About

The Hands

I’m Elizabeth Ernst, a domestic historian and lifelong crafter from Kansas City, MO. After following a crooked path through vocal music and library work (still great passions of mine), I finally settled in Wichita, KS, where I worked for several years with a local history museum. I now craft out of a stable-turned-cottage where I live with my wonderful partner, two cats, and a miniature dachshund.

The Making

I craft each reproduction using historically available techniques. Any piece through 1850 is hand-stitched, while anything 1851-1970 is sewn on my 1898 treadle sewing machine, Florence (the Machine).

The History

While true “historical accuracy” is impossible, I do my best to create pieces that are reasonably close. I currently specialize in the mid/late-Victorian era, but I am always looking for an opportunity to try something new.