How to sew an easy medieval kirtle

[@CavegirlMelanieHobby]

See, that's so funny that you had the sleeve piecing "problem", because in the intro, i saw that sleeve and went, "oh my gosh, that's SO beautiful! What a lovely choice! Pretttyyyyy" and just kept gushing for a solid 3 minutes. I loved it! And you know what? "Who would make a dress out of 2 meters? " poor people during this time period lol and they'd piece and piece and piece some more, then use the scraps for something else, too. You made me tear up, thinking about how I appreciate the beauty in simplicity and even poverty. Thank you!

[@RudesMom]

Fabric was valuable. A lot of preindustrial clothing was pieced (and then patched over the years). By piecing your sleeve you made it more authentic.

[@nachtorchis]

Agree

[@RestingBitchface7]

Jill Padelford and it’s more beautiful that way, anyway.

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Yes absolutely! Since fabric was handspun, handwoven and plantdyed, it was extremely valuable and expensive. Therefore, medieval people found a way to make clothes from an very small amount of fabric, and they could have been made just like mine, from less than 2 metres. Then they was used for several years, patched, mended, re-sewn and at the end made into rags.

[@johngalt969]

@@elinabrahamsson9442 Would you ever do an Ancestry DNA test? I'd love to see where the black curly hair comes from!

[@kestrels.9189]

@@elinabrahamsson9442 exactly, it wasn’t till we got into the early 1900 that fast fashion became a thing, with the development of weighted silk. It wasn’t made to last and couldn’t keep up with the fast changing styles either. So, dresses were worn, and usually lasted maybe 3 months, they were cheap to make after a while, and thus just tossed and replaced. ☺️

[@AbigailPoirier]

I mean...the dress is nice and all, but *look at the pretty chickens!!*

[@heatherwhitney7442]

Look at all those chickens!

[@Ja-zz2gn]

Lol it reminds me of Micarah Tewers

[@basraabdulle3526]

chickens, your talking chickens what about the girl who did perfect job on the dress. I like chickens, but now is for the dress.

[@MossyMozart]

@AbigailR84 - Yes. They look like they are healthy and happy chickens. My young nieces have chickens that they love, hug, and treat like pets. Until it is time to dispatch them, that is - then they are cold-bloodedly practical. If they were my chickens, they would have to die of old-age before being consumed. ^_^

[@rebeccawayman4219]

I was thinking about the chickens as well. I love chickens.

[@glanni]

This looks like it's the medieval costume starter item. You can simply wear it as is, or you can add different over-dresses, mantles, coats, capes, head pieces, jewelry, belts, etc. And it will always look different and fabulous. I love it, thank you for uploading 💛

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Exactly my thought! It works for everyone! both reenacts and those who do fantasy and inspired, and for both men and women 😊

[@RestingBitchface7]

Elsa Frost it’s also similar to the dresses I wear everyday. I don’t know why anyone would bother with modern fashion, because this is perfect.

[@AH-cy4md]

Yes. This is now on my to-do list of sewing projects.

[@MossyMozart]

@@RestingBitchface7 - I concurreth!

[@kitzya1354]

The piecing on the sleeve is *incredibly* historically accurate for a piece of clothing for those of lower social status - traditionally garments would be handed down to servants, or sold second hand and adjusted to the wearer, so a farmer in the 1840s might have a captain's coat from the 1750, much patched and pieced and adjusted. I have a family example from the 40s of just such work. My grandmother was given a very nice debutante-style dress of the 1920s by her employer when she got engaged, and it was pieced and adjusted by her to a more 40s style to become her wedding gown. The inserts to get the silhouette are of vastly different fabric, but placed so as to look intentional.

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

yeah exactly! first I became quite upset about the piecing, but now when I'm looking at the kirtle, I'm very glad I did it. it gives it a bit more character and feels a bit more accurate in a way. Very interesting to hear about your grandmothers dress!

[@emiliesmith9917]

@serendipidus1 People were actually normal-sized, but because smaller garments aren't worn as often (think prom dresses, wedding dresses) and people save them for sentimental reasons, we as modern people look back at extant garments and think "wow, people were so much smaller back then" when in reality only the clothes that survived were.

