Silkwork, Passementerie & Costume Accessories

Research

Gina has been involved in numerous research projects, both as an individual and through Soper Lane.

Victorian Trimming and Embellishment Ideas
For Your Wardrobe Unlock'd: the Costume Maker's Companion March 2009

Tassel & Knop Types and Decorative Techniques
A work-in-progress to classify historical tassel types and decorative styles/techniques

Tassel & Knop Timeline
A work-in-progress cataloging styles from various sources, including extant items and artistic representations.
Currently only pre-18th century

Recent (unpublished) research includes the Kruseler Research Group. This paper is part of a group study - Trimmed with Frills: Crimped, Frilled and Ruffled Edges in Women's Headwear from Medieval to early Modern Times - organised by the Medieval Centre. You can see images of some of my experiments by clicking here.

Leeds Medieval Congress, July 2008
The Art of The Silkwomen

Report: Repair and Restoration of 18th century tassels
A report for the client, outlining the processes of work for this project can be downloaded. PDF file
Alternatively, images can be seen by clicking here.

The following is a list of publications:

Tak v Bowes Departed: A 15th Century Braiding Manual Examined
Elizabeth Benns & Gina Barrett
Click here to visit the website which accompanies this book

Medieval Fingerloop Braids
Booklet co-written with Elizabeth Benns

Tablet Weaving: Fringe
Booklet co-written with Elizabeth Benns

Tablet Weaving: Narrow Girdles
Booklet co-written with Elizabeth Benns

Tablet Weaving: Wide Girdles
Booklet co-written with Elizabeth Benns

Medieval Book Decoration
Booklet co-written with Elizabeth Benns

Medieval Textile Purses
Booklet co-written with Ruth Singer

Some of the above titles are still available from Soper Lane