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Main => The Armoury => Topic started by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-07-17, 01:46:09

Title: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-07-17, 01:46:09
http://www.etsy.com/listing/89998648/medieval-celtic-viking-armor-padded?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=gambeson&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_search_type=all (http://www.etsy.com/listing/89998648/medieval-celtic-viking-armor-padded?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=gambeson&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_search_type=all)
Was wondering anyone ever purchase a gambeson here? They reach down to the knees which is JUST the gambeson type I need for my hauberk but I been wondering about durability of them and whatnot. They look like norman era gambesons which is sorta what I am looking for. Just don't like the metal clasp idea I'd rather have laces or buckles.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Thorsteinn on 2012-07-17, 04:45:32
I don't like those fasteners nor that the seller doesn't disclose the materials used. Also why would it not be SCA heavy, or SCA rapier, combat legal?
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Wolf on 2012-07-17, 11:27:50
i am betting it is a "legal disclaimer"

i would replace the metal closures with points.

what is it all made of? arms look kinda tubular.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir James A on 2012-07-17, 17:20:48
It mentions measurements outside of the S/M/L. I wonder if they're tailor made. If so, I bet you could ask for no metal hardware, and what they're made of.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir William on 2012-07-17, 17:28:18
I know this tailor (Dan Desmarais of Morgana's Collection), I've bought from him before...his items are tailor made.  Oh, you can find a goodly amount of his wares on ebaY but he still requires your measurements as he makes them to fit.   If you want to know anything about it, just email him directly- he's pretty responsive.  Sort of pricey too but as in all things worth having, you get what you pay for.  I don't know if this guy's ever done any SCA or other European martial art, but he knows how to sew and stitch.  Just make sure you're certain of your measurements, don't guess because he will make them to order.

As for his padded garments, I have no experience...I've bought a pair of pants, two pair actually, and an open sided surcoat/jupon...the red one I'm wearing in my current avatar pic, actually.  I'd wear that padded gamby w/sleeves as a fall/winter coat!
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-07-29, 22:36:48
I mailed them and it turns out their gambesons are made of cotten inside synthetic padding and linen outside. They also only use 1 layer of padding and they cant make it if it uses buckles and straps. Debating on on where to get one, this is the only knee length gambeson I could find close to the USA but I dont like the idea of using synthetic padding cause my current one has that and it's hot as hell. The main reason I want one is i'm fed up with my maille constantly rubbing up against and hitting my thighs cause my gambeson is too short to reach it.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Thorsteinn on 2012-07-29, 23:58:56
What about http://gambesons.com/ (http://gambesons.com/)? Sew your own (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=397821413590839&l=0a7e9986c8)?
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-07-30, 21:52:12
Because I dont want to pay 300 bucks for arming clothing thats sold cheaper in Europe and isnt even the same period style I want (1100s-1200s) and I lack ANY sewing skills myself. My ex girlfriend offered to make me one but she said layers of gambeson is easier to make than padding it so I was gonna try that myself. Just need a pattern for a 13th century one I dont even want to pad it to be honest cause padded gambesons are a pain in the heat, I just want a layered gambeson with many layers of linen that wont be too hot in the summer.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir William on 2012-07-31, 15:46:52
Ulrich, when it comes to arming clothes, given your size and dimensions, you are much better going with a custom gambeson.  Cheaper does not equal better- spend your budget wisely and you'll be happier overall.  Take it from someone who has spent thousands of dollars on weapons, armor and garments- I've resold over 90% of what I've gotten over the years simply because the fit, finish, quality or whatever else can be off, was off.  Going custom is cheaper but think of it like this:

You can spend $300 on a custom gambeson, or you can spend $300 on three different off the rack gambesons, only to find that the materials and/or workmanship are shoddy, is not as advertised, does not fit, only to have to sell them at a reduced price thereby taking money out of your pocket and finding yourself in the exact same boat you were in before you started.  Can't tell you how many times that's happened to me.

Unless you're going to take the field and actually fight, you need not go full-custom, or worry about synthetic materials (unless you're angling for Living History accuracy) - in that case there are options.  Morgana Collection would be a good choice as it would be custom, but not as expensive as say a Jessica Fuhlen gambeson, like the one Ian had made.