[@leonamay8776]

@serendipidus1 I think it also depends on income, living situation etc. My great grandmother was born in an "educated" family (her brother was a professor, one became a doctor etc) and married into a land owning family, so they always had enough food and fresh produce until ww2. I inherited one of her Sunday dresses (which she wore as a middle aged woman) and it's probably a size medium. She was shorter than I am (so the length was akward for me and I shortened it to knee length) but she definitely wasn't as tiny as some of the vintage clothes I've seen would have let me assume.

[@katherinemorelle7115]

serendipidus1 but that’s usually 21 inches corseted. And the experts (those who have the extant garments to study) have said that measurement is pretty small, even for the times. Uncorseted, those 21in waists would have been closer to 24in.... which is the size of a UK size 4 these days. And the museums holding these extant garments note that the smaller dresses (most of them measuring 24in corseted) usually belonged to “misses”. Young ladies, who hadn’t had children yet. And a 24in corseted waist is a 27-28 in uncorseted waist, and that’s a size 8 UK. Certainly not even rare today, but far more likely to occur with young women today, just as those measurements did back then. Abby Cox and Bernadette Banner both have videos on historical sizing myths on their channels, and Abby also took part in a Covovid panel about exactly that as well. The people back then were less likely to be overweight, that is absolutely true. And they were a few inches shorter. But they weren’t ridiculously tiny, and especially not when talking about waist measurements. There’s also the survivorship bias of which garments have survived - the smaller ones were less likely to be worn to rags, so they’re more likely to survive. But I have met many women today that would fit into those extant garments. Even the 21in dresses. Molly Burke (KZbinr) is the size of those dresses- she’s got a natural 24in waist. And she’s short. So even today, there are more than a few women who could fit.

[@WitchOracle]

@serendipidus1 people might not shrink for their proms but it is very common for people to be larger years after their proms and weddings. If we based average measurements of everyone today off of preserved wedding dresses, we would not have an accurate sample of the entire population. The point is that the most well preserved garments were most likely worn by much younger women and teens, which doesn't lead to accurate assumptions about the general population as a whole.

[@snyparaustralis540]

"once is a mistake, twice is jazz." -Miles Davis with the short sleeve, if you copied the 'mistake' to the other sleeve, it suddenly becomes a feature, a styling choice ;-) or, as a wood-work teacher i had used to say, "it's not a mistake, it's an opportunity for redesign".

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Aw💕

[@maike__-]

Agree! I hoped she'd do that, because I saw that seam in the beginning of the video when she pulls on the sleeves a little, and thought it looked quite lovely and the way the seams worked with the hem of the sleeve was really interesting and looked intentional and I was excited to learn how it was made and then.. 😂 well it might have been a mistake at first but it was a happy accident :) I might do it on purpose once I start working on my dress ♡

[@FlagCutie]

This is amazing! My crafty friend is always telling me that a mistake is an opportunity for creativity.

[@RestingBitchface7]

Elin Abrahamsson and don’t forget that medieval women often used seam embroidery to embellish these “mistakes!” Perfect opportunity.

[@elisabethm9655]

Yes, I also thought it was a design feature at the start...

[@TootlesTart]

1. You speak beautiful English (Swenglish) 2. I can’t get enough of your videos; they’re not too long-winded 3. You don’t have to be an “expert”. People relate better to someone approachable and real and struggling and triumphant like themselves

[@candicevee1]

I am a seamstress with 50 years experience and I love your video. You described pattern/ dressmaking in a beautifully simple way. Lovely dress....lovely girl.

[@estelledesigns]

your video production quality is amazing!! and you have such a cute personality and accent!

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Hahah that's something I didn't believed I had! Thank you!😊

[@Ceronocero]

And face

[@mandmatthews13]

Literally exactly what I thought!!!! Beautiful!!!!!

[@polkadot8788]

It's great to see you fit it on yourself. A lot of videos use dress forms or models but I'm usually trying to pin things on myself without help.

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

If I would have another person to make the kirtle on, or a dress form, I would certaninly been using it with great joy😉 but I haven't unfortunately....

