Sewing a Medieval Tunic / Kirtle
April 25 @ 12:00 pm – April 26 @ 5:00 pm
In this workshop, each participant will ultimately construct either a fourteenth-century tunic or kirtle for themselves. We will begin by drafting out a pattern for a man’s tunic or a woman’s kirtle/cote, applying the documented medieval philosophy of using only squares, triangles, and rectangles for the pattern pieces to conserve time-intensive woven cloth. This construction style produces little-to-no fabric waste and garments that are well constructed with a comfortable fit. NOTE: You will need to supply your own fabric. See the bottom of the description for details.
We will utilize some modern sewing machine stitching and finish with hand sewing using stitches from the fourteenth century. This will give your garment an outside appearance of having being entirely hand sewn. It is recommended that participants be familiar with using a sewing machine and hand stitching.
The workshop will provide needles and thread for handsewing and modern sewing machines for sewing seams. Necessary tools to complete all tasks EXCEPT FABRIC will be available for participants use. Worksheets and documents regarding construction techniques are provided along with the assistance and counsel of a seasoned seamstress. All documents will be included for each participant to take home with them for reference.
The workshop will be limited to 6 participants, and will be held in the Craftersʻ Hall at Camlann Medieval Village. Because of the workshop’s length, you are welcome to bring a personal lunch or snacks. Any food brought can be consumed outside in the Village Square or in the restaurant.
NOTE: You will need to supply your own fabric:
FABRIC FOR MEN’S CLOTHING: 3 ½ yds 60” wide linen for shert (shirt) + 3 ½ yds 60” wide wool flannel for tunic (size M). Add ½ yd if you are a size larger than M or if you are over 6′.
FABRIC FOR WOMEN’S CLOTHING: 4 yds 60” wide linen for chemise, 4 yds 60” wide wool flannel for kirtle. Subtract ½ yd from each if you are smaller than 5’4″. For parti color (two colors), you will need 2 ¼ yds 60”wide of each color. For a surcote, 3 yds 60” wide ; contact ‘Iwalani Christian upon registration for more details.