I have an IceFalcon gambeson, paid $150 for it when it was on sale (he does that from time to time, Andre does - here's a link to his site.

http://store.fastcommerce.com/render.cz?method=searchProducts&store=icefalcon&keywords=arming%20cotte&btn_search= (http://store.fastcommerce.com/render.cz?method=searchProducts&store=icefalcon&keywords=arming%20cotte&btn_search=)

The 'light arming cotte' might be exactly what you need.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Wolf on 2012-07-31, 16:41:01
ya your not gonna get off the rack for what you really want. 300 sounds about the going price.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir James A on 2012-07-31, 19:30:20
Sir William speaks the truth. I have 4 or 5 gambesons; I started cheap (about $80), and now have ended up at the $250 revival arming coat. Had I started there, I'd be much better off. I learned just like you did, off the rack, and synthetic, is best suited to monthly, indoor games.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Ian on 2012-07-31, 19:52:34
Sir William speaks the truth. I have 4 or 5 gambesons; I started cheap (about $80), and now have ended up at the $250 revival arming coat. Had I started there, I'd be much better off. I learned just like you did, off the rack, and synthetic, is best suited to monthly, indoor games.

+50

I also learned the hard way.  Wasted money on off-the-rack garbage, wish I went with my trusty revival from the get-go.  Don't go cheap on arming clothes, it is the number one determining factor in how mobile and comfortable you are in armor.  Cheap arming clothes will make you hate your armor.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-07-31, 23:53:42
Yeah I been talking to Robert Coleman about gambesons and I think custom is the way to go, now to find someone willing to make it out of the materials I want it made out of. I want a hemp canvas outer shell to hold up to riveted maille and inside made of linen. Padding wise I want either bamboo or cotton fill because wool would retain heat too much. I need to find someone willing to make one thats a 13th century design though thats a pull over and goes down to my knees. Off the rack stuff just doesnt work for me.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Thorsteinn on 2012-08-01, 01:41:22
Matuls (http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en&IDKategoria=4) might be able to help.

Though it sounds more & more like doing it yourself is the way to go. I have 2 patterns that can help. I made mine with very little experience and it's the best bit of armour I own. Materials wise it was about $90 and more than 10 hours of work but totally worth it!

(yes I'm wearing it in my pic)
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-01, 22:45:00
Yeah I was considering ordering this one
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Classic-Gambeson-Wambais-Aketon-Medium-Renaissance-Coat-Padded-Armour-/251091867838?pt=AU_Costumes&hash=item3a763dd8be (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Classic-Gambeson-Wambais-Aketon-Medium-Renaissance-Coat-Padded-Armour-/251091867838?pt=AU_Costumes&hash=item3a763dd8be)
Cause most custom stuff is in the 300 dollar range which is above my budget. I could always dye it black also. This is also in my period it looks like a 1200s gambeson and its sizing wont be too big on me as I measured the sleeve size.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140715409692 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140715409692)
That one is also a possibility.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Ian on 2012-08-01, 23:18:20
Yeah I was considering ordering this one
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Classic-Gambeson-Wambais-Aketon-Medium-Renaissance-Coat-Padded-Armour-/251091867838?pt=AU_Costumes&hash=item3a763dd8be (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Classic-Gambeson-Wambais-Aketon-Medium-Renaissance-Coat-Padded-Armour-/251091867838?pt=AU_Costumes&hash=item3a763dd8be)
Cause most custom stuff is in the 300 dollar range which is above my budget. I could always dye it black also. This is also in my period it looks like a 1200s gambeson and its sizing wont be too big on me as I measured the sleeve size.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140715409692 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140715409692)
That one is also a possibility.