[@maike__-]

It actually makes it easier for us because (from what I read in the comments) a lot of people who sew things for themselves fit stuff on themselves. So it's good to see that it is possible. Thank you for the video, it was amazing and I might feel like making one for myself once I get home from holiday and find some wool-ish fabric ♡

[@AH-cy4md]

Yes! I don’t have a dress form, and probably won’t get one anytime soon $$$$😕. It was fabulous to see you working on yourself, by yourself. 👏

[@merindymorgenson3184]

I agree! I’ve been bemoaning the lack of a dress form as I try to make a salwar-kameez set for myself and semi patterning it off a couple sets that I have that I like the fit of while simultaneously trying to make the changes that would make those outfits have fit better. My husband has learned a thing or two about my process, because as I was bemoaning my difficulties in trying to get the paper pattern right, he said, “so you’ll be making a mock-up, then.” I, who had been trying to avoid making a mockup, as I was sort of counting the previous garments as “mockups” looked at him, grimaced, and said, “guess so.” So, watching her as she fits things on herself and makes mockups is very encouraging somehow.

[@harrietlucyblack6057]

The piecing on the sleeve is actually quite cute and gives it character in my opinion

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Looking back now, I'm very glad I did that solution, I also think it, as you say, gives the kirtle a bit more character, and feels very accurate 😊

[@twodogzdogue8710]

I got scared to make the dress when I saw the process with attaching the sleeves... It'd be my luck to have puckering around the sleeves & I'd hate to ruin that beautiful wool fabric! How do you know what shape to cut the torso sleeve area? I mean the part the long S sleeves attach to the body of the dress. This would be the hardest part for me. Thankyou for making your great videos, I just found your site today after reading about Jane Shore, the English mistress of Edward IV who was sentenced to walk through the city of London barefooted, in her "underwear" - when I read more about her charge of sexual immorality around 1785, turns out she was barefoot, dressed in a kirtle & carrying a taper. (not sure what that is) I got the impression that women wore dresses over the kirtle, or maybe it was women of class & money who used the kirtle as an undergarment? Does anyone know more about this as fashion changed from one period to the next - I find it all so interesting! 💐

[@KelseyDrummer]

I agree Harriet!

[@polinaignatenkova3634]

I love how in the end showing of the garment you're running and jumping off things and rolling in the grass. It feels like a real peice of clothing instead of a costume. You brought it to life! A historical thing that people did in ye olden days! You made it alive and real. Thank you!

[@AmosAmerica]

So impressive! Real quality here. Thoughtfully edited as well. Please stop apologizing for not being an expert. We value your process as is.

[@jessicaknox4837]

It’s comforting to know that everybody, EVERYBODY, hates sleeves 😂 I wonder how this design would change for larger busts - any rectangle that fits over my chest will be an absolute tent everywhere else. Must experiment... Oh, and like so many others - here from Bernadette’s timely recommendation 😊

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Heheh yeah it's a global phenomenon😂 Hmm I understand... I am lucky (?) to have a smaller bust so that I can have a relatively close fit at the waist but at the same time be able to pull it over my bust. Wool is a remarkable material though, and I've seen people with much larger busts being able to achieve a really tight fit without any openings. So I think it's absolutely worth a try! Thank you for coming here! You're very welcome😊

[@spindelyshankz671]

Perhaps make the pattern to fit your chest but shape the side seams at the waist to nip in for the waist? I have this problem too and also I have fairly narrow shoulders

[@rs2304]

I was thinking about the big bust problem as well. My idea was to add some kind of simple lacing at the front, back or sides. I'm not sure how historical accurate that would be, or if it even would look nice, but I think it's worth thinking about.

[@ayjamay]

Yeah, I have an extremely large bust. I’m not a sewer, i used to sew b/c my mom did, but that was a long time ago. I don’t see how I’d be able to make this with out an opening or looking like a bag.

[@MajaBiana]

I've a big bust as well and thought just the same, but then there have to have been people with large busts back then like today, so openings in the front and/or the sides closed with buttons or lacing must have been the solution then...

[@TorchwoodPandP]

Love your upside down cat. And the S-sleeve instructions, which are really helpful. You also did a sensational job on dyeing your own fabric.

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Thank you! I'm so glad you liked the sleeve instructions! I was afraid it wouldn't be clear and hard to follow 😊

[@dungeondragon3580]

this is literally my favorite style of dress, and as someone who can not machine sew to save her life, I'm hopeful now. It turned out BEAUTIFUL

[@ashleatenny2719]

I, too, feel like the pieced sleeve would've been totally normal for a lower class girl of the time. I think your ingenuity helped to make a better garment in the end. Also your "Swenglish" is adorable.

[@SuperBenette]

I think its just wonderfull that the younger ones sew. Its very pretty, I think you are a lovely young lady full of surprizes, be blessed.

