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Our next English Gown workshop is coming up soon and one of the main questions students will have is about fabric selection for their gown. Questions on where to find period appropriate cotton prints often tops the list. Finding good quality and authentic looking prints can be tricky so we often advise going with a solid color or even a narrow stripe. Many prints on the market, white technically correct for the period, would have been more appropriate for drapery or furniture than for clothing. When in doubt, play it safe a pick a solid fabric for your first gown....

Each year the Golden Scissors takes on a small number of commissions for historical garments and accessories. Some may be rather simple, like aprons or pin cushions, and some may be a bit more complex. Each project offer its own challenges and joys in creativity. Our more recent commission, finished this past week and hand delivered on Saturday, was something entirely new and was very exciting to work on. Not only was it a project that was different from anything else we have sewn, it was for a close friend which made it even more special. Enter the mitre cap...

Today marks my one year anniversary as the new owner of At the Sign of the Golden Scissors! What a year it has been! I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you who has supported me by placing orders, sharing on social media or word of mouth, or just offering kind words of encouragement. Some days it's still hard to believe but I'm certainly enjoying this new adventure. I would also like to once again thank Hallie and Stephanie for their contributions and dedication to the living history community, their research and of course...

We've recently returned from a research trip in Virginia and boy do we miss the warmer weather! Hoping it reaches us soon here in New England. There are signs of daffodils and tulips in the gardens at home so we know we are getting close. In the mean time we are working to add some new fabrics and other goodies to our shop. How about some lovely spring-colored fabrics? Or a new "Spring" cap? Yes, 18th century cap kits are almost ready to hit the website!! They will be available with a choice of fabric and silk ribbon colors. We...

These instructions can be used to create different styles of pin cushions as well as pin pillows. These instructions are for personal use only, please do not copy and paste text or photos. If you wish to share, we ask that you link directly back to our post. Thank you!  Pin Cushion Kits Available Here! Heart and square shaped pin cushions, as well as pin balls, attached to women's aprons were popular throughout the 18th century and are seen in several period paintings and prints. Many examples of original pin cushions survive in museum and private collections. Hanging squares are...