A Glimpse Back in Time

by Marcy Singer from WICKED STITCH by Amanda Lee

Don't you love getting a glimpse of a bygone era? I once visited a living history museum where the cabins and barns were as they had been in 1791. There were demonstrations of weaving and cooking techniques. And the garden contained plants used for medicinal, culinary, and dye purposes. It was so interesting to get a sense of stepping back in time.

Since Tallulah Falls is going to be home to a Renaissance Faire for two weeks, I plan on setting up a booth showcasing some items from my embroidery specialty shop, the Seven-Year Stitch. Blackwork embroidery (like that on this beautiful gown) was popular during the Renaissance period, so I've been making blackwork shirts, collars, and cuffs. I also have some free blackwork patterns to hand out at my booth, and I'm selling pattern books and flosses.

My mom is a Hollywood costume designer, so she sent me some patterns for my Renaissance outfits. I've made a green noblewoman's gown (because it was so beautiful I couldn't resist) and a couple of merchant outfits. I even have my mannequin Jill outfitted for the occasion in a blue Juliet-type gown complete with the headpiece and veil.

I'm really looking forward to this event and to getting to play dress-up for two weeks. I just hope that Nellie Davis--my adversarial neighbor who owns the aromatherapy shop--won't cause any trouble.

How about you? If you could visit a different era and place, when and where you like to go?

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WICKED STITCH will be released on April 7, 2015. Learn more about the book and upcoming blog tour at http://www.gayletrent.com. Also, check out the WICKED STITCH Pinterest board!