18th century hoops

I already have a set of pocket hoops but am not really happy to wear them for extended periods - they shift and don't really have enough support for many of my gowns so I'm considering other options. The first one that comes to mind is this mantua maker pattern.

I'm thinking about the second version, the two-tier one. My only concern is whether it will be too wide for the caraco gown I'm making, and whether I'll be able to wear it at the tavern in Colonel Williamsburg.

Drafting a sleeve

Most of the patterns in my collection are for standard sleeves, and without much drafting experience I was pleased to find this article that should help me to draft the sleeves for my caraco jacket.

This picture will give you a better idea of what I have to do:

Thanks to Lauren from American Duchess for sending me this image :)
17th and 18th Century Fashion in Detail, Page 94

18th Century Caraco

Tonight I started cutting out the toile for my 18th Century Caraco. I saw this beautiful dress first when on a visit to the V&A in London on the Sensibility 2009 Tour. I'm hoping to wear my version of this lovely gown to Colonel Williamsburg in March this year.

I've found a very similar fabric to use and will be sewing it as close as possible in the period manner.

Found this in an online quilting store in the US.