[@karisap]

Oh my goodness, so much work went into this. Not just the dress (all hand sewn holy cow), but the video itself too. All of the camera angles and beautiful shots must have taken so much to achieve! And then to edit them all together- just wow! Respect.

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Thank you!

[@dawn8293]

I was like “what’s wrong with piecing the sleeve? Piecing is period.” And then I remembered that you are sewing by hand, and I had flashbacks to the Victorian walking skirt that I was sewing by hand for months and I pitied you.

[@Harko-]

Not only are your videos interesting and entertaining to watch, they are also cinematic masterpieces! Thanks for putting in all the effort and sharing these!

[@Sanisgillon]

Speaking as a 12th century costume maker, this whole video brings me so much joy. You’ve got such an excellent video persona. Sub scribed!

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Aw thank you! I'm very happy you, as an 12th century reenactor, also liked itl! This kirtle is such a marvelous garment, since it also works great for that period as well.

[@daisanders82]

It looks so nice. I've always loved the simpler styles of dress. Don't get me wrong, I also love big sleeves and stuff like Bliauts, but this is something I could wear around my farm doing the chores.

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Thank you! Same here! I've always had a soft spot for simplicity and ordinary people's clothes, even if the silks, pearls and golds are beutiful. 😊

[@SunnySunflowers510]

@@elinabrahamsson9442 I dyyyye at the sights of peasants dresses!!

[@MmeLuella]

this video wasnt too long and you did not talk too much! you rock! and u swinging ur head w the veil at the end was giving me life

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

I'm so glad you thought that! Heheh veils and slowmotion are a good combination😎

[@karo1564]

And your english is excellent!!

[@LisaGrimm-LG]

Finally! The metric system! I am sooo messing up all those yards and inches)) Thank you for this video instruction, it's been suggested to me by youtube just as I was thinking about making a medieval dress))

[@MossyMozart]

@Lisa Grimm - Do not feel badly - Americas mess up yards and inches, too. We wish we could start using the metric system, like the rest of the entire globe!

[@wiseforcommonsense]

Here I am being confused with the metric system 😂 Needing to Google to see how big this is

[@annemariegodden]

This was a joy to watch. Your videography is beautiful and your explanation of how to make the kirtle was fabulous for a beginner like me. Thank you.

[@KnyghtErrant]

Fantastic video! I think you've managed to make what can be a very intimidating project for a first-timer very approachable and understandable. The final result was great!

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Thank you so much! That was my goal a little bit, but I'm very happy you thought I managed it! ☺️

[@melaniekisler8019]

Hi! Reenactor and amateur historical costumer here! This looks absolutely amazing. I've been having trouble pinning down a good understanding of a pattern for this style dress but you explained it really well, gonna save this video so I can use it when I get to work on a dress for a viking themed wedding

[@chazolina1283]

I've never seen a tutorial video that was this professional and had such a production value. Your editing is spot on. I loved this.

[@reginaromsey]

I thought that I envied you the most for you wonderful wool fabric.. Then I saw your cat. I have a small chance that 49 years of fabric collecting may yield something similar. Remember, piecing is period even for Princely garments! Check Janet Arnold! You are exceptional! I love your method of the S sleeve, closely fitted under your lair pit! Long live Nordmark!

[@hannahscarbrough5048]

Piecing is Period! Even in the upper classes. You made it MORE historically accurate :)

[@darknessfierce4209]

I made this based on your video and love it. I ended up using the hem for a scarf (I measured 6" off the ground find it easier to walk and do stairs). Great sun protection and actually cooler than wearing shorts and a t-shirt. Thanks for the video, good job

[@Mishuthlu]

This is so wonderful!! I will definitely try it out!!! Bernadette Banner brought me here, and I am NOT disappointed. Please keep on posting, it's just marvellous❤

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Thank you for coming here! And I'm so thankful you seemed to like it!😊

[@riverrun88]

What a great video. Your english is wonderful - much better than many native born speakers. The instructions, for me, are easy to follow. Being a quilter, I am used to hand sewing. Your work is just amazing . Thank you so very much for sharing!

[@randomvintagefilm273]

You are right Elin, there are so many variables when it comes to fashion. You really can't just say "A medieval dress". It varies by what decade, what country, what occasion and most importantly BUDGET!

