Reconstructing History RH017

This is review of RH017, 14th Century Kirtle or Cotehardie. (Link to buy this patten at the end) I ordered it to make a new dress for the 2015 Medieval Fair of Norman. I had been playing a princess for many years, but decided on changing it up this year. I wanted to be a Bard, a poet/singer/general performer. Naturally, I could not wear the Princess gowns of years past.

It came in a timely fashion. I knew it had a booklet of historical notes, I didn't know it was going to come with a textbook! Seriously, this booklet is 15 pages long (including historical notes, bibliography, actual construction, and a section on period stiches) and is in an easy to digest format. The pattern is on regular paper, not the usual tissue paper, which I appreciated.

I had trouble with setting the sleeves, but it was my own fault. I made it oversized purposefully to adjust down to my exact size, and didn't quite adjust the sleeves to match correctly the first time. My own fault. I will post a seperate blog on the gown itself later, but here are a couple quick shots.

Full length pic

Close up of the spiral lacing. I really do plan to cover them this year.

I probably will buy from Reconstructing History again. They have a huge variety of patterns from different time periods. I have my eye on a couple more medieval patterns, and I love some of their vintage style patterns from the 1940's to the 1960's also.

Reconstructing History 017

Thanks for reading, and we'll see you next time :-)

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