Victorian Era Women: The DIY OGs

Mar 7

While fashioning a makeshift flat braiding surface and weights from a clipboard and household clamps the other night, to try my hand at a braid pattern that had suddenly piqued my interest, I was reminded of an article I had come across in my research from the Household Arts section of the September 1877 Ladies’ Floral Cabinet and Pictorial Home Companion. The article suggested that women who endeavored to give their husband or friend a hairwork watchguard but couldn't afford to buy one might consider adopting a do-it-yourself approach and learn how to make it themselves.

The initial task outlined in the article is “to construct the apparatus which is needed.” This involved gathering materials, some of which may be readily available around the house, to assemble a hair braiding table. The article further suggests that “little screws which can be found at any hardware store will do very well” as weights, before moving on to the next step of the process.

While I currently have no plans to pursue table braiding and am solely focused on experimenting with braid patterns that I might incorporate into making hair flowers, I appreciate being reminded of the shared learning experiences between contemporary enthusiasts like myself and Victorian-era women, whose crafting practices were known to exemplify ingenuity, creativity, resourcefulness, and artistic expression. Learning through hands-on experimentation and making use of available materials and tools resonates with the DIY ethos of the Victorian era. As the article aptly states, “like many other things after we once know how, it seems very easy; indeed, only needing a little patience and perseverance for its accomplishment.” This sentiment encapsulates the timeless appeal of learning through trial and error, highlighting our link to the inventive pursuits of our predecessors.