[MR] Garb Weekends Suggestion

[Shari Damkier]

Your idea for a challenge sounds fun...  I see LOTS of possibilities here
for our kingdom...

I'm enclosing a simple suggestion that we have tried and not only is it fun,
but we get a lot done. I'm sure we aren't the first to do this. I'd love to
hear what others have done in a similar fashion. Be great for another
adventure for our group... I'm thinking a chair/table covering weekend
coming up....

Our Cove has taken to having what we call garb weekends. Its a time when the
more experienced come together and help the newbies learn to sew their own
garb. The first night (Thursday) we start 'em out at the store and help them
learn about fabrics and colors. We then buy some fabric and accessories they
will need. We also look at camping things, feast gear on a budget, etc.

Friday night, we begin with "this is a sewing machine" and then on to how to
make a pouch (complete with discussion on how to hide our coffee thermos,
our coolers and other simple mundane things). If there is time, we start
cutting tunics, etc.

Saturday we work on the very basic T-tunic (dress or shirt). It is a very
easy beginner project with simple instructions and basic sewing skills
needed. Saturday  night, we make the cape/cloak and finish up our projects.

Sunday for Fighter Practice, everyone has a whole new set of garb and we
have some newbies who now feel "good" about what they have accomplished and
also have their own garb to wear.

We have done this twice now with the second weekend being chemise, puffy
pants and skirt (similar skills learned). We didn't use any purchased
pattern (limited confusion and frustrations). But we did get our newbies
garbed and they have a skill to go on and make their own designs. Its also a
GREAT time to learn about each other, relax and tell stories... Its a time
to learn about SCA and how to make an attempt at period on a budget. And its
a time to just be a family....