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Did Medieval fabric last longer?

 
master steward
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I tripped over this video last night. The premise is that because of the way fabrics were made hundreds of years ago, the fabric lasted longer.  Hmmmm... maybe yes, maybe no. I think there are a lot of factors, but certainly, the current "fast fashion" clothes does seem determined not to last. I don't buy that sort of clothing, so that may be skewing my point of view.

That said, I think this is a really interesting video to watch. It touches on a bunch of different techniques that we may still have people around with ideas of how they work and how that could help homesteaders make sturdy clothing that lasts well and does what we need it to do. I would particularly like to research more about how they water-proofed wool. I suspect there are some permies who already know something about that.

 
pollinator
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There is lots of nuance. Yes, there was better quality but there was also better care. Holes were patched quickly, they weren’t exposed to harsh chemicals (like frequent washing).

You can still get waterproof wool, but it will cost you. I have a modern Swedish wool coat and it is incredible. I can’t imagine what a real cloak or great kilt would be like.
 
pollinator
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Thanks for posting this excellent video - anybody who has muttered "I'm not paying that much" for a hand-spun/knitted/woven anything should be made to sit down and watch it!
Early on in my spinning career, I made a hand spun and knitted sweater from a fine grey merino fleece.  Somewhat panicked by it's fineness, I carefully spun it (maybe a bit too thick and slightly overspun) so when the yarn was wash, not all the grease came out.  It was practically waterproof, got very warm when rained on, and smelt like a sheep. . .
However, back to the video.  R. Scott is on the mark with garments being rarely washed, and then by hand, no harsh chemicals, and no tumble drying.  Clothes were considered so highly, that garments were left to friends and relatives in Last wills and testaments (several projects on Zooniverse.org back this up).  And we have to remember that personal hygiene wasn't high on the list, so it wouldn't be noticed if things got a little whiffy.  Unlike my aforementioned sweater.
t
 
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I can attest to the time & labor factors. Unfortunately, I've only been doing it for a few years, and still suck at spinning, though I'm pretty sure it has much to do with my fiber prep. I'll try to remember, when I'm better at it, to make another sheep-to-apparel post. Right now, I'm back to weaving, crocheting, and nåhlbinding yarns that others have created. But, it's definitely labor and time intensive, which (especially if you do it, yourself) tends to motivate one to take great care in maintaining each item.
 
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