Mina Harker: Purple Victorian Ball Gown
Originally I intended for this to be a Hallowe'en costume, but it sort of grew in the making. (Someone suggested I be a vampire for Hallowe'…
Black Silk Victorian Ball Gown — Commission
I have made this dress diary as detailed as possible in hopes that it will be helpful for someone else attempting this (fairly difficult) pa…
Brown Tudor Gown — Complete Construction Diary
This page has a detailed journal of the construction of this costume. If you just want to see photos of the finished product, go to the Brow…
Five Attempts: Victorian Civil War Corsets
I've been working with Simplicity 9769, Civil War Undergarments. It took me five attempts before I got a corset that fit well and was sturdy…
Civil War Day Dress — Construction Diary
This is one of those projects that kept getting set on the back burner in favor of something else, so it took forever. I started in 2007, wi…
Yankee Union Uniform — Construction Diary
For more photos of this costume go to the Union Army Uniform page.…
Fergie Wedding Gown — Dress Diary
For more photos of this costume go to the Fergie Wedding Gown page.…
1980s Vampire Prom Queen — Dress Diary
This dress was a special order. I drafted the pattern.…
Recommended Sewing Books & Library
James, Chris. The Complete Serger Handbook (ISBN 0806998067) Musheno, Elizabeth J. Sewing Big (ISBN 0442219075 ) Singer Complete Photo Guide…
Recommended Sewing Books & Library
Heidi's personal reading list — the books that shaped her approach to costuming and historical sewing.
More dress diaries in progress! If you'd like construction details for a specific costume, get in touch.