Happy Birthday Colt .45

On Tuesday it will be the 100th birthday of the Colt .45-- my father, an antique weapons enthusiast has informed me of this. His influence has already lead to the creation of my most popular fragrance, "Rifle Range"-- available in Soap and also Solid Cologne.
In honor of this anniversary I will be putting those items on sale in my shop on Monday and Tuesday. Although the Colt .45 was for military use and didn't use the black powder charge, Colt did produce some single shot cowboy pistols that did. I think it will be a fun thing to do in the spirit of the occasion anyway.
So look for the discount early this coming week!

A Word About Historical Accuracy...

It's hard to find fabrics that are historically accurate or at least reasonably close that aren't incredibly high priced. Lately, the best I've found is actually in the "Home Decor" section. That is where I find the most natural fiber and classically printed fabric. The fashion section of the fabric store seems to to be mostly spandex, sequins, bold prints and poly blends.
I suppose I should also be more mindful taking down the serial numbers and the companies that create the fabrics I especially like, it's so hard to find them again once I've used them up. Unfortunately, I find myself in a difficult position with the fabric I made the Country Maid chemise and blouse out of- it was made from some fabric a friend gave me, so I have no idea of where or when she got it or who makes it. I'm starting to run low on it now, but I adore it. It has a beautiful texture and a nice natural color.
My quest to find more must now begin...

New Sewing Project Photos

Above: Molly Pitcher Carry All Bag, made from toile print cotton with a cream colored strap and an antique bone button closure. I just listed this one on Etsy, I love this bag, it's so cute and it's a great size.
Above: Black Satin Lady Floor Length Skirt. A simple black satin skirt with a drawstring waist, perfect for any costume or evening wardrobe. Also just listed on Etsy.
Above: Green Rose Upcycled Tote Bag. Not yet listed on Etsy, but my favorite Upcycle project so far. Every piece was harvested from one (very loud) skirt, but I think that it's much better suited to its new role as a tote.
I have been keeping busy! This weekend I will be experimenting with some new soap recipes, I'll record my progress.

A few words about Chain Maille...

I used to work at a Renaissance Faire, but had to give it up in leui of adult responsibilities. Still, I love the culture and styles and try to vistit at least one or two faires every year.
So lately I've been experimenting with a chain maille style jewelry. Several vendors at the faire sold jewelry that used the basic principal of interlocking llinks, ranging in their degree of similarity to actual armor. Many people I've spoken to like the idea and think it's very intruiging, but are hesitant to actually try and sport some of the very intricate, armor like pieces. The pieces I've been making are very light and usually consist of a single strand of links that have decorative layering spread throughout it with beads or pearls. (One such necklace is pictured a few posts down, the bracelets are very hard to photograph I've found.)
However, I've been looking at various link configurations and have been thinking of doing something a little more authentic. Though this might be cheating, I've been buying my links from an adorable old man I know who sells jewelry making supplies. I've been too busy to actually sit down and make a batch of links, to make sturdy, even ones, the method I've read usually encourages a hot process for the metal, which can be delicate and dangerous work.
So, I'm going to pick up some more links today. I'll record my progress here.