Civilian Reenacting on a Budget
by LuAnn Mason
However, a little money, wisely spent, can still yield a top-notch civilian impression. If you're willing to learn to sew your own clothing, the cash outlay for a rank beginner's full civilian kit can be under $100.
Purchases:
10 yards white muslin at 99 cents a yard
(JoAnn Fabrics, regular price).This will make a petticoat (3 yards), a chemise (2.5 yards), a pair of drawers (2 yards), 2 or 3 collars (1/2 yard), and provide bodice lining for your first dress (2 yards)
7 yards woven cotton solid, stripe, check or period appropriate print at $2 per yard for work dress (Wal Mart, sale rack. Not everything they have is appropriate, but I've yet to walk out of Wal Mart empty handed when fabric shopping)
3 yards woven cotton solid, stripe, check or period appropriate print at $2 per yard for waist apron or pinner apron (Wal Mart, sale rack)
2 yards woven cotton solid, stripe, check or period appropriate print at $2 per yard for slatted or corded sun bonnet (Wal Mart, sale rack)
1 pair ankle high boots in brown or black, usually $15 (either PayLess Shoe Source or Wal Mart)
1 pair white cotton stockings $6.50 (available at sutlers)
1 gathered bodice pattern from Past Patterns $18 (available from End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center gift shop)
1 2/3 yards solid, check or stripe wool for shawl $4.50 (available from Pendleton Woolen Mills Washougal outlet store, remnant bins, $2.50 per yard)
1 reproduction brooch from Abraham's Lady: $5
1 small carrying basket (craft store) $5
1 white ironstone plate $1 (thrift store)
1 set silver plate eating utensils in period appropriate pattern $3 (thrift store)
1 teacup $3 (thrift store)
1 yard huck toweling (to wrap plate, cup and utensils in) $3.50 (Fabric Depot)
