So, an update on some of the preparation I've done for my Holy Grail project. After looking around the web, I've discovered theres not a huge amount of information on the 1830's or a lot of choice of patterns. The one I've chosen as coming closest to my inspiration dress is this one by Truly Victorian.
The other thing I've done is track down a supplier for rat-tail cord for the decorative work. They have a big selection of colours, but nothing close to the colour I was hoping to match, so I'm back to the start on picking a colour.
This is what they've got

I guess I need to see which colours I can match in fabric, and do a bit of research to see if there's any perticular rules about colours for the 1830's!
So because I haven't choosen colours or fabrics for the big project yet, and because I want a victorian evening outfit, I've decided to test the TV pattern on this dress- more on that next time!

So I've decided that for 2011, I will give myself a 'Holy Grail' project to complete. Whats a Holy Grail project I hear you ask? Well, its a term I was introduced to on a fabulous website,  www.yourwardrobeunlockd.com Basicly, a Holy Grail project is somethng that you've always wanted to make but have never attempted because its too complicated, too expensive or just too time consuming. But what better way to stretch yourself, motivate yourself and get that buzz of looking at something and saying 'I made this and I love it!'
So this is my project:

Its an 1830's dress which I saw on ebay a year or two ago and have gazed at longingly ever since. I also want to make a 1830's corset, probably a copy of one in Jill Salens book http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1906388016
With all that embroidery and the cording on the corset, it seems like at least a years worth of work! I've started planning and preparing, and will share some more soon!