Holly Coif, Embroidered 16th Century Coif Cap Kercher - In Stock, Ready to Ship

This handmade linen cap, known as a coif or cap kercher is inspired by a historic extent cap from 1590 - 1610 housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum. Using reference photos, I drafted the pattern shape, then digitized the Holly motif using Hatch embroidery software. I then stitched the Holly motif onto linen fabric with my embroidery machine. I hand stitched the center seam and casing into place, then threaded the casing with a lovely natural linen tape.

This cap fits best over coronet braids, the Tudor Tailor has a wonderful tutorial on how to achieve this look. For folks with short hair like mine, I typically secure the back of my hair into a wig cap, stuff a bit of wool or cotton fluff into the cap and pin into place.