I also posted this on armourarchive, but there are some people who post here who don't post there.

I am working on a new Gambeson (13th century) and wanted to include mitten sleeves (sleeves with mittens attached as a single piece) as seen in the Mac. bible. However, I foresee some problems, and was wondering if sombody here had some experience that might help me out.

If you move your arm, the distance from (back)shoulder to wrist changes. With normal sleeves this is no problem, as the sleeve can slide up and down along the wrist to compensate. Is this a problem with mitten-sleeves? Would tying the sleeve around the wrist help?
Another thing is, how do I guarantee hand-movement. I guess I shouldn't pack the mitten too tight?
Is there anything else I should pay attention to?

Thx

R

Hello,

I've not done this myself so I make no guarantees about the efficacy of my suggestions.

1. I would suggest tying at or just below the elbow, not the wrist. This should allow the wrist and forearm free movement and keep it from tearing out the shoulder. You'll still need to make the sleeves generous in length and with big gussets.
2. Cut the fabric on the bias.
3. Quilt width-wise instead of lengthwise. A thickly padded gambeson will stretch perpendicular to the quilting lines.

Good luck,
Steven

I have never made one before but what would it look like if you took the measurement with your arm extended as far as possible? Would it be too loose? I can ask my wife she understands the subtle ways of fabric.

RPM