• GUNNAR • Hand-Sewn Viking Age Tunic | Thin Twill Wool | Complete Haithabu Reconstruction
MUSEUM-GRADE HAITHABU RECONSTRUCTION Archaeological Precision in Every Detail
FRAGMENT-SPECIFIC CONSTRUCTION This exceptional reconstruction draws directly from multiple authenticated Haithabu textile fragments, offering museum-quality accuracy:
Upper Construction: • Fragments 72 & 73: Precise top construction methodology • Documented oval neckline treatment • Period-accurate armhole shaping
Sleeve Construction (Fragments 57 & 28a): • Reconstructed Hedeby sleeve pattern • Archaeological evidence-based elbow reinforcement • Documented wrist split detail • Wool-on-wool construction technique
Skirt Design (Fragment H55A): • 12-panel archaeological reconstruction • 8 trapezoid panels • 4 triangular panels • Quarter-section preservation informing complete circumference
Hem Treatment: • Fragment 6B methodology • Authenticated edge finishing technique • Period-appropriate wool thread application
CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES • Every seam hand-sewn using documented Viking Age techniques • Backstitching: 3-5 mm length, 2 mm spacing • Whipstitch: 3-4 mm spacing on edges • Reinforced stress points documented in fragments • Thread twist and thickness matching archaeological examples • No machine stitching used
MATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS • Premium thin twill wool (290 g/m²) • Historically accurate 2/2 weave structure • Archaeological weight correspondence • Represents advanced Viking Age tailoring techniques • Shows sophisticated pattern development from earlier finds • Demonstrates Hedeby's influence on garment construction
COLOR COLLECTIONS Our historically inspired color palette is divided into three distinct collections:
Natural Shades Collection: • White - Pure undyed wool • Light Gray - Natural wool tone • Dark Beige - Earth-toned neutral • Camel - Warm natural shade • Walnut Brown - Deep natural tone
Yellow and Red Shades Collection: • Honey Yellow - Warm golden tone • Camel - Rich earth shade • Orange - Vibrant warm hue • Pink - Soft rose tone • Terracotta Red - Deep earth red • Red - Rich crimson • Lavendel - Subtle purple tone
Green and Blue Shades Collection: • Light Green - Soft sage tone • Bronze Olive Green - Deep earth green • Light Blue - Sky blue shade • Petrol Blue - Deep water tone
AVAILABLE VARIATIONS Each color collection offers:
• Neckline Options:
- Oval (based on Fragments 72 and 73)
- Keyhole variation • All variations feature the same museum-quality construction and archaeological accuracy
SELECTING YOUR GUNNAR TUNIC Choose your preferred options through the product selection menu: • Color collection • Specific shade • Size • Neckline style
IDEAL FOR: • Museum Collections and Exhibitions • Academic Research and Documentation • Professional Historical Interpretation • High-Level Reenactment Events • Archaeological Research Centers
Each GUNNAR tunic is individually created with museum-level attention to detail, supported by extensive archaeological documentation. This garment represents not just clothing, but a tangible connection to Viking Age craftsmanship, suitable for the most discerning institutions and researchers.
Processing Time: Due to the detailed hand-construction process, please allow 120 days for completion.
• Historical reenactors seeking documented authenticity
• Museum demonstrations and educational displays
• Living history events and presentations
• Academic research and historical interpretation
• Educational institutions and heritage centers
• Hand-sewn using documented techniques
• Authentic seam placement
• Historical hem construction
At MIMIRS SAUM, every garment is crafted with care and attention to historical accuracy. All our pieces are made-to-measure based on your measurements, though occasionally we have ready-made garments available.
Ready-Made Products
- Clearly labeled as "Ready Made" in the product title
- Available in our storage and ready to ship
- Shipped within 5 business days if no adjustments are needed
- Processing time may extend slightly if adjustments are requested
Made-to-Measure Products
Every garment listed on our website is hand-sewn specifically for you based on your measurements.How it works:
- Choose your preferred color from available options
- Provide your measurements at checkout in the notes section, or email them to us at contact@mimirs-saum.com after purchase
- Once payment and measurements are received, your order enters our production queue
- Processing time varies based on season and order volume, with a maximum of 120 days during peak periods
Need it urgently? Contact us at contact@mimirs-saum.com and we'll do our best to expedite your order.
