Passing of the scissors
We are pleased to announce the sale of the Larkin & Smith pattern line and At the Sign of the Golden Scissors sutlery to Emily Stringham of Emily's Vintage Visions. We had decided to sell the pattern line a while ago but wanted to make sure that it would stay “in the family” and be in capable hands. Emily has taken almost every workshop we ever offered and is a skilled seamstress and accomplished historical researcher. We can’t imagine a finer person to have sold the business to.
- Hallie and Steph
Pattern Restock News!
We're working hard behind the scenes to get get all your favorite Larkin & Smith patterns back in print. It's taking a bit longer than originally planned and we thank you for your patience. Please watch our website and social media pages for updates.
The New Owner
At the Sign of the Golden Scissors was founded by independent 18th century clothing researchers, Hallie Larkin and Stephanie Smith. For a number of years, Larkin & Smith have provided the living history community with trusted research and the highest quality, historically accurate sewing patterns for recreating 18th century clothing and accessories. Together they generously shared their knowledge and skills through a wide variety of workshops, lectures and demonstrations. Their hard work has allowed numerous people, myself included, to expand their own knowledge and understanding of 18th century clothing and its construction. The Larkin & Smith pattern line includes patterns and instructions for recreating 18th century stays, gowns, shifts, men's shirts, caps and other accessories such as bonnets aprons, quilted petticoats and crewel embroidered pockets. In August of 2021, Hallie and Stephanie sold the business to explore new ventures.
Over the years I have had the opportunity to work with many wonderful mentors in the living history community, including Hallie and Stephanie. Their collective knowledge shared through hands-on and online workshops, various publications and conversations have helped guide me in my own sewing and living history endeavors. I am grateful for the support and guidance from so many who have encouraged me to continue improving my skills, to chase those "rabbit holes" of research, and to forever enjoy the creative process. The wonderful thing about studying historical clothing is that there is always something new to learn.
Please know that I am committed to offering the same high-quality products customers have come to know and trust from At the Sign of the Golden Scissors.
I am both honored and humbled by the opportunity to continue the Larkin & Smith pattern line and hope that you will honor me with your support.
Thank you,
Emily Stringham
Who we are
At the Sign of the Golden Scissors our goal is to provide the most accurate patterns and goods for the 18th century living historian and re-enactor, whether on the field or in a museum setting. The Larkin & Smith patterns are the result of years of reenacting, research, and teaching by Hallie Larkin and Stephanie Smith. Patterns and kits are suitable for beginners to advanced sewers, with something to offer every person at every skill level.
Enjoy the creative process
Will most people notice that your shift and stays are entirely hand sewn? That you created the tiniest rolled hems known to mankind on your delicate linen cap? Maybe not, but that doesn't mean you can't take the time to develop those skills and to enjoy every part of the creative process as you build or expand your historical wardrobe. Learn new techniques! Sharpen those skills! And above all, have fun!
