It's been a long time since I felt like blogging. Oh, I'm not talking about the quick jots on Facebook, (which I love BTW), but actual sit down and write things out kind of blogging. Truth be told, I'm out of practice, and also, it feels like a lot of work to sit down and write something out that I think people might want to read. Back when I was younger, before I started editing and writing for an online magazine, and several periods of burnout/depression/exhaustion ago, blogging was easier. ... continue reading...
Organizing Your Research
Finding information is the easy part, keeping it organized so you can find it again when you need it three years later? That's the tricky part! Having an organizational plan before you start collecting links, documents and photos, or creating an organizational structure to put already found information into is key to being able to find that detail you need easily. Why waste time searching for it again when you could just put it in a good spot in the first place? Here's my not-so-secret ... continue reading...
The Hunting Clothes of Emperor Maximilian I
New, as of yesterday, a fascinating translation by Beatrix Nutz of Emperor Maximilian I's little book of advice on proper hunting clothes. Obviously written from the Emperor's extensive hunting experience, he explains why he makes the recommendations that he does. The document contains transcription of the original German, Modern German, and English translation. If it appears to have a weird format on your screen, I recommend downloading the PDF.The Hunting Clothes of Emperor Maximilian I ... continue reading...
How to Take Great Photos in Museums
I have been exceedingly fortunate during the last few years to be able to travel to many places in Europe and research historical clothing in many museums and churches, as well as having private appointments to study items not on display. As a visual person, my camera is my memory and main research tool. I do take notes but as the cliché goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words”, and this is certainly true for me! I do not expect ever to be able to return to the places I visit to see the ... continue reading...
How to Find Information About a Certain Town or Place
Often I get emails from people trying to find information about a particular town that is off the beaten research path. I was recently asked about finding information about Lübeck Germany, but the steps I give below will work for any town or region. “Hi, I’m trying to research the clothing and sumptuary laws of Lübeck, but all I can find is material for Southern Germany. Do you have any specific pointers on finding information specifically about Lübeck?” So, how to find Lübeck or other area ... continue reading...