Measurement guidance: Not sure how to measure? We'll provide detailed instructions after your purchase, or contact us anytime for assistance.
Special requests: Need a non-standard color, plant-dyed fabric, or unique construction? Contact us at contact@mimirs-saum.com to discuss your vision. A 50% advance payment is required for special orders to cover material costs, with the remaining balance due upon completion.
Customize your piece of clothing
A Piece of Living History
What the Archaeological Record Shows
Historical Legacy
Haithabu (Hedeby), the thriving heart of Viking Age commerce (8th-11th century), has yielded extraordinary textile fragments that form the foundation of the GUNNAR tunic. Our reconstruction draws directly from six key fragments, each telling its own story of Norse craftsmanship. Fragments 57 and 28a reveal the sophisticated engineering of the distinctive Hedeby sleeve with its unique elbow reinforcement, while fragments 72 and 73 preserve the precise methodology of top construction and neckline treatment that set Haithabu's garments apart from other settlements.
Archaeological Precision
The remarkable preservation of fragment H55A provides unprecedented insight into the complex twelve-panel skirt design, a testament to Viking Age tailoring expertise. This sophisticated construction, combined with the hem treatment methodology documented in fragment 6B, demonstrates the advanced textile engineering achieved by Haithabu's craftspeople. Each element has been meticulously studied and reproduced, creating a museum-quality garment that serves as both historical document and functional attire.
Authentic Craftsmanship
Every GUNNAR tunic is entirely hand-sewn following documented Viking Age techniques. Our stitching precisely matches the 3-5mm length preserved in Haithabu's textile remains, while the wool thread diameter and twist correspond exactly to archaeological specimens. From the characteristic backstitching of main seams to the 3-4mm whipstitch edge finishing, each construction detail is rooted in historical evidence. We use only premium thin twill wool (290 g/m²), matching the weight and weave structure found in Haithabu's textile fragments.
Documented Techniques from 8th-11th Century Textile Finds
VIKING AGE CONSTRUCTION METHODS ✨ Archaeological Evidence in Every Stitch
CONSTRUCTION METHODOLOGY
Based on Six Key Haithabu Fragments (8th-11th century CE)
Primary Fragment Evidence:
NECKLINE & UPPER BODY (Fragments 72 & 73)
Construction Specifications:
• Opening circumference: 18-20cm
• Seam allowance: 8-10mm
• Edge treatment: 2mm whipstitch
• Reinforcement stitching: 2-3mm
Supporting Evidence:
- Contemporary: Birka Graves (793-972 CE)
- Development: Kragelund find (11th/12th century)
- Regional variation: York textile fragments
SLEEVE CONSTRUCTION (Fragments 57 & 28a)
Engineering Specifications:
• Elbow reinforcement: 22-24cm from wrist
• Wrist split length: 8-10cm
• Attachment spacing: 4mm consistent
• Seam allowance: 8-10mm
Documented Techniques:
• Main seams: 3-5mm backstitching
• Edge finishing: 3-4mm whipstitch
• Stress point reinforcement preserved
• Wool-on-wool thread construction
Supporting Evidence:
- Earlier context: Thorsberg finds
- Contemporary: Hedeby harbor settlement
- Later development: Kragelund examples
TWELVE-PANEL SKIRT (Fragment H55A)
Panel Specifications:
• 8 Trapezoid panels
- Graduated width: 30-45cm
- Length: 65-75cm
- Seam allowance: 8-10mm
• 4 Triangular panels
- Base width: 25-30cm
- Gore angles: 45-50 degrees
- Documented placement
Construction Methods:
• Panel joining: 4-5mm stitching
• Hem depth: 12-15mm
• Edge treatment: 2mm whipstitch
• Stress point reinforcement
Supporting Evidence:
- Contemporary: Birka textile corpus
- Development: Hedeby harbor finds
- Regional context: Dublin textile fragments
STITCHING METHODOLOGY
Documented Techniques:
Main Construction:
• Backstitching: 3-5mm length
• Running stitch: 4-6mm spacing
• Seam allowance: 8-10mm consistent
• Thread diameter matching finds
Edge Treatments:
• Whipstitch: 2-3mm spacing
• Hem depth: 12-15mm
• Reinforcement at stress points
• Period-accurate thread tension
Archaeological Verification:
- Primary: Haithabu fragments
- Contemporary: Birka specimens
- Supporting: York & Dublin finds
MATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS
Archaeological Correspondence:
• Premium thin twill wool (290 g/m²)
• 2/2 weave structure
• Thread diameter matching finds
• Wool-on-wool construction
Complete archaeological documentation available upon academic request. Each GUNNAR tunic includes detailed construction notes referencing specific fragment evidence.
