A view inside the finished 18th century pocket hoop. I still need to make the other one, and attach them to a waistband.
A few days ago I started hand sewing my 18th century pocket hoops. I’m using the pattern from Corsets and Crinolines by Norah Waugh. I have one of the pocket hoops finished so far and am about to start the other one. It’s hard to tell at the moment how they’ll work out. I’m sure they’ll be just fine, but I’m looking forward to seeing how they are especially with several petticoats over them.
Why I’m hand sewing the pocket hoops
I decided to use hand sewing because it’s been difficult to move furniture around so I can get to my sewing machine. I also wasn’t in the mood to clean the machine, and although it takes much longer to sew by hand, I enjoy sitting on the couch while I sew.
I fixed up an old art bin (it reminds me of a tackle box) with most of my sewing stuff, so it really makes it easier to just grab what I need and sit down to sew. I’m also looking forward to any sewing or embroidery parties my friends might have. With all of the embroidery supplies added, the box is a little packed so I might have to move everything into a better container.
The embroidery frame arrived!
I also received the scrolling embroidery lap frame I ordered from Joann Fabrics. I haven’t had a chance to use it yet, but I already love it! It’s been hard to focus on the pocket hoops because I keep looking at the frame (which is sitting on my sewing machine table).
Christopher helped me pick up some much needed supplies, especially embroidery floss. I had a hard time deciding on colors for one part which needed a lot of different greens. We ended up buying a lot more than I planned — but can you really have too many greens?
My next project after the pocket hoops
I’ll start getting the hanging pockets ready for embroidering once I’m finished with the pocket hoops. I’m so excited to give it a try! It won’t be a very 18th century design, but it’s one I wanted to do for the first time at least. After that, I’ll try to look more at authentic designs and practice those. They look like they’ll be a lot of fun!
Unless something happens and I end up hating embroidery for some reason, I can really see some of it being such a great way to pass the time when I’m caught up on other sewing projects or needing a break.
Below are two photos of my embroidery frame:
My new scrolling embroidery lap frame.
All the supported garments amaze me.
“Hey, let’s take reeds and reinforce this corset thingy…”
“I know, let’s make a metal connector for this corset thingy…”
“How about we create even more shape by putting pieces of metal in our undergarments and pile on petticoats…”
I think it’s great that you need some of the same tools people who cut steel need, just to make a gown! 😉
That pocket hoops are cool. I know it’s a basic shape with a whole lotta work thrown in, but they’re just neat! Not that you’ll carry anything in them, but it’s good to know you CAN carry stuff in them…and big things at that!
Very cool 🙂