Join us for Seagirt's educational event of the season! We will be welcoming teachers from all over An Tir, who bring with them years of experience in a range of classes, including (but not limited to): marshal activities, scribal, dance, fiber and textiles, the University of Tir Righ NOVUS track, and a variety of discourses and lectures.
The weekend includes a meet and greet Friday evening like one would find at an academic conference, classes on Saturday and Sunday, and a grand ball Saturday evening.
The event will be held at 99111 Ring Rd, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2; please see the calendar page for additional site details and contacts.
We look forward to seeing you there!
From Shire to Society – what are the differences between different types of branches in the SCA? What is the SCA and where does it come from? Who is the King and what is his relationship to the Seneschal? What on earth is the Mucking Tall Maul and what do you have to do to get it? If you have ever found yourself wondering about any of these questions, then this is the class for you!
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A round table discussion on the topics found in our discourses track
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This class is a comparative look at poetry forms of Norse, Irish, German, Provencal, Spanish and Turkish extraction, covering at least two forms from each area and a broad expanse of eras, with extant examples. This class looks at both generalities of form like subject matter and who the poets were and how they may have been performed, and specifics of form such as rhyme and meter.
Note-taking materials
Leather was extensively used in day to day life in the middle ages. this class takes a quick look at just just what is this stuff and what did people do with it. It was used for a lot more than just bags, saddles and armour. Class will touch on terminology as well as methods of manufacture both of the material and the products made from it. Course fee provides handout and samples
Note-taking materials
Brief History on Repousee, powerpoint demonstration with materials to do hands-on trials for participants
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Participants will learn Long Arm cross stitch working with Aida Cloth and simple patterns. Today's Counted cross stitch is reputed to have been developed by Queen Mary while held in the Tower of London. She needed to conserve her threads as circumstances provided very limited supply. Long Arm cross stitch is the accepted form and is considered more period. "Long Arm cross stitches interlock in a way that makes it more resistant to wear and results in better coverage of the fabric. Each stitch is completed before starting the next. It differs from Counted cross stitch in that one of the diagonal stitches is twice as long as the other, extending over two squares, the effect resemples a plait." (Alicia le Wilfulle)
Supplies etc. will be provided by the instructor. Students may choose to bring their own embroidery needles, hoops, and floss.
The art of writing in Viking runes (also known as the Elder Futhark), the sacred alphabet of the Germanic peoples of Northern Europe. The class will offer basic instruction on the history of runes, their meaning and the writing of the characters. Runes are steeped in history & spirituality and were commonly used for divination. Some consider runes to be an ancient oracle particularly when considered in the history, stories, and myths of the Vikings and Norse. The very name 'rune' derives from the ancient Gothic 'runa' meaning a secret or mystery (Runes, Dee, J 001)
Supplies will be provided by instructor.
Have you ever wondered about events, and what you should do to prepare for them? This course introduces you to the range of event types found within the SCA, guidelines as to what kinds of things happen at these different kinds of events, and how to prepare for them. You, too, can have fun, be healthy, and stay safe at an SCA event The handout will include some convenient checklists for future use
Note-taking Materials
For hundreds of years Latin was the language of scholars, and the lingua franca for most of Europe. Learn very basic Latin grammar and vocabulary, and leave the class able to string together your own basic latin sentences.
Students should bring pen and paper
Learn to draft a pattern for a tunic based on your body measurements and available fabric using rectangular construction.
Measuring tape, 2-3m fabric, chalk or soap for marking, graph paper, pencil
What is a persona and why do we have them? In this class, we will explore the idea of persona development within the SCA, become familiar with the concept of persona, and take the first steps towards the NOVUS II Persona Development class.
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The Liao Dynasty of China (907-1125) is ruled by a northern nomadic people called the Qidan. After conquering the north of China and founding a dynasty of their own, in the image of the golden age of the Tang dynasty, and their own semi-nomadic traditions, the Qidan began growing a trade and gift network reaching all the way west as the Baltic region, and Syria, and as far East as Korea and Japan. In the twentieth century some tombs of the Liao dynasty were excavated and among the many treasures found inside was Baltic amber. I discuss briefly the discovery of Baltic Amber in Liao tombs regarding the significance of the amber to the Liao and addressing some possible reasons as to why they would reach so far away for amber when there were sources much closer to home.
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Learn to decode Spanish Tailor patterns! Period patterns are lavelled with letters, but without knowing what the letters represent it is not possible to use the pattern! Learn to create measuring tapes specific to you (or the person you are tailoring for) These can then be used to interpret period patterns or to use the patterns provided on The modern Maker Facebook page. Tapes can be made fo another individual, but you must have their height, waist, and chest measurement (and bust if the subject is female). You will leave with 2 or 3 completed tapes and the knowledge to make more.
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Brief History of Chasing Metal - PowerPoint demonstration with materials to do hands-on trials for participants
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If you have basic knowledge of spinning singles and would like to learn how to ply using a drop spindle, this is the class for you. We will work on 2 ply spinning and if there is time, we can try chain plying (3 ply using a single thread. Different than 3 ply) Please bring your spindle(s) and a few balls of single spun wool. I will have some fleece available for use. This is a relaxed class.
