to go to events with some matching garb, so I made it a priority to crank it out and hand sew it on our garments.  I had never hand sewn trim on garb before, so it was a learning experience.  I used a simple whip stitch my mom taught me and hoped for the best.  I think it turned out alright!

Underdress neckline

Underdress cuffs

Tunic neckline

Tunic cuffs

I also sewed a small panel of accent trim onto my apron dresses.  I don't have apron panels yet, so I thought this would be a nice way of dressing up my garments until I make some.  I've seen it on a couple of peoples' outfits online - I'm not sure it is period, but I'm going with it because it is cool (that's always a good reason, right??).  I used some fancier trim I've made (see above) to do the accents.  I ended up machine sewing the panels on, but I plan on covering it up with some embroidery.  I prefer to machine sew pieces like that because I tend to wash my garments a lot and want them to hold up.  I think that's okay because I really don't have very many outfits right now!

My brother was also very kind and gifted me some silk!  These are all new colors and I can't wait to try some of them out - stay tuned.