Premium Wool - Matching Textile Finds from Viking Age Settlements
Viking Age Wool: Woven to Archaeological Standards
Our offer includes five wool fabrics—each one documented in Viking Age archaeological finds. I've chosen historically accurate colors from Woolsome's collection that match what we see in the evidence. All are 100% highest quality wool.
Thin Tabby 260 g/m²
Plain weave, the lightest option. Documented at Køstrup. Good for dancing, fighting, or warmer months. Breathable, comfortable, historically accurate.
Thin Twill 290 g/m²
2/2 twill, lightweight. Good for layering, summer events, or if you prefer something that breathes. Matches the lighter fragments from Birka and Haithabu. Moves well, drapes well, works spring through autumn.
Broken Twill 370 g/m²
Medium weight, fulled for warmth and durability. Dense, structured, holds up to Scandinavian winters and long event seasons. If you need something that lasts and keeps you warm, this is the one.
Fulled Twill 370 g/m²
Medium weight, fulled for warmth and durability. Dense, structured, holds up to Scandinavian winters and long event seasons. If you need something that lasts and keeps you warm, this is the one.
Handwoven Twill 490g/m²
Handwoven traditional weave. Heavier and coarser, representing practical everyday Viking Age garments. Open structure ensures breathability despite weight. More textured and rustic than finer twills—authentic to working-class finds. Note: More textured feel against skin.
Our Commitment
Each garment is created with the same attention to detail found in Viking Age textiles. Whether you're demonstrating historical techniques at a museum, participating in reenactment events, or simply appreciate historically accurate clothing, our pieces offer both authenticity and functionality.
⏱️ Processing Time: Up to 120 Days
How Your Garment Is Made
Each piece is individually hand-sewn using Viking Age techniques and archaeological evidence. Here's what goes into creating your historically accurate clothing:
🧵 The Creation Process
Our process honors the traditional methods of Viking Age craftspeople:
Mindful Material Preparation
We begin by carefully preparing your chosen fabric—washing, drying, and pressing premium linens from Woolsome's LCP collection or fine wools from the WSF/WTV/WKT/WKP/WCHT collections. This essential step ensures proper fabric behavior and lasting quality.
Historical Pattern Making
Each pattern is thoughtfully drafted based on your measurements and archaeological evidence from sites like Birka and Haithabu, creating garments that are both authentic and perfectly fitted to you.
Precise Cutting
Using traditional techniques, we carefully cut each piece to ensure historical accuracy in shape and grain alignment—crucial for proper drape and authentic silhouette.
Hand-Stitching Legacy
Every single stitch is placed by hand, using historically documented techniques like running stitch, backstitch, and whipstitch that create strong, durable seams. No sewing machines—ever.
Quality Assurance
Each piece undergoes careful inspection and thoughtful preparation for its journey to you, maintaining our strict standards of historical accuracy and craftsmanship.
📋 Important Notes From Your Historical Seamstress
- Your garment's creation begins at order confirmation
- Each piece is crafted individually in the order received
- During festival seasons and markets, the timeline may extend beyond 120 days
- I create each piece in my free time outside my day job
- Quality and historical accuracy are always our primary focus
- Shipping time is additional to the crafting period
- Each order receives individual attention and care
- Your patience ensures historical perfection
Questions during the process? Reach out to contact@mimirs-saum.com—I'll respond as soon as I'm able.
✨ Our Commitment to Craft
At MIMIRS SAUM, we believe true Viking Age craftsmanship cannot be rushed or mechanized. Every garment we create is entirely hand-sewn, stitch by stitch, using the same techniques documented in archaeological findings from Birka, Haithabu, and other Viking Age settlements.
Our dedication to historical accuracy means we work exclusively with premium natural materials—linens from Woolsome's carefully curated collections, fine wools, and authentic silk brocades. Each fabric is chosen not just for its quality, but for its historical accuracy in weight, weave, and characteristics.
