I've been working on a special order of sword-play doublets for a local group. I should never have accepted the job, but it seemed an easier job than it was, and I needed the bit of extra cash it would bring in. It was just a nasty nightmare for the last 6 months. Not only could i not source a cheap suitable blanketing for padding, but the fitting proved very difficult, my sewing machine has broken three times under the pressure of sewing the thick heavy construction, the clients can be very fussy when something is hand made for them, and even when they are paying absolutely bottom price for the garment. To get these things made commercially or shipped in from overseas would have doubled or trebled the cost. So, they took a bit of time... And now there are a few who won't pay what's owing. It's lucky I believe in karma, I HATE asking for money, even if it IS owed to me. It just leaves me with a sick feeling. Why can't people just do the right thing?

Just a few examples of braidwork and embroidery - mostly for my husband's clothes! Wish I had time to make my own look as pretty... The two pieces of embroidered knotwork were made specifically for his inar (padded battle jacket) representing the salmon of knowledge and the hound of war (CuChullain). The braids are just a few basic samples - I give them away almost as soon as I make them, so these are the ones left on hand to take pictures of. I'll include weaving instructions at a later date.

My fabulous husband took one (or two) looks at a visitor's full size loom and decided he could make something much nicer and more functional.

And he did!

It weaves up to a 7 metre warp and 10cm wide. I used it to weave the braid on his wedding tunic. Aww....

(if anyone's interested he makes and sells them for AU$250!)