As long as you realize, both of those gambesons you linked are in Australia.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-01, 23:52:05
Yeah I know they are, thats the only issue is shipping will cost a bit but it's better than settling for something I dont really want just because it's local. All the gambesons I see sold in the USA are 14th century stuff.I dont want a gambeson that doesnt reach down to my knees cause the maille flapping around gets quite annoying. In all honesty all I ever see for sale is 14th century jupons which I think are not even meant for full maille but for maille and plate. Now to make the decision.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Ian on 2012-08-02, 00:34:52
With shipping, those cost approx $200 and $270... you're not too far out of custom gambeson range at that point, and you're taking a risk shipping it around the world to not be completely satisfied, because it's going to be another $70 to ship it back.  It's a risk when dealing with a vendor no one really knows about.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-02, 02:22:02
Yeah thats what bugs me a bit, it's appairently 3 layers of wool felt inside with cotton inside and outside so it's all natural fibers and should be better, though what I want is 2 layers because I think 3 may be too much. I did measure the size of it the sleeves should be perfect length. Maybe I could find someone locally who can make a 13th century gambeson but it WILL have to be custom job with a custom pattern because everywhere I know wants to make that 14th century jupon you see everywhere which isnt the design I want.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir James A on 2012-08-02, 02:44:06
It sounds more and more like you need a custom one. It doesn't have to be ridiculously expensive; pull a pattern or two online and ask the local suit shops / drycleaners, they usually have an in-house seamstress, or can point you towards one.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Thorsteinn on 2012-08-02, 03:51:28
Try here:

http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en&IDProdukt=46&IDKategoria=4&IDPodkategoria=6 (http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en&IDProdukt=46&IDKategoria=4&IDPodkategoria=6)

(http://www.matuls.pl/miniaturki_pic/pic_miniaturka.php?IDPic=46&IDP=1)
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-02, 04:41:15
Yeah I know, I been looking around for a pattern but again all I can find are 14th century ones. Gotta calculate how much one from europe would cost me and how this one from AU would cost me and figure out what i want. My main issue is getting it in time for DoK which custom stuff would take a while to get especially from Europe. Currently I'm thinking about ordering overseas.

http://www.medieval-market.com/details.php?id_towar=60&s=1 (http://www.medieval-market.com/details.php?id_towar=60&s=1)
That one is also the design I want. Seems like everything I want isn't sold in the USA and probably never will be unless I get it custom made in europe or something.
That one Thorsteinn linked to is the exact design I want actually I just dont know if they ship to the USA or if they'll get it done by October which is when I need it.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir William on 2012-08-02, 14:21:44
Ulrich, that last one you posted (http://www.medieval-market.com/details.php?id_towar=60&s=1 (http://www.medieval-market.com/details.php?id_towar=60&s=1)) - for the standard quality you're looking at spending $214.82, not including shipping; $406.18 for the high quality one w/felted wool batting (as opposed to their standard padding option) also not including shipping.  At those prices you're much better off  going with a custom gambeson.  It need not be a Jess Finley, but as with all things worth having, you get what you pay for.  Also, with this one if you pay by PayPal, you have to add in 3.5% in fees to use that option, shipping does not appear to be free.  Some things to consider.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-02, 23:11:01
I emailed Matuls concerning shipping to the USA cause they have the thing I want the most. Currently I am trying to look for people who sew who could possibly make me one. I would prefer mine to me layered rather than stuffed because stuffing makes it a bit hot.
The Australian gambeson I linked to has felted wool batting and is cheaper than the medieval market one. Just not sure about the whole wool thing, I think bamboo padding or cotton would be a LOT cooler, but I am running out of time I need to order soon or else I wont get it in time for days of knights.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-05, 21:20:44
Allright they got back to me. They can ship to the USA for 40 Euros which is about 60-70 bucks, so either way it's gonna cost me the same to ship. Now to take my measurements and get a custom made one from there cause they got exactly what I want. I think I may get the one with mittens but I had people tell me it was meant for a stand alone armor rather than for under maille though the site says it's for under maille. Guess I will ask them again.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Lord Dane on 2012-08-08, 13:21:40
Yeah I was considering ordering this one
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Classic-Gambeson-Wambais-Aketon-Medium-Renaissance-Coat-Padded-Armour-/251091867838?pt=AU_Costumes&hash=item3a763dd8be (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Classic-Gambeson-Wambais-Aketon-Medium-Renaissance-Coat-Padded-Armour-/251091867838?pt=AU_Costumes&hash=item3a763dd8be)
Cause most custom stuff is in the 300 dollar range which is above my budget. I could always dye it black also. This is also in my period it looks like a 1200s gambeson and its sizing wont be too big on me as I measured the sleeve size.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140715409692 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140715409692)
That one is also a possibility.