[@lisahoshowsky4251]

How did I get here? Why am I watching this? Why do I have a sudden urge to sew a medieval kirtle? But I’m all seriousness I do sew (but never for fairs or re-enactments, yet😉) and this was a super high quality video, and it had a bonus adorable cat to boot!

[@rebeccasykes1939]

It’s so sweet that you rolled down a hill in your lovely creation! Your exuberance is catching! Please make more videos.

[@marianmorley]

I loved the sleeve piecing detail before you revealed the reason for it. It stood out as lovely unique look. And it's what they would have done if fabric was scarce and that makes it more authentic. Love your cat and chicken too. Great video.

[@lucyannethrope8359]

And oh! Great work, beautyful executed, loved it. A tip, if you want a little freedom of movement in really tight fitted, historical garments, cut the fabric bias to the thread grain and it will stretch a little without losing the tight fit, works especially good in thinner wool fabrics. Got the tip from a lovely tuareg woman in my neighbour hood.

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Thank you! To cut fabric on the bias is indeed a really good way of making the fabric, or garment, more stretchy. However, fabric was extremely expensive and valuable at this time and to cut on the bias leads to a great deal of waste. We see it in hose at this time, but in the overall clothing it would have been so fabric-consuming that it didn't really occur until several centuries later.

[@lucyannethrope8359]

Elin Abrahamsson , I know about the historical part of it. It was more of a general tip. (lessen för eventuell dålig engelska, jag är skitrostig när det kommer till att skriva / mvh genomsnittlig tant)

[@nicoledeloncrais5940]

Seriously Elin your swenglish is almost as charming as you are!!! You have done a fabulous job and I love your joy, your commitment and the GORGEOUS way this was filmed, Brilliant Tour de Force! Tres bien! Merci

[@rebekahleib9303]

Thank you for this tutorial, especially the bit about drafting an S-sleeve. Doing something more fitted than just a square sleeve has had me totally foxed for quite a while, and now I'm inspired to try making one. :) Bonus points for hand-sewing the entire thing, I've been there (did a Greenland gown), and hems go on F O R E V E R. I love your fun attitude, and also your kitty and chickens. :)

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

You're very welcome! I knew that I, myself had been greatly thankful if I had had that tutorial two years ago when I started... heheh thank you! I'm actually hemming a Greenland gown right now and I understand what you mean... I will tell Svea and the chickens! ;)

[@AnnekeOosterink]

Oh god, same! Sleeves are the bane of my existance. I always do the square sleeves or if I can get away with not adding sleeves in the traditional sense (puff sleeves, but easy, sleeveless overgowns!) I always take the easy way out. Now I have a good tutorial for how to measure yourself and draft a pattern from that. :D

[@wilfred660]

It's turned out to be a Hollywood production movie.. Love your ideas . Scenery also timeless treasure.

[@0JReynolds]

Loved you video! 😘. Beautiful gown and please don’t forget your scissors, they are outside on the chair 😂

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Don't worry! I took them inside after the shot was recorded 😉

[@gabestrobehn4698]

I love the fact you talk to us and also enjoy longer videos.. keep up the great work. You inspire me to make a dress for myself all hand sewing.. thank you

[@emilyhunt8853]

8:12 That is the fluffiest cat I've ever seen :o

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Heheh she's like more hair than cat! 😎

[@l.baughman1445]

I loved the kitty crashed on the table during the hand sewing. BIG kitty (also the Executive Producer, no doubt)

[@liesha7495]

Is it a Maine Coon or a Forrest Cat? Or just a domestic cat?

[@sissyrayself7508]

@@liesha7495 it's a Norweigan Forrest Cat. Obviously

[@pensword14]

This was such a great video, because it made me look at my piles of fabric and half-pieced attempts at medieval dresses and think "Okay, I can do it this time!" (and I loved the various animal helpers, including the very fluffy cat.)

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

You can do it!

[@eastlynburkholder3559]

Cat help is always good

[@ay-dionne]

As an absolute beginner, this video was wayyy easier to follow and understand than the other CosTubers. If I ever follow a video first it would be this one.

[@UlrikaMalmgren]

This was such a pleasure to watch. The good tutorial, charming style, beautiful landscapes, comfort that others struggle with sleeves, animals, inspiring music, gorgeous dress... everything was on point!