When we say "hand-sewn," we mean exactly that. Every single stitch is placed by hand using historically accurate techniques. No sewing machines are ever used in our workshop. This isn't just about creating clothing—it's about preserving and practicing the authentic crafting methods of the Viking Age.Your patience and support make this level of craftsmanship possible. Thank you for valuing historical accuracy and traditional techniques.
A Guide to Historical Garment Measurements Based on Viking Age Findings
📏 HOW TO MEASURE YOURSELF: Essential Measurements Guide
Before You Begin:
• Wear lightweight clothing or undergarments only
• Keep measuring tape snug but not tight
• Measure twice for accuracy
• Request assistance if possible
• Stand straight with arms relaxed at sides
👤 HEAD & NECK MEASUREMENTS
Head Circumference
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your head, approximately 1 inch above your eyebrows.
Neckline at Lowest Point
Measure around your neck at the base where it meets your collarbone—this is where the tunic neckline will sit.
💪 SHOULDER MEASUREMENTS
Shoulder to Shoulder
Measure straight across your back from the outer edge of one shoulder to the outer edge of the other shoulder, following your natural shoulder curve.
Shoulder to Neck
Measure from the outer edge of your shoulder to the side base of your neck (where neck meets shoulder).Shoulder Seam
Measure along the top of your shoulder from the base of your neck to the outer edge of your shoulder.
🎯 CHEST & TORSO MEASUREMENTS
Top of Shoulder to Widest Part of Chest
Measure straight down from the top of your shoulder to the fullest part of your chest.
Chest Circumference
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the ground and your arms relaxed at your sides.
Waistline
Measure around your natural waistline—this is where you would naturally wear a belt, typically the narrowest part of your torso.
Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your hips, keeping the tape parallel to the ground.
⚠️ CRITICAL MEASUREMENT: Side Seam (Chest to Waist)
How to Measure:
Measure straight down from the widest part of your chest to your natural waistline (where you wear your belt).
Why This Measurement is Essential:
The GUNNAR tunic features a historically accurate construction with a sewn seam where the upper body joins the twelve-panel skirt (based on Haithabu Fragment H55A). For authentic Viking Age silhouette and proper drape, this seam MUST sit beneath your belt.This measurement ensures the garment displays the characteristic historical aesthetic documented in archaeological findings from Haithabu. Without this measurement, the tunic may not achieve the proper Viking Age appearance.
🦾 ARM MEASUREMENTS
Outer Arm Length (Shoulder to Wrist)
With your arm slightly bent in a natural position, measure from the outer edge of your shoulder, over your elbow, down to your wrist bone.
Inner Arm Length (Shoulder to Wrist)
With your arm slightly bent, measure from your armpit along the inner arm down to your wrist bone.
Biceps Circumference
Measure around the fullest part of your upper arm with your arm relaxed at your side.
Elbow Circumference
Measure around your elbow with your arm slightly bent in a natural position.
Wrist Circumference
Measure around your wrist bone where the sleeve will end.
Forearm Length (Wrist to Elbow)
With your arm slightly bent, measure from your wrist bone to the point of your elbow.
📏 LENGTH MEASUREMENT
Tunic Length (Shoulder to Knee)
Measure from the top of your shoulder straight down to your knee (or your desired length).Historical Note:
Traditional Viking Age tunics typically fall to mid-knee, as evidenced in period artwork and garment fragments from Haithabu, Birka, and other archaeological sites.
❓ NEED HELP WITH MEASUREMENTS?
If you're unsure about any measurement or need guidance, please contact us before or after placing your order.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter:
Each GUNNAR tunic is individually hand-sewn to your specifications using authentic Viking Age techniques. Proper measurements are essential for achieving both comfort and historical accuracy.
We're Here to Help:
I understands the importance of getting your measurements right. Don't hesitate to reach out with questions—I'd rather help you measure correctly than have you receive a garment that doesn't fit properly.
Carefully Wrapped for the Journey Ahead
✨ From Our Workshop to Every Corner of Midgard
Just as each stitch is placed with purpose and care, we prepare your garment for its journey with equal attention to detail. Every piece is lovingly folded and wrapped in craft paper or wrapping paper, secured with twine, and adorned with flax or evergreen sprigs - as if preparing a special gift for someone dear. This careful presentation ensures your handcrafted treasure not only arrives safely but also provides you with the joy of unwrapping something truly special, whether it's a gift to yourself or someone you cherish.
