Thimble Raven

Here in my final post in the favorite suppliers series, I’m going to share my favorite supplies, accessories, etc related to costuming and sewing – in no particular order!

• The 1780’s Redthreaded stays pattern // I swear this is the most flattering set of stays on everyone who wears them. It’s probably my favorite piece of corsetry I have made!
• These heat erasable pens // I use them for marking almost everything, and the lines disappear immediately when pressed with an iron. Always test on your fabric before using.
• Penny River’s cotton stockings // These are THE most comfortable stockings I own, and I have them in several colors. Seriously, nothing else comes close for me!
• The American Duchess Guide to 18th Century Dressmaking // Fantastic visual guide to how 18th century gowns are draped and constructed. Lots of gridded patterns for both gowns and accessories. You get a lot for your money in this book! I also recommend their guide to 18th century beauty, which has a ton of cap/millinery/accessory patterns and hair style how-to’s. I especially like the pattern for the silk market bonnet.
• IKEA Matilda curtains // I feel like it’s almost a right-of-passage right now to make a chemise a le reine or 1790’s round gown from these curtains, but for good reason – they are 100% cotton, beautiful, and SUPER affordable.
• Laughing Moon #126 Regency gown pattern // A super popular pattern from Laughing Moon Mercantile, and it really goes together flawlessly to make a flattering and gorgeous regency gown. The apron front style makes getting dressed by yourself very easy, too.
• Black Snail Patterns #0417 1830’s Corset and Underwear // I have made all three items from this pattern, and they’re all fantastic, especially the stays. I made mine with the trapunto/cording option, and it really isn’t as hard as it looks. They have a fantastic fit and silhouette!
• Cotton Coutil from Bias Bespoke // Used in nearly all of my corsetry projects.
• Cotton Voile from Fabric Wholesale Direct // Inexpensive, but great for ruffly aprons, fichus, sleeve ruffles, a super light chemise, etc.
• Larkspur boots from American Duchess // Super comfortable leather and wool boots that are historically appropriate for most of the 19th/early 20th century. These are my most comfortable shoes from American Duchess, and just a perfect walking boot for everything from mid regency through 1930. They also fit my wide feet quite well despite only coming in a regular width.
• Truly Victorian Sophie Mules // Versatile Georgian leather mules.
• Burnley and Trowbridge Fine Milan Straw Hats // Perfect blank slate for trimming!