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Aw! Just what I wanted to hear! Thank you😊

[@karatepop]

Yesss! I love the lace and the style and the details of the well-to-do Edwardians , but I have always been more interested in the clothing of the poorer classes (possibly because I am a bit of a classist with a serious mistrust of the wealthy). I was just looking into kirtles as I like the simplicity, but also that they can be built upon (hello, proper tie-on pockets). Once I no longer have a baby attached to my breast, it's hello kirtle for me!

[@elisabethm9655]

karatepop There are lots of manuscript images with glorious laced bodices for nursing your little one. This posting’s beautiful golden gown is a maiden’s kirtle, which of course had no such needs. Images of Mary with the babe often have the details pictured to show the proper practical bodice lacings ... good luck!

[@NormieNeko]

I understand. I'm interested in the lower classes because almost all of our ancestors (of most of us) were from the lower class. Some were even serfs or slaves, and a lucky few may have been middle class (not much of a social class until the 20th century). I want to envision how the majority lived. It's more realistic. Life was very agricultural. City life was hell for the lower class. They existed though, and they got dressed every day. I think they deserve that attention at least.

[@achanwahn]

For anyone watching, you sew the sleeves before sewing up the sides. Sew from the wrist to the bottom of the dress. I learned this the hard way. Hope it helps someone else

[@maryannefitzgerald9191]

This looks like the perfect place to start and just they type of dress I was looking for. It seems simple enough for someone just starting out sewing historical dresses. I love that you did the research to get it right historically. I have found that my family history dates back to the middle ages and I also have Viking ancestors. Sewing dresses that are historically correct is very important to me. I thought your presentation was lovely. I love your enthusiasm and sense of humor, it really kept me engaged and made me want to watch it till the end to see that final result. Thank you so much for sharing this little piece of your life with us!

[@kirstenmcintosh5899]

This video is perfect, thank you! I've been looking to recreate Eowyn's blue dress from the battle of Helms Deep, but hadn't found a pattern I was satisfied with. Yor tutorial is just what I was looking for.

[@sarahisavampire]

Kirsten McIntosh OOOOOOOOO!!!! That would be marvelous!!!!

[@emilywelsh5359]

Oh my gosh. I cannot tell you how perfect this video was! I was looking for a beginner medieval dress and I love how you just measured the pattern!! I am so excited to try making one of my own, thank you for sharing this project. You are lovely!

[@d.tasker4486]

I've been so scared to venture into gored dresses and skirts but you made it so accessible! Now I'm trying to think of a medieval Halloween costume as an excuse to make this! And I'm filled with ideas on how to make a sexy modern evening gown using this pattern as a jumping point 😈

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Hahah I've never thought that way, but it would be so fun! You should definetly do that😏😎

[@vivalafrance9547]

Really Cool. Love your thinking process. I hand made a costume before and the underarm area was too tight. so you splice in more pieces of fabric. Your English is perfectly fine. We appreciate you.

[@annetteleggett9854]

Wonderful job on your kirtle. Don’t feel bad about the sleeves, I did a period piece once and had to redo the sleeves 5 times 😆

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

hahahah ooh I feel you!

[@abby520]

i’ve watched this video over so many times as i’m making my merida dress, ITS SO HELPFUL THANK YOU

[@mariemakesstuff]

Thank you for posting such a clear demonstration of your construction process! I have been long wanting to dip my toes into medieval costuming (I have a degree in medieval studies and have done plenty of period cooking and baking, but have never done any historical sewing!) and this video makes it really accessible. Thank you!!

[@IonIsFalling7217]

The pieced sleeves are one of my favorite details! Beautiful! Plus don’t you dare make fun of your English. It’s incredible and I can’t even imagine making such beautiful and eloquent videos in a second language!

[@samanthakessel7285]

Also to shape or "tailor" a garment, if you put it on inside out, then you can access the seams easier.

[@mausandthimble]

This is the most EPIC sewing video I have ever seen! I got only 2 minutes in and I HAD to subscribe (and the video just got even better from there)! What an amazing cinematic and thoroughly educational tutorial! Well done and thank you, Elin Abrahamsson! I will definitely stay tuned for more sewing ADVENTURES, this truly was one! ~Darla

[@sarahmarin3203]

The editing of this video is beautiful and you have a lovely personality for the camera. I love 14th century styles and I may finally learn to sew so I can try this pattern out!

