Elizabeth I's dress from the Rainbow Portrait is recreated

Question 1

Why did the team decide to embroider the bodice of the gown?

Accepted Answer

To link it to the Bacton Altar Cloth

Question 2

What material is used to add sparkle to the bodice?

Accepted Answer

Passing thread with a silk core and metal wrap

Question 3

What does the presence of eyes and ears on the mantle suggest about Elizabeth I?

Accepted Answer

She was all-seeing and all-hearing

Question 4

What challenge did the team face with the flowers on the gown?

Accepted Answer

Identifying the types of flowers that existed during Elizabeth I's time

Question 5

What is the purpose of the 'bum pad' in the gown?

Accepted Answer

To create the silhouette

Question 6

Why is it difficult to see items from Elizabeth I's time period?

Accepted Answer

There aren't very many around

Question 7

What does the snake jewel on the sleeve indicate about the gown?

Accepted Answer

It might have belonged to Elizabeth I

Question 8

How did the team recreate the eyes and ears on the mantle?

Accepted Answer

By painting and screen printing

Question 9

Why is the discovery of artifacts like the Bacton Altar Cloth important for the team?

Accepted Answer

It provides information to accurately represent historical clothing

Question 10

What is the first step in recreating a historical gown like Elizabeth I's?

Accepted Answer

Working out all the items needed and planning the layers

Question 11

Why do the creators start building the gown from the skin upwards?

Accepted Answer

To follow traditional methods

Question 12

How many people are involved in the research and making of the gown?

Accepted Answer

Five

Question 13

Why is it important to use hand stitching for the finishing touches on the gown?

Accepted Answer

To improve historical accuracy

Questions 13