Hi there
A quick update on the summer's activity!  Have been so busy I haven't had time to write what I've been up to.....

Had some brilliant work experience over the summer; was lucky enough to make some costumes for CBBC Hacker and Dodge.  I made two different country gent costumes, check shirts, tweed waistcoats with sherlock hat and flat cap.  Photos to follow hopefully, as the CBBC chaps took them away before I had chance to photo the finished article!

Luca Costiglioli visited the Bowes Museum at Barnard Castle in July to recreate Josephine Bowes' ballgown depicted in the painting held in the museum.  Luca is famous historical costumier from Italy who is very passionate about his craft.  I was lucky enough to assist with the gown for a couple of days.  Quite an experience! Learned lots too.

I also spent a week of work experience in London at Cosprop, which was absolutely fantastic.  John Bright has a wonderful collection of genuine period costumes -a lifetime's work.  Thank to Susan and the girls for making me so welcome and giving me plenty to do!  I made a man's corset, several bum pads amongst other things.

Fiona and Sharon at Brookes Tailors in Barnard Castle, gave me homework, ie practising handmade button holes. Grateful thanks to them too.
Also became a volunteer for Beamish Museum, had a great day there through the summer too, this is ongoing and will go back as soon as I can!.

I had a lovely holiday in Austria in June and was really impressed by the wall paintings on a lot of the houses.  The travelling community painted them on as payment for bed and breakfast apparently.  It is called luft malleri ( not sure of correct spelling!)  meaning air painting.
Couldnt resist taking lots of pictures and wanted to share this one.