[@brumbybailey6599]

Awwww, your chookies(Aussie slang for chicken) are so cute! That's so cool that you hand dyed your material! I just ordered woad and indigo seeds so I can hopefully try it on the wool from my sheep. The videography is beautiful! My attention never lagged, so not too long. And your accent is pleasant to me. So 👍

[@canadiannavywife434]

So well done. Huzza. I am so happy to be watching your video. I quite enjoy your honesty and youthfulness. Your English is wonderful and you are very eloquent. I too, love to dye fabrics and have been able to research many colours...even HOT PINK, or LIME GREEN.... that were used in Medieval times. Hugs from Halifax

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

I knooow, plant dyeing is the best!

[@NuEqualsLambdaEf]

Your filming style is SO FUN

[@Mrsadams1]

Wow. Great video! I saw your link from Instagram, and am not disappointed. Very clear instructions, very simple design, and you have a very comfortable teaching style. Beautiful location, too. I am a domestic historian and a historical seamstress/costumer, and I think you’ve done an excellent job. I can’t wait to see more :)

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

This is such a compliment to me! Thank you! I'm so glad you thought this way😊

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

This is such a compliment to me! Thank you! I'm so glad you thought this way😊

[@marg4229]

Finally! A talented and interesting young woman whose videos are worth watching.

[@shirleyedhel6010]

I loved the video. Congratulations and thank you very much. Although Brazil does not have a medieval history, I love everything about that time. Hugs from Brazil.

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

I'm so glad you did! Yes the Middle Ages is a very interesting period, both regarding the clothing but also the whole society :)

[@cherylkruisheer3365]

As a hand sewer boy do I appreciate what you have accomplished. Very nice!

[@HarryP457]

This is excellent. A super easy starter pattern that can be built on. From this you could split the sleeves and add buttons, do the same to the front of the dress with buttons or lacing. Love it, thanks for posting.

[@afjordable]

I'm so glad there is another person making historical costuming videos! It was wonderful. Please make more!

[@AddriBlack]

I was excited when you posted, and then got even more excited when I saw your video got shouted out by Bernadette. This looks amazing, and I'm really looking forward to your future videos!

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Thank you for coming here and watching! You're very welcome😊

[@megongaga1984]

I would die for that cat! So fluffy 😍😍😍 I also can't wait to sew my own kirtle!

[@Greye13]

Your dress has turned out lovely. Everything you've made is so well done, and I absolutely love the shade of yellow you dyed your dress. The style really is very versatile. Here's wishing you many more happy re-enactments. Oh, and don't you worry about your "Swenglish", you're doing just fine. :)

[@VerdeFlowerCo]

I can not think of another video that has brought me more joy or a sense of calm than this. Your style is stunning, your English is BRILLIANT (and you should never worry about that ever), your choice of fabric, your research, the music... everything about it was utterly gorgeous. I really hope you continue to make videos like this. What a treat!

[@HomeWithMyBookshelf]

I love this video! So pretty, and also useful! And I love the footage of the dress in the beautiful Swedish forest!

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Hahah me running around in a kirtle and veil in the middle of the forest was certainly a...interesting sight. Poor animals😂 Thank you though! I'm very glad you liked the video!

[@CookbooksonRepeat]

As a former theater costumer, I’m so impressed with your seeing skills!! I’m also amazed at how you can fit it on yourself and pin pieces while they are ON your body. Wow!! Nice work!

[@Windress]

I'm in love with this tutorial! It's such a beautiful video on it's own, but I also find it will be a really valuable resource to anyone who wants an excellent "base" starting dress for their sewing projects! I myself cannot wait to give this pattern a try, and I'm considering doing it in a stretch jersey or cotton knit. This is both because the stretch means it'll be very forgiving in fit when I'm sewing, and because I live in Texas, where it's so hot that wearing wool is extremely unpleasant!! Fortunately, I am not too troubled by ignoring historical accuracy! :D Also, thank you for including the moments of the video where things did not go according to your plan, or you suffered some frustration. I think many aspiring sewers can get discouraged when they watch videos of a project that seems "so easy," but then feel it all goes wrong when they try to create it themselves. You demonstrate how often a sewer must adapt and be patient, and that it wonderful. Thank you again for the video! I look forward to watching more!

[@ragnkja]

Windress Wool can be worn in hot weather, but only if it’s 100% pure wool. Mix in synthetic fibre and you’ve got yourself a wearable sauna instead of the light, breathable garment it should have been.