At MIMIRS SAUM, we believe receiving your garment should be as delightful as wearing it. We've woven together a tapestry of shipping options just for you!
Nórðvegr (Norway)
Where Fjords Guide Our Path
Let your new attire sail swiftly across valleys and mountains!
• Package up to 10 kg: 73.00 NOK
• Package over 10 kg: 135.00 NOK
✨ 3-5 business days
Across the Known Lands
From Miklagarðr to Jórvík
From Hedeby to the lands of the Franks, our garments travel far and wide!
• Package up to 2 kg: 250.00 NOK
• Package up to 5 kg: 416.00 NOK
• Package up to 10 kg: 546.00 NOK
✨ 5-7 business days
To Distant Shores
From Serkland to Vinland
Our creations find their way to the far corners of the world!
• Package up to 1 kg: 348.00 NOK
• Package up to 5 kg: 596.00 NOK
• Package up to 10 kg: 906.00 NOK
✨ 10-21 business days
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & POLICIES
From Our Workshop to Your Door
Like the craftspeople and merchants who traveled the trade routes of the Viking Age, we take care in how your garment reaches you. Here's what you need to know about shipping, customs, and our promises to you.
Swift as Odin's Ravens
Need your garment faster? Express shipping is available upon request. Contact us at contact@mimirs-saum.com to arrange expedited delivery.
A Gift from Valhalla
Orders over 10,000 NOK receive free worldwide shipping—no matter where you are.
Tracking Your Treasure
Every order includes a tracking number sent to your email. Track your garment's journey from our workshop to your door.
Tribute at the Borders
International orders may be subject to customs fees and import duties:
- Customs fees vary by country
- You are responsible for any duties or taxes
- Your package may be held for customs inspection
- We declare accurate values on all customs forms
Questions about your country's import policies? Contact your local customs office before ordering.
The Merchant's Promise
We stand behind our work. Returns accepted within 30 days if your garment is:
- Unworn and unwashed
- With original tags attached
- Unaltered (no modifications)
- In clean, original condition
To start a return, email contact@mimirs-saum.com with your order number.
✨ Ancient Wisdom for Natural Fibers
taking care FOR YOUR Hand-sewn GARMENTS
Like the skilled hands that once cared for precious textiles in Viking settlements, your garment deserves mindful treatment to maintain its beauty through time. Natural fibers respond well to gentle care, rewarding you with years of wear and increasing character with each proper washing.
Washing
• Use cool or lukewarm water for linen and plant-dyed fabrics
• Tepid water for wool to prevent felting
• Hand wash gently, avoiding agitation
• Choose mild, natural soaps suitable for each fiber
• Avoid modern detergents and bleach
• Rinse thoroughly in clean water
• For wool, maintain consistent water temperature to prevent shrinkage
Drying
• Never wring or twist any natural fibers
• Roll in a clean towel to remove excess water
• Lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight
• Shape wool garments while damp
• Allow all pieces to dry completely before storing
• Plant-dyed fabrics should dry in shade to preserve colors
Storage
• Store folded in a cool, dry place
• Keep all natural fibers away from direct sunlight
• Allow fabrics to breathe naturally
• Avoid plastic containers that can trap moisture
• For wool, consider cedar or lavender for natural protection
• Iron linen while slightly damp if needed
• Never iron wool - steam only if necessary
Special Care
• Spot clean when possible
• Address stains promptly with fiber-appropriate methods
• Air between wears to maintain freshness
• Handle with clean hands
• Store away from harsh elements
• For plant-dyed items, avoid prolonged sun exposure
WHO WEARS OUR GARMENTS
✨ FOR THOSE WHO VALUE HISTORICAL ACCURACY ✨
Our handcrafted garments find their way into the hands of those who understand the significance of authentic historical clothing. Each piece tells a story of Viking Age craftsmanship, supported by archaeological evidence and academic research.
Keep me updated
Join Our Historical Journey
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest in historical fashion, exclusive offers, and behind-the-scenes insights. Be the first to discover new arrivals crafted with passion and authenticity!