Hand-made Hose (League & Marchers)

Kit and Making Things Costume and Crafting
1

I am in the process of hand-stitching (yes it is required apparently) some authentic joined-up woollen hose. It is hard going though. Especially doing the tailoring solo. Has anyone had a similar experience of making up hose, or stitching an entire garment for themselves by hand?
…or am I just mad to make the attempt??

My character " Giacomo " is of The League. I wonder what most hose-wearing folk do for hose? (esp. League and Marchers) …does anyone wear authentic woollen hose? …or are there easier (and cheaper) alternatives?

Cheers,
Paul

2

I think quite a few of the people on the field wearing apparent hose are in leggings of some sort, not least because then you can have a few pairs in case they get wet, muddy or torn.

1 Like
3

Primark leggings. For particoloured hose you can chop them in half and sew them back together with one leg from each pair.

2 Likes
4

Thanks chaps. It’s good to know that my efforts have been utterly in vain.

…better yet, the pursuit of vanity has left me out of pocket to the tune of £50 (raw materials and dye) vs. Primark leggings £6 …!!! :disappointed:

5

…still, I do appreciate your input and drawing my attention to the bargain women’s leggings of Primark.

6

If it’s any consolation, I bet yours will look far more authentic than my Primark leggings and you did save on the fun of having to get help working out your size… (I’m lucky; I am about the same dress size as my wife)

1 Like
7

Haha, cheers @AnthonyHJ that made me laugh out loud!
…and thanks. mate - I hope that they do. Who knows, people might ask for me to make them up some wollen hosen. A little side line …in truth, I am not sure I would want to take on making multiple pairs of the buggers; it is hours and hours of stitching. Impossible to machine sew the feet, so has to be hand-sewn :\

8

Your woollen hose should be warmer though and last longer, and will survive sparks from a fire better than the primark option.

Those of us who can tell will also be more impressed too. :slight_smile:

2 Likes
9

Cheers @CharlieP although, if I’m honest, my character just wants the admiration of the pretty signoras of the League :wink: <3 …especailly those who write the Looking Glass - League fashion magazine lol
…good shout on the fire resistance though - I had not thought of that. Winter is coming …and I’m sure that thick wollen hose will be worth the investment (I hope).

1 Like
10

Several people are wearing proper hose on the field - Tim Baker has made a few sets, and in fact wrote an article on the wiki about creating a full outfit. If you’re going to do it, hand is the correct method, and should work out fine.

1 Like
11

Thanks @tea, I’ll look into it.