I was going to keep mum about it, but since my client splashed the sketch all over Facebook I think I'm in the clear to talk about the other new project I have currently. I'm making a Duchess gown for one of the girls back at Michigan Ren. If she wants to play a Duchess then it is my job to make her look the part. I found some absolutely lovely green velvet which we will accent with black velvet and gold metallic trim. I found a great blue damask for a forepart which will be couched, and beaded with colored pearls and Czech glass (no disco ball nobles here!) and guarded in velvet. The plan is for Spanish sleeves on a French cut bodice with slashed and trimmed wool under-sleeves lined in shot silk. Everything will be topped of by a silk caul and pleated velvet hat. I've been lucky thus far and I think I might be able to get all the materials for just under $600, but that is still up in the air a bit and I still have to buy the major variables like beads and trim. We are basing this on a cross between two portraits of French noblewomen so I feel pretty good about the design and execution.

Sorry to be so general. I think this is going to be one of those "Surprise! It's done!" projects. Plus, I don't want to steal any of her thunder on opening day. If it works out the way I am hoping this could be a stunner. I'm excited, but I need to get Lady Stafford pretty much done before I can start the major push on this.