Try these too Sir Ulrich. They are lightweight & time period to Crusaders.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir William on 2012-08-08, 15:52:14
Those look like later era arming coats, a gambeson from the Crusade era would've been more thickly padded.  Like this one:

(http://i670.photobucket.com/albums/vv64/ebonpaladin/Armor/IcefalconArmingCotteszL.jpg)

Icefalcon carries them, this one just happens to be mine.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-08, 18:52:31
Asked them if they used Paypal 2 days ago no response yet. Getting a bit impatient cause now I'm worried I might not get mine in time when I order it. I was thinking of ordering a full set of arming clothes to save money on shipping plus it would be custom. I did find out the icefalcon ones have a poly fill and cost a little more than the one I want so I am just gonna order custom cause I dont want poly filled. Cept I do think the thin ones arent poly filled. Though I would like a thicker one so the maille is softer on my shoulders.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir William on 2012-08-08, 20:09:55
A padded collar might suit you, Ulrich- try this one:  http://www.ebay.com/itm/Black-Padded-Gorget-Medieval-Armour-Collar-Substrata-protection-chain-mail-/261051237342?pt=AU_Militaria&hash=item3cc7ddc3de (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Black-Padded-Gorget-Medieval-Armour-Collar-Substrata-protection-chain-mail-/261051237342?pt=AU_Militaria&hash=item3cc7ddc3de) - it'll save you from having to buy a whole other gambeson (I'm assuming you've been wearing one all along, it just wasn't as padded as you like it); these guys are in New South Wales (Australia) so shipping's something to think about but since you seem bent on ordering overseas, why not this?  They've got a lot of goods to offer, you might find their gambeson to suit you as well.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-09, 03:27:29
Yeah I am thinking of ordering 2 things from there if the polish dude doesn't get back to me soon. They got nice stuff there and well I DO need a new aketon because my current one doesnt go down to my knees thus making the maill flap around and ruin my braies and chausses. Maybe I could get padded cuisses to solve that? But that will be my last ditch method if I cant get a new gambeson by October.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Ian on 2012-08-09, 14:59:31
From Matul's website, under the tab 'How to Order'

Quote
Payment Procedure
The easiest way to pay is by money transfer. Some of our clients send money by registered mail as it is less expensive. To date we have not experienced any problems, however this method is not recommended.
You may wish to pay the full sum when placing your order. Alternatively, you can send an initial installment of 40% of the cost of the item. We regret we are unable to undertake any work on your order until this minimum payment is made. We wait for money transfer 14 days, after that time your order will be canceled.
We provide payment details by e-mail with confirmation of your order.

So you're looking at an international money transfer, typically done electronically through your bank.  They will provide the necessary information regarding where to transfer the money to at time of order placement. Nothing on their literature indicates they accept Paypal.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir William on 2012-08-09, 15:08:47
Yeah I am thinking of ordering 2 things from there if the polish dude doesn't get back to me soon. They got nice stuff there and well I DO need a new aketon because my current one doesnt go down to my knees thus making the maill flap around and ruin my braies and chausses. Maybe I could get padded cuisses to solve that? But that will be my last ditch method if I cant get a new gambeson by October.

You could use padded cuisses but if you're thinking of the ones like at Medieval Collectibles I can tell you they won't fit you.  They didn't fit me either, I have slim legs so such things are often a problem for me.  You could also tie the lower front and back parts of your hauberk so that they sit tighter against the leg, thereby mitigating the flapping about that's causing havoc with your clothing.  I do that and its a lot less annoying to walk about in maille.  When I say tie, I'm talking about the inner corner of the slit at the bottom...use leather laces to tie the front to the back around the inside of your thigh.

Also, since you just setup a PayPal account, you probably want to continue using it- I'm not saying Matuls is bad, but for myself I try to avoid wire transfers unless you know who you're dealing with and trust them.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-19, 02:59:02
http://www.aketon.pl/index.php?lang=en&view=213&id=&cat= (http://www.aketon.pl/index.php?lang=en&view=213&id=&cat=)

