ABSTRACT
In the early Tudor period, decorative bands of contrasting fabric were often placed round the hems of gowns and kirtles. Fancy edgings such as jagging were rare in Henry VIII's wardrobe, but the use of contrasting edging to embellish a range of garments including gowns, doublets and hose was used throughout Henry's reign. After Henry VIII's accession, the evidence suggests the sporadic use of patterns both for revels costumes and items for the king's personal wardrobe. It seems most likely that the king's tailor was personally involved in the selection of the fabrics used to make the king's clothes, and in many instances he also supplied them. The printed tailoring books contained cutting diagrams but no instructions on the actual techniques because tailors were concerned with cutting, not sewing. Tailoring did not require the use or acquisition of expensive or extensive equipment. Scissors were the most important tool and they feature both in written and visual sources.
