Our history mice have been knitted by one of the museum’s Friends .
She said she could knit one each night but didn’t want to sew them up, nor did she want to dress them ! So that became my job . Sewing up wasn’t too difficult, and I did them in groups of five . As soon as I had the full set of 24, I set to dressing each one in mini historical costumes.
Using the historical sequence set up in the museum I began with Early man . In my mind I walked through the ground floor of Bailiffgate and created religious mice , fighting mice, royals , printers , farmers, school children , injured soldiers and pit men.
Tricky though it was working in miniature, it was great fun . Tiny waist coats . Small dresses. Wee jumpers . Miniature props. But my favourite is my Bondager. She’s so sweet . Full farm workers outfit including the best tiny hat I’ve ever made . Sack of corn and rake at the ready-the children will love her..
A plea to all those who visit the museum. Please go and find my Bondager !
Hilary
Above: The Bondager and friends wait for the children to arrive