Seems like we have had a lot of questions recently about arming clothes and textile defenses lately. Folks want to know what type and weight of fabric to use, what patterns are available for different time periods, what sources we have for information on these items (whether archeological or pictorial), and what is the appropriate terms to use for different garments. I know I’m learning a lot by reading them, but I know I’m getting confused because the information is spread out over so many different threads.
Would one or more of the more knowledgeable folks be willing to write up a basic essay (s) covering these items, for the reference section of the archive? These don’t have to be great research projects just rough summaries to start (you then get the privilege to be picked apart by the rest of us
. I’d suggest a couple of separate basic essays to start:Terminology
Sources
Materials (types used and where to get them)
Patterns and Construction
I know there will be a lot of overlap, but I’d rather see some summarized and organized information get out there quickly, then wait for a long time to get the “perfectâ€