Tuesday 22 December 2015

A 14th century annular brooch




This is just a tiny project, but it's cute.  Yes, that is a full-size brooch.  These medieval annular brooches were generally very small.




Brooches like this have been found in London and York, and could be made in a variety of different metals; this one is brass and is based on a 14th century brooch from London.  The design is growing on me.  When I first saw it I thought it looked interesting, but the more I look at it, the more I like it.  It reminds me of a little wreath.


The Challenge: Re-do.  This is a re-run of both Challenge 3: Stashbusting, and Challenge 7: Accessorize.

Fabric: N/A.

Pattern: This tutorial, brought to my attention by Cathy Raymond.  Thanks Cathy!

Year: 1350 to 1400 CE.

Notions: Brass wire, pliers, a whetstone to sharpen the pin.

How historically accurate is it?  A good 90%, I think.  It's constructed like the medieval originals and there is a brooch like this from London which is made of brass.  I suspect the exact composition of my wire is different from medieval brass, but that's just being pedantic.

Hours to complete: Less than one.

First worn:  Not yet, I've only just finished it.

Total cost:  That brass wire has been sitting in my drawer for years and the brooch only used a small quantity, so probably less than a dollar.

4 comments:

  1. I might make one of these myself someday, which is one reason I added the tutorial to my post. Glad it was of service.

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  2. I might make one of these myself someday, which is one reason I added the tutorial to my post. Glad it was of service.

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    Replies
    1. It's a bit fiddly, mainly because it's so small, but overall it's quite an easy and satisfying project. Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

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    2. You too! Who knows, I may get a sprang cap started...ur, I mean finished, before the end of the year! :-)

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