Making a (first century AD) tunic

[Matthew Amt]

Ave!

You're right, the first couple posts are a little vague. The tunic is made of 2 panels, one front and one back, sewn together at top and sides. Typically they turned the fabric sideways, so that there was a selvedge (finished edge) at top and bottom. Saves a lot of hemming! With 45" wide linen, that can work, but since modern wool is typically 58" to 60" wide it's really too wide for that. So you have to cut off one edge. Generally I go with the selvedge at the bottom, and hem the neck opening. Plus you probably need to hem the armholes.

Linen thread is best for sewing, especially for hand-sewing. I generally stick with simply running stitches, or a backstitch if I need more strength. Pretty sure those are both well documented, though they may not be the only options. I just use a running stitch for the hems, too--no need to get fancy. I may use a whip stitch when sewing on clavi (stripes), though.

Happy sewing!

Matthew