Pattern for Tudor woman’s head linen

NEW!

• Made exclusively by The Tudor Tailor

Sewing pattern for a cap kercher and cornered kerchief, along with information for making other common 16th century head linen components, including a crosscloth (also called a forehead cloth), quarter, half yard, and full kerchief/kercher. Ideal for women of all social classes, across the entire Tudor era, 1485-1603. With full instructions for choosing materials and constructing, arranging and pinning garments for a variety of 16th century looks – perfect for reenactors.

All women in the Tudor period wore linen headwear, which was easily and regularly washed, over their hair. The most basic forms were hemmed squares or rectangles of linen fabric which could be tied, draped or pinned around the head. Some Tudor women also used constructed garments, such as a cap kercher (with its curved edges around the cheeks) or a cornered kerchief, which could be wired and bent to frame the face.

Often, more than one linen layer was combined for looks that ranged from basic to elaborate. Head linen was often worn under a hat, hood or knitted cap to keep these items clean and to help secure them to the head.

Highly researched and based on documentary descriptions, extant examples and paintings. Please see the listing images for specific sources.

Our 100% linen makes great headwear. Our 100% hemp fabric is slightly heavier and slightly creamier in colour, making it perfect for lower class portrayals.

One size.

Note, photos of actual garments are examples only – no garments are included with this product.