Materials:
* Wool: The most common material for clothing, especially for the lower classes. Sheep were raised for their wool, which was then sheared, cleaned, and spun into yarn.
* Linen: Flax was cultivated for its fibers, which were processed into linen. Linen was often used for undergarments, shirts, and sheets.
* Leather: Used for shoes, belts, and sometimes for coats and tunics, especially in colder regions.
* Fur: A luxury item, primarily used for linings or trim.
* Silk: A rare and expensive fabric, imported from the East, primarily for the wealthy.
Process:
1. Shearing: Wool was sheared from sheep, often in the spring.
2. Cleaning: The wool was washed to remove dirt and grease.
3. Carding: Wool fibers were teased and aligned using hand-held tools called cards to make it easier to spin.
4. Spinning: Wool fibers were twisted into yarn using a spinning wheel. Linen was also spun.
5. Weaving: Yarn was woven on handlooms to create fabric.
6. Dyeing: Fabrics were dyed using natural dyes derived from plants, insects, and minerals.
7. Cutting and Sewing: Patterns were cut from the fabric using shears, and garments were sewn together using a needle and thread.
Tools:
* Spindle: Used to spin wool into yarn.
* Spinning wheel: A more advanced tool for spinning.
* Handloom: Used to weave fabric.
* Shears: Used for cutting fabric.
* Needle and thread: Used for sewing.
Clothing styles:
* Tunic: A basic garment worn by both men and women. It was a long, loose-fitting garment that reached to the knees or ankles.
* Hose: Trousers worn by men, typically made of wool or linen.
* Cloak: A long, hooded garment worn over other clothes for warmth and protection.
* Dress: Women's dresses were typically long and flowing, often with a belt or sash.
Important Notes:
* Variations: Clothing styles varied by region, social status, and occupation.
* Limited Access: Most people wore simple, practical clothing. Wealthy individuals had access to finer fabrics and more elaborate styles.
* Local production: Most clothing was made at home or by local artisans.
In summary, clothing production in the 13th century was a labor-intensive process that relied heavily on handcraftsmanship and local materials. While simple, it played a vital role in everyday life and reflected the social and economic conditions of the time.