Beginner’s Tips for SCA Gear: Barter, Create or Purchase

“A man must shape his garment according to his cloth.”
—Proverb, commonly cited in English sources from the 16th century

Let’s be honest—joining a reenactment group like the SCA can feel a bit overwhelming at first. You’re excited to dive in and bring your historical persona to life. Then reality hits: you don’t just need clothes, you need more. You also need a belt. Maybe armor. Camping gear. A fork that doesn’t look like it came from IKEA. And maybe period shoes.

But here’s some good news: the SCA actually has a pretty friendly “entry level.” All that’s officially expected is an attempt at pre-17th-century clothing. One tunic and you’re in. Better yet, it’s full of people who love to make things—and love to help others learn to make things, too.

Still, that helpful spirit can sometimes turn into pressure. You might start feeling like you have to make everything yourself, right away, to be a “real” SCAdian. Not true.

Let’s chat about when it makes sense to make things… and when it’s perfectly smart to just buy them.

Why You Might Want to Make It

1. You’re excited about the project.
If you’re itching to try your hand at sewing, blacksmithing, or tablet weaving—go for it! Making your own gear is one of the most satisfying parts of the SCA. Just start simple. Don’t let your first project be a full Elizabethan court gown unless you’ve got time and a sewing mentor. Baby steps. (And you’ll want something to wear this century.)

2. You don’t mind the process, and buying is too expensive.
If your budget is tight, making things might be your best route. But even DIY has costs—fabric, tools, time—so don’t fall into the trap of thinking free = easy. Upcycling and repurposing is awesome, but it takes know-how.

3. It’s not available to buy.
Going with a more unique persona? It might be hard to find ready-made gear for that rare 11th-century Latvian falconer look. (You trendsetter, you.) Making it yourself—or modifying something—might be the only option.

4. It’s a group thing.
Sometimes your local SCA group might host a sewing circle, armor workshop, or banner-making day. Go! Even if you’re not crafty, group projects are fun and supportive, and someone usually brings snacks.

When It’s Totally Fine (and Smart!) to Buy

1. You hate making things.
Seriously. If sewing makes you cry, buy your clothes. Your time, sanity, and stress levels are worth more than struggling through a tunic you’ll resent forever. There are vendors who do great work—and you’ll look fantastic.

2. You don’t have the time.
Busy life? No judgment. Many folks choose to buy garb or gear just to get started. You can always learn to make stuff later, at your own pace. Some items (like pouches, gorgets or belts) are inexpensive and easy to buy—and can save you hours.

3. The tools and skills needed are beyond reach.
Making a belt? Easy. Making shoes or plate armor? That’s… a whole different animal. Specialized projects often require expensive tools or materials—and a steep learning curve. Sometimes it’s cheaper and faster to just buy it.

4. It’s just not worth it.
Ever price out making a pair of medieval shoes? You might end up spending more on leather than the cost of buying a finished pair. Plus, shoes are fussy. Bad fit = blisters. Save yourself the trouble and buy the boots.

What About Barter?

Bartering is a time-honored SCA tradition. However, if you’re just getting started and don’t have any crafting skills yet, it might be tricky. You probably can’t trade a tunic for a belt if you don’t know how to make either.

That said, bartering your labor might work. Know someone who can sew? Offer to mow their lawn, help with dishes at an event, or set up camp. At big events, some merchants will even trade food and garb in exchange for help in their booth. If you can work, you could offer your services. This is especially true at large site events like Lilies War or Pennsic.

Just ask! The SCA runs on relationships, and folks are often happy to help a newcomer get started.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to make everything. You don’t even have to make anything if that’s not your thing. What matters is that you enjoy the journey. Find a way to feel good in your garb. This applies whether it’s handmade, hand-me-down, or bought online.

Start where you are. Make smart choices. Remember we all began our SCA lives in a similar plight as you have now.

After all, as the very old proverb says: “The hood maketh not the monk.” You don’t need perfect garb or handmade shoes to belong. You just need a spirit of curiosity and be willing to join in. We’re all here to have fun in funny clothes.