Our feeling is that each reenactor must decide for him or herself what level of authenticity they wish to achieve.
As living historians, we do have an obligation to the audience to be as period correct as possible, and if not, to explain why we are lacking.
But reenacting is also a family hobby, and many spouses and young children are not up to "hardcore" campaigning. Reenacting is an expensive hobby, and the most correct items are often beyond the budget of the average reenactor. And we are a community - one which is not strengthened by infighting, authenticity debates or discrimination among different types of reenactors.
Ruby Jane tries to offer a variety of items to suit the needs of all levels of reenacting.
Our fabric and patterns are reproductions of actual period items.
Premade items, such as clothing and accessories are machine sewn. Dresses can be left "unfinished" if you desire to add your own hand-stitched hems or buttonholes. We may occasionally use elastic or hook and eye tape, particularly in children's clothing. This will always be disclosed in the product listing. We use all-natural fabrics (except for our wools, which are a blend).
Our crochet hooks, knitting needles, and hair combs are made of bone, to simulate ivory; since of course ivory items are illegal to sell these days.
We do sell enamelware dishes, which are not correct to the period. Enamelware in an inexpensive and lightweight option for use around camp, particularly when you have young children in your party.
If you have any questions about our merchandise, please feel free to email us at info@rubyjane.com and any time.
