Mason-Dixon Sewing Company
Authentic, Quality Reenactment Clothing
for the Civil War reenacting hobby

CLOTHING CONSTRUCTION

At Mason-Dixon Sewing Co. we construct clothing very authentically - meaning that our clothing is made as close to, if not exactly, as it was made in the 1860s.
   - using natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, wool and silk
   - the correct fabric, style & color
   - the proper construction as to the seams, linings, trimmings & closures.  

The correct color of the fabric is very important in making a reproduction garment. When choosing fabric for a dress, carefully imagine the actual colors of the fruits and vegetables in the produce isle at the grocery store. This is a good rule of thumb when choosing the color of fabric you would like for and authentic dress.

The majority of original Men's dress coats were black, brown and dark blue, plus light colored linen for summer.

Seam Finishes
Men's shirts were sewn with flat felled seams. This durable seam is folded over and then stitched down.

Linings
Women's and Children's bodices were lined, as well as Men's suit coats.

Trimmings
As natural of a trim that can be found in today's world. No shiny grosgrain ribbon here!

Closures
Garments were closed by either hook and eye, buttons, buckle or tied by strings.  Buttonholes could only be done by hand. Hand sewn buttonholes are gladly accepted.

Examples
(click on image to view details)

A gauged waist treatment with a piped edge.
Also referred to as cartridge pleating when large amounts
of fabric have to be gathered into a small area.
This is commonly seen on original garments.

The inside of a Bodice boning, darts,hook closures.
Bodices were made this way to give structure and support.

A Hem Facing.
Gives weight and smoothness to the hem of the skirt.
Very typical is a lining fabric used instead of
the fashion fabric for economical purposes.

Inside of a Child's Dress

Inside of a Frock Coat.
The polished cotton lining and padded chest details.

A Box Pleated waist treatment.