Viking Tournament and Magpie-sitting

I went along to a Viking tournament on the weekend. I haven't worn Norse style garb in several years, and I was pleasantly surprised that a) it still fit and b) at how quick and easy it was to put on compared to my Renaissance garb. I was having bad fatigue and a high pain day, and it was also quite cold, so a warm and easy style of clothing really helped me get through the morning.

A friend of mine has a rescue magpie that lives with him and I got to spend time on the day with her. (Actually I monopolised her for as much time as I could during the day!) She is a truly beautiful bird, as well as being good-natured and intelligent. We could all pretend that this post is about a renewed interest in Viking garb, and my plans to make some more early garb for travelling, but really it is all about showing you a picture of my new friend 😉

Photo by Phil Abrahams

Newcomer Sewing

On the weekend I spent a second Saturday helping a newcomer to cut and sew Viking garb for their first event. I was not the lead on the project, and was just helping doing supplementary jobs. I always find it interesting to work with other people on sewing projects; it is a great way to refine your skill set and help to serve your local group, but it is also a great opportunity to see how and why other people do things in a different way.

Hot weather and thinking of cooler garb styles

We have had a run of 40 degree celsius (plus) days where I live, which has made me really think about lighter types of pre-sixteenth century clothing. I am working on a lot of projects for other people right now, but a Roman tunica is on the cards. My SCA group also has a Viking event coming up this year, so I will be making some Viking garb down the track.

I have procrastinated about making Viking garb for many years, but have been accumulating the appropriate jewellery and beads along the way. This week I strung a couple of strings of beads to go with my turtle brooches. I did two strings, and left space for a couple more to be added in the years to come.