Gloria is an accomplished costumer, knitter, cosplayer, jeweler, and all around creative human. She and her husband Mike are an amazing photography duo (In the Long Run Designs) and it's almost certain you will have seen some of their gorgeous portraits around the internet.

Gloria has kindly allowed me to create this upcycled housewife kit using fabrics from previous costumes (pictured above) and the result is a lovely combination of warm and cool tones, perfect for the lead up to Autumn.

The fabrics used here are most appropriate for 1810-1890, so this would be great for any Civil War reenactors or mid 19th century living historians.

Due to the nature of upcycled kits, the configuration of your pieces may vary, but all kits will include the following fabrics:

- black worsted wool

- maroon worsted wool

- medium blue linen

- light blue cotton print

- dark blue cotton print

- red floral cotton print

Some combinations include fabric binding, while others include tape and ribbon.  

----

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the item called a housewife (“hussif”) is one that had multiple uses. It could be a container for small personal items, a wallet, a sewing kit, or a combination of these. This housewife kit is a simple design based off period examples. It has been lovingly assembled in two versions, both containing everything you need to make your own.

Complete Kit:
- Instructions
- Pre-cut fabric
- binding/ties
- Full spool of thread
- Wood threadwinder
- Pins
- Needle
- Beeswax Heart

Essentials Kit:
- Instructions
- Pre-cut fabric
- binding/ties

Photos are the property of In the Long Run Designs and Willoughby & Rose.

For more help with making your own housewife check out my video on the subject.