When we visited the Colonial Williamsburg Costume Design Center Open House last year, my son and I held a military stock in our hands.
My son’s eyes shone!
Having seen them worn by many a reenactor and historical interpreter, he’s been wanting one of his own.
Not finding an affordable one for our budget to purchase, I sewed one for him with materials from my fabric stash…felt, silk, and velcro.
My son wasn’t too keen on velcro, for which I can’t blame him.
But no one will see it and over time we can improve the elements.
SOURCING THE BUCKLE
While we visited Burnley and Trowbridge last spring, my son asked about an appropriate buckle, which I happily purchased!
I thought it would make a good leather project for my son, but I’ve had trouble sourcing proper leather.
RESEARCHING THE IMPROVEMENTS
When we visited this year’s Costume Design Center Open House, we were again taunted by the beguiling and most proper military stock.
Now understanding that there are leather versions, and lighter versions, I inquired as to the type of material that the softer version was comprised.
Learning it was made of horsehair, I asked where I could source that.
Shocker…it’s $200 a yard!
For our purposes, I told the seamstress that I had made one out of felt and silk and she said that works.
Asking how I could attach the buckle to the fabric, she gave me some tips.
Then a few weeks ago I discussed the same project with one of the tailors who gave me several guidelines on hand stitching those details.
SEWING A NEW MILITARY STOCK FOR CHRISTMAS
Ripping off the velcro from my son’s old stock, I planned to quickly make the amendments for the buckle.
Unfortunately, the sticky backs permanently left sticky residue.
(groan) I had to make a whole new stock.
This time I used silk and left over wool from my son’s new cloak.
After cutting out the fabric and sewing everything together, I attached the buckle, and ta da!
I know my son will be thrilled to add the buckled version to his regimentals!
Although few will ever see it while he’s most properly dressed, he will know as he feels it back there, and that will make all the difference! 😉