Single ply wool or other fibre, spindle
A round table discussion on the topics found in our Scribal track
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Designed primarily for newcomers, the Novus diplomas ensure students will touch on the full range of possible experiences within the SCA. These courses can also act as refreshers for other members, possibly providing them with introductions into aspects of the SCA that they have yet to explore. To accomplish this, they require a set curriculum for each. This discussion class will cover how both students and instructors can make the most of Novus classes.
Note-taking materials.
A beginning look at the use of ceramics in the middle ages. It was used extensively in day to day life but is ordinary enough it's often overshadowed. Everyone gets excited by the metal objects in archeological digs but the pottery shards and items are considered so common they barely get a second look. The types of pottery in use varied extensively due to the influences of what materials wer available locally, appropriate technology and by what was being traded. Modern shapes and glazes don't jar the senses as being out of place to the extent other modern anachronisms do, but the shapes and glazes commonly used were different from what are used now. Join us for a second look at this most ubiquitous stuff. Class will primarily focus on usage in Western Europe but will touch lightly on the eastern items arriving in late period. We will discuss the terminology, varous clay fabrics, shapes, decoration types, glazes, and techniques in use. Class will involve both physical examples and slides.
Note-taking materials
This class is designed to bring forward a knowledge of where the most popular informal style of musical presentation in the SCA -- filk music -- came from, its roots and usage in the middle ages and renaissance, and its modern use both inside, and outside of the SCA.
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A round table discussion on the topics found in our Textiles track
Note-taking materials
In this class we will discuss the three elements of successful target shooting: the bow, the arrows and the shooter... and how these three elements work together synergistically to create optimum performance.
Students should bring note-taking materials and, if they choose, their personal bow and arrows/quivers for evaluation.
Assisi Void work is actually filling around the pattern and leaving the traditional pattern void of colour. This is an Italian style based in the City of Assisi in the 13th Century.
Supplies etc. will be provided by the instructors. Students may choose to bring their own embroidery needles, hoops, and floss
Writing an elegand script starts with a beautiful yet functional writing tool. I will teach the basics of cutting a primitive writing implement from both softwood and feather. Class includes reeds, raw goose or turkey flight feathers, cutting and tembering materials, inks and handout. Students will learn to cut and heat temper a feather quill, cut a reed pen (for Arabic script calligraphy) and use various inks to try their hand. I will have script ductus and arabesque design samples with sized calligraphy paper for students to try out their new calligraphy tool. Cutting with sharp knives - Age 16 and up only!
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We will be playing a medieval-like card game called werewolf. The game revolves around students becoming either a heroic villager or a vile werewolf. During game play real facts about live in the the middle ages will be presented. During gameplay students will sit at the table and take on the role of a beloved villiager or a werewolf and play through a story base scenario which the "Host" will guide them through. The goal of the villiagers is to eliminate the werewolves and the goal of the werewolves is to eliminate the villagers. Who will be the victor, who will learn something medieval? Come and find out, I look forward to seeing you there!
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A bliaut is a long dress or tunic that reached its peak of popularity in the mid 12th Century in most of Europe. It is an upper-class garment, characterized by embellishments such as large sleeves, and bands of trim, usually at the neckline, biceps, wrists, and hem. We will look at period artistic depictions, and women's bliauts of varying styles made by the instructor. We will discuss style options and construction techniques that could be used to replicate them.
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Draft a pattern for 16th C Pants. Looc at several different styles of pants, and make a pattern for your favourite. Bara tapes for waist and height measures needed (see previous class). Pattern from The Modern Maker and from Clothes for the Common People will be examined. Leave the class with a pants pattern ready to cut out. Prerequisite: Bara Tapes
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In this class we'll discuss 14th and earlier 15th century fashion, and in particular the 10-12 gore Cotehardie. We'll talk about fabrics, finishing options and accessories. This pattern is based on a Greenland bog dress. We'll have the opportunity to create patterns for those in the class who are interested in doing so.
Students who want to create their own pattern should bring muslin or other fabric for patterning, scissors and pins.
The samurai were feared as swordsmen by just about everyone that crossed blades with them. This class explores the similarities and differences between kenjutsu (Japanese swordsmanship) and European Swordsmanship. We will work through kata from a school which dates to the sca period, in the form of slow work, and find the principles which drive them.
Students should bring a sword shaped wooden training tool. Instructor will have spares available for student use.
Bobbin lace dates from the early 16th century and flourished thereafter. In this class students will learn period techniques including plaits, picots and joins, and to do a short sampler piece in class. All materials will be provided, and lace pillows, bobbins and equipment are available to borrow during the class. If you wish to purchase a beginner kit to take home, please contact the instructor ahead of time.
If you have a lace pillow and bobbins, please feel free to bring and use them
This class is full.