[@philiparny3178]

For someone just picking up sewing again after many years, this was fun to watch. I especially enjoyed watching you build the patterns off your own body rather than working off someone else's pattern. Great stuff for me, who's a bit too pattern bound. Thanks!

[@Izzy-kh6iu]

So glad that I saw this video in my recommendations. I can always use more sewing videos. This is such good quality, especially for a KZbinr early in her career.

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Aw! This makes me so happy to read, thank you!

[@judithpatrick2207]

What a spot on production..Brilliant color choice for your creation. Hand stitching I love to do when I need a little calm in the storm..Thankyou

[@marthamay4385]

wow! the quality of the sewing and editing is beautiful. I'm ecstatic there's another young historical sewer on youtube (or the planet). keep up the good work you've inspired me🤩.

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Aw, Im so glad I do💕

[@tigerm0th]

you are so talented! the tutorial is easy to follow, the video so beautifully filmed and edited, AND the dress looks lovely!

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Aaw thank you! I really hoped it was, so many things to remember while filming this, but I'm very happy you thought it was usable😊

[@ec751]

wow, i mean... what an amazing piece of work, video and all. incredibly inspiring and pairs beautifully with a bubble bath. much appreciation.

[@findingforests]

I didn't think a sewing video could be this epic and fun! :D It looks great!

[@TheCashhawk]

I was captivated through the entire video. I could listen to you and watch you hand sew all day. Thank you for putting this on the internet.

[@carolgemberling1520]

You are amazing, keep it up! Your English is awesome! I should know. I teach 6th grade English in the USA. You speak more clearly than some of my students! You are so talented. I can't wait to see what you will do next!❤ from🇺🇸

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Hahah that's very comforting to hear😁 Thank you!

[@katelynreinert3090]

I’m a historian very interested in historical reproduction but have never actually sewn anything before (just a little embroidery) and it’s made me nervous to start my first project. Your video was EXTREMELY helpful and has inspired me to finally take the first step! Great vid :)

[@Wildes.Pinselwerk]

This is literally one of the best video's I've seen lately! The quality is amazing! You're very skilled at sewing, filming and editing! Wow! So so good...

[@Elizabeth-po1bv]

Please don’t worry about your English. You’re doing great!!!

[@mmw55122]

Agree! As a native English speaker, I thought your English was lovely and totally clear!

[@bonniecolleenpappin8807]

Oh, I wish there was a love button! Beautiful everything, and loved the Swinglish.

[@theresamunch318]

Very nice tutorial! You have really motivated me doing this kirtle as a sewing project this weekend! We‘ll see how it turns out using linnen fabric instead of wool... all the time watching this video you‘ve reminded me to someone. Now I know! Arya Stark from GoT!

[@Yasmine2973]

I wanted shout how cute your cat was(and he/she still is) but then i saw your CHICKENS! They are soooo lovley!

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

Hahahah they never leave me alone😂 But luckily for them, they're super cute😍

[@heatherjosvlog]

Thank you Bernadette for posting about this wonderful video! I have been down a rabbit hole of watching historical sewing videos for awhile and getting up the courage to finally pick up my own needle and thread. I think I've settled on making this for mu daughter! She is the only one in our family that doesnt have a costume for our yearly festival. I have about a month to get it done so 🤞

[@TreiaSaint]

This. Is. Gorgeous. You, the dress, the relatability, everything. Keep it up. I was in such a grouchy mood and just happened upon your video I’m feeling better. Thank you so much for this.

[@esoraleak]

I loved the video not just for the sewing, but for the sheer artistry of the filming, editing, and music. Wow!

[@sewmanyhobbies942]

Holy smokes, your editing 🙌 hope you had a lot of fun at the faire!

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

I did! Thank you😊 I'm glad you liked the video!

[@snakesonaplanerox]

Not too long, your English is fantastic, and somehow you've tempted me to sew one. It just looks so simple and nice and like I could get a lovely office dress out of it. How dare you.

[@paulina8864]

This video is so good! I have many late 14th century dresses (over ten years re-enactment experience) but I have never tried this exact pattern and now I want to try it so bad! You look so wonderful in this kirtle and can I just say the place you live in... magical :)

[@elinabrahamsson9442]

I'm so glad the video inspired you! I'm very, very thankful for living in the place I'm living in. It's so very beautiful😊

[@sumalyachakraborty7023]

major Outlander vibes.... LOVE IT