Full Viking Kit

 

The completion of a large trade order has finally shipped! Forgive the wrinkles... some had been in a box for quite a while, as this was a long process.

Some time ago, another craftsman and I organized a trade for each other's work that turned into a big order. More than half of last year was spent house hunting, so we agreed to focus on other things-- but now, finally, it is done.

The kaftan is fine herringbone 2/2 twill wool, based on the Haithabu pattern.

Two tunics, one in fine grey wool and one in green linen, both a tabby weave, are based on the Birka tunic interpretation by Hägg. Previously a red wool tunic was shipped to ensure a good fit.

Three pairs of trousers: green linen and blue wool, same as above, and a very heavy fulled wool pair for the cold. These are Haithabu trousers, attested to by art in Sweden. There is debate about the "leg tube" as we don't know what they looked like below the knee!

I used a wide variety of different stitches and seam treatments, from decorative flat felled running stitches in contrasting thread to rolled seam with a hidden prick stitch/whip stitch. The seams are different on almost every piece, each custom measured for a bespoke, tailored fit. This was a fun project and among the largest orders I've done to date. It feels like a new chapter checking this off my list.

On to the next one!