Found this place via google. I sent them an email asking them if they ship to the USA and if they can get it in time for Days of Knights. Their stuff seems to be cheaper than the other place as well, much cheaper. Looks to be similar quality too and they offer it hand sewn as well.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir William on 2012-08-21, 15:56:11
Hard to tell quality by pictures, Ulrich- keep that in mind.  Also, you get what you pay for...go for cheap, that's what you'll get.  Still, young as you are, you can deal with the disappointment of receiving substandard equipment, it is part of the learning process and as much as we try to caution you from it, sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do, right?
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-22, 02:44:32
Yeah I would go custom but I dont got much time so I think I am gonna order this:
http://www.forgeofsvan.com/en/vmchk/Gambesons/Gambeson-type-2/Detailed-product-flyer.html (http://www.forgeofsvan.com/en/vmchk/Gambesons/Gambeson-type-2/Detailed-product-flyer.html)
It's in the color I want it's a pull over and it reaches to the knees so it's obviously made for maille. They also offer padded chausses there for the same price as the GDFB ones that would be longer and actually would FIT me.. It may be cotton but for a medieval crusader it wouldn't be out of place. It's also rather affordable so I wont be burning money away at the rate I already did.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir James A on 2012-08-22, 14:42:49
Yeah I would go custom but I dont got much time so I think I am gonna order this:
http://www.forgeofsvan.com/en/vmchk/Gambesons/Gambeson-type-2/Detailed-product-flyer.html (http://www.forgeofsvan.com/en/vmchk/Gambesons/Gambeson-type-2/Detailed-product-flyer.html)
It's in the color I want it's a pull over and it reaches to the knees so it's obviously made for maille. They also offer padded chausses there for the same price as the GDFB ones that would be longer and actually would FIT me.. It may be cotton but for a medieval crusader it wouldn't be out of place. It's also rather affordable so I wont be burning money away at the rate I already did.

I've seen good reviews of him
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir William on 2012-08-22, 14:49:57
A pullover gambeson means there won't be much you can do if it doesn't fit well.  A gambeson should be tight to the body so make sure he understands just how slim you are.  It wouldn't do to get a gambeson only to find that it fits you like a parachute.  Put on your soft kit or whatever you plan to wear under the gambeson, then take your measurements.  You know, length of your arm, the girth of your chest at full extension (take a deep breath and hold), same at the navel line, and measure across the back of your shoulders as well as from the top of your shoulder to wear you want the hemline to fall (or you could just measure from the top shoulder of your hauberk to the bottom of it).
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-23, 03:35:58
I am extremely frustrated with finding a gambeson and padded chausses, it's like really causing me a LOT of stress. Though I did find this place http://badassgarb.com/Home.aspx (http://badassgarb.com/Home.aspx) And they're located in Maryland which isnt far from where I live. I sent them an email about it from the pics I saw of their stuff it looks as good as the stuff I saw from Poland. Hope they get back to me soon.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-23, 08:41:29
Yup she emailed me back within an hour of me sending it. Very fast very detailed email. She offers gambesons at a customized level as long as I want any color I want ect all for 220 which means I'd be paying the same amount if I bought at the polish place.. She said she'd get back to me on the chausses which I gotta wait on. I am gonna be getting this from her as soon as I can because she's rather closeby as well so shipping wont be too big an issue (in maryland which isnt far from jersey). Using google on gambeson is how I found her place.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir James A on 2012-08-23, 14:28:32
Cool, that seems like a good option. And if it needs adjustments, back and forth shipping will be quick, too. At $220 + shipping, you're not really far outside of custom territory for some places, either - just an FYI on that.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir William on 2012-08-23, 14:41:39
I came across Bad Ass Garb a few months ago...kept them in the lineup of accoutrements sites but haven't ordered from them as of yet.  That they are in MD is a plus...but not many people know of them, I don't know a thing about how good (or bad) their work is.  It looks good enough, that's for sure.

Sir James, since they'll customize the garment to Ulrich's measurements, it should do well enough...I'd consider it myself if I didn't already have one.
Title: Re: Gambesons at Etsy
Post by: Sir Ulrich on 2012-08-24, 01:53:58
Yeah they're all custom made, I am emailing her about it currently they look rather nice from the pics I saw on here http://www.dagorhir.com/forums/index.php?topic=23432.0 (http://www.dagorhir.com/forums/index.php?topic=23432.0)
Just gotta ask her if they can be made to be pullover with buttons on the side rather than front so they look like maciejowski bible gambesons. This is a much better buy than ordering it from Poland or Australia and paying a huge amount for shipping. They look to be made of a similar material too, linen rather than cotton. I just googled gambeson and saw pics of them and thats how I found this place. Glad I did too I was close to ordering overseas.