I'm off for the weekend - it's time for the Historical Sewing Meet-Up in Rothenfels, where I'll be having fun and coffee and the happy occasion of giving a few workshops... about brocading in tablet-weaving, fingerloop braiding, and tailoring.

There's also the presentation about medieval fabrics that will be having its first outing this weekend, and I confess I'm very, very curious about how it will be received. I've tried to pack in both the specific information requested by some of the Meet-Up participants and to provide some background to properly understand medieval fabrics. I've also found myself in the awkward position to include all the Bad News (TM) regarding the sources available, and the differences between historical and modern fabrics... so I'm fully expecting to see some sad faces following the presentation.

However, I do believe that it's better to know the facts and know where the compromises start (and how big they are) than to bumble on in happy oblivion. After all, many of us who wear medieval clothing at events are also passing on knowledge to the public - and, whether we talk to the event visitors or not, we're helping form their view of the Middle Ages.

Which means that every bit of knowledge counts double - and every little step towards a better representation of the current state of research regarding history does as well, even if that means facing sad truths, or letting go of much-beloved things from one's (re)presentation and kit.