Episode 21: Hairwork, Victorian & Otherwise

Sponsored by Folkwear Patterns. Folkwear – Where history meets your hands. Visit Folkwear.com and use code HANDMADE20 for 20% off your purchase. Code is good through the end of 2025!  "Hairwork" probably makes you think of intricate Victorian mourning jewelry and silky sculpted hair under glass. We take a broad view of this craft and talk about hairwork from ancient times (such as false beards made of metal) to modern day (the fabulous wigs Queen Charlotte wears in Bridgerton). We also share the varieties of hairwork that were made in the US from pre-colonial times (hair cord used to hang canteens in the cliffs of the Southwest) through the Victorian era (those silky sculptures, and so much more). Join us for a deep dive into what is considered a macabre craft that is actually fascinating, diverse, and occasionally very sweet. Show notes and sources here: https://tinyurl.com/4b9bsekd Have a question, comment, or idea for a future episode? Email us at [email protected]. Visit our website at handmadehistorypodcast.com for more information.