1886

Welcome!

This page features insider info for:

-1886 updates (Costume On, house reno, pattern line, general info)
-Costume research/projects with photos and info
-Premiere release of patterns & tutorials before public availability
-Occasional videochats & make-a-longs

4 years ago I purchased an abandoned 1886 Victorian manor and adjoining cottage on 5 acres of lawn and woods. Big, gloriously creepy, and full of every 19th century wonder- stained glass, fireplaces, wood paneling, a servant wing and butler's pantry. My deep obsession with the 1880s has kept me going through floods, bats, debt and the massive snapping turtle who laid a clutch of eggs in the front yard.

After 20+ years in film, I'm building my dream of a large Victorian manor restored in full period style on a modern budget. A pattern line, Costume On: an Online Conference for Historical Costuming and sledgehammering through drywall at 3 a.m. after half a bottle of wine.

A very unconventional life has led me here- your patronage supports research, original content, house reno and the general creation of a colorful spectrum of eccentricity. Whether it's recreating Whitechapel in the basement or the hall of heads from Return to Oz, researching 19th century true crime or reverse-engineering a museum garment, my goal is to make up for lost time and create as much original content as I can to share with you. :)