At the end of this class each participant will have their own set of Viking (Elder Futhark) runes, which can be used for divination etc. The runes will still have to air-dry completely before being used. Students may want to varnish the runes after they have dried
Supplies etc. will be provided by the instructor
Courtesy and Chivalry are the core of the SCA; it takes kindness and politeness to a higher level. This class shapes a student's experience of the SCA. Topics will cover basic forms of address, how to bow/curtsey, and the informal and small courtesies of a civilized society.
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What do we do? Everything, because there is no audience and we all participate! This is a quick overview of activities beyond martial arts and sewing circles, and how you, too, can be a part of this hugely creative hobby
Note-taking materials
Using the pattern you drafted in Part 1 (or similar pattern, please contact the instructor to verify), learn how to put together your rectangular and triangular pieces in a way that suits hand-finished seams and will lie flat when worn. Some familiarity with a sewing machine is encouraged.
Pattern drafted in Part1, 2-3m fabric and matching thread, sewing machine if available/desired, scissors, pins, needles, measuring tape, and chalk/soap for marking.
A workshop on how to hone your pieces for presentation and competition within the SCA's structure. This is specifically a performance workshop, so we will only cover documentation generally. Please come with at least two pieces prepared for public performance, and an open mind to creative and constructive criticism.
Note-taking materials, at least 2 performance pieces the student wishes to hone for presentation in SCA (or other) competition.
As an introduction to divination of the reading of runes, students will be shown and practice a couple of the similar rune castings. We will begin with the 'Three Norns' and then move on to the 'Runic Cross' and if time permits conclude with the 'Five Directions.' The class will begin with basic instruction on the meaning of each of teh runes and then move on to the first of the castings. Students will be expected to actually attempt readings using the basic information they have been provided with and the parameters of the specific casting being used.
Supplies etc. will be provided by instructors. Students will have made their own set of Runes in the previous class. Otherwise, if student have their own set of 25 runes (including 'wyrd') they may want to bring them along. You should not be using someone else's Runes when doing readings.
This class focuses on the importance of ritual and magic in the life of the Japanese person in our period. Topics covered will be: Shintoism and Purity, Mikkyo and the quick way to Enlightenment, and the magic and mysticism of the warrior caste.
Note-taking materials.
This class will introduce the learner to some simple techniques for the construction of Celtic knot patterns, including a square, border, rectangle, celtic cross, fish entrail, twisted figure eights, and linked hearts.
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Examining the rules and equipment. There will be an opportunity for students to try different weapons and shield types.
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Using period patterns as explained and expanded in Matthey Gnagy's "The Modern Maker", pattern draft a 16th C doublet specifically for your form. Bara Tapes for chest waist and 1/2 height are required to draft the pattern. The book is not a required text for the class, but it is highly recommended for any later period tailor. Leave the class with a doublet pattern ready to cut out. Prerequisite: Bara Tapes
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A round table discussion on the topics found in our Fiber Arts track
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Uroscopy, the diagnosis of illness based on the visual examination of urine, was an important practice in medicine since ancient times and all throughout the medieval period. Students will learn about the humoural theory of medicine, uroscopy tools and techniques, survey period art, literature, and medical manuals, and create and colour their own urine wheel. We will also discuss the decline of uroscopy, and touch on uromancy.
Note-taking materials, coloured pencils.
This class covers the fundamentals of Polearm fighting. Thrusting, cutting, range control, and manipulation. Participants should bring their own weapon and armour. If possible participants should bring a sword and shield if they have as part of the practical exercises though not necessary.
Armour, Pole arm, Shield and sword if possible.
How do you go from making a medieval thing to conducting research into the making and/or use of medieval things? In this workshop, you will work with an archaeologist to develop a project of your own choice. We will explore different kinds of Experimental and Experiential Archaeology, work on developing hypotheses and methodologies, and hopefully have some fun exploring the scientific side of Arts and Sciences. Bring your ideas about an A&S project that you have already done, or one that you hope to do, and together we will develop a plan.
Pen and Paper. Possible idea for a project
Welcome to spinning on a wheel. This class will cover how to spin on a variety of wheels and: The parts of a wheel and how they work What to look for when purchasing your own wheel Equipment to use with a wheel Accessories and essential extras for a wheel Types of fibre Putting hands and feet to work at the same time How to create the amount of teist for thickness of yarn being spun Plying singles into multiple stranded yarn If we ahve time we will work on Navajo Three plying.
If they have roving (wool) then sure, if not there will be lots provided.
The student will learn the hand used in the Hereford Writ from 1215. A major difference between this hand and many others the student may have encountered is that the variation in the widths of the lines is created by varying the pressure (as opposed to being a result of the width of the nib). A photo of and more information about the Hereford Writ is available at: http://blogs.bl.uk/digitisedmanuscripts/2015/01/hereford-writ-to-be-displayed-at-the-british-library.html
Supplies will be provided (included in the cost)
This class is full.
A round table discussion on the topics found in our Newcomers track
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A round table discussion on the topics found in our Performing Arts track
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