St. Clair Aeronauts

Steampunk New Year's Eve Tea Party!

2011-11-22T15:17:00.000-08:00

Join us for a Steampunk Tea Party at our house on New Years Eve.

All the fine china hot tea and baked goods (and finger sandwiches!) you can manage and some steampunk parlor games or readings or storytelling or crafts and so on to occupy us until Midnight and beyond.

We live in San Jose, so guests would need to make their way to the South Bay, but we could probably manage some crash space. We also have two indoor cats who are super friendly but shed.

What to Bring:

Yourself
Wayward Friends and Family
Any Small Children you belong to
Something stylish And Steampunky to wear
A Tea Cup
An iPod of music you enjoy
Party games you like to play (hey, we can even keep it Historical! Wink anyone?)
Any celebratory streamers/horns/hats/etc you have hanging around (or kidnap from Target, hehe),
A plate of your favorite finger sandwiches or other savories and an appetite for tea and cake.

We'll privide tea (Black, Green, White, Chai, Roobios, Herbal, Oolong, you name it... its in the Tea Cupboard) and china teapots, the cups and saucers we have and enough baked goods to sink Amsterdam.

When: 8pm, December 31st (7pm if you want to help decorate)

Where: 501 Raymond Ave, San Jose, CA 95128

RSVP Much Appreciated. Last minute attendees, Please don't hesitate to Join us!

As Always, everyone is welcome!

First Class!

2011-09-19T06:57:00.000-07:00

Our first class will be next Sunday, September 25, at 1 pm in San Jose. Parking is tight so best carpool if you can. Please let me know if you are coming so that I have enough supplies (and I can send you detailed directions).

I made another batch of soap last night and this one went perfectly. We will have plenty of castille (olive oil) soap to play with for milling.

Feel free to bring your own additives (such as essential oils and pretty much any food-safe plant matter) next week and we can try them out. The essential oils and some additives (such as dried flowers) can also be used in the bath bombs.

Here is a website with soap ideas: http://www.crafterstouch.com/tip.aspx?tipid=31

See you next week!

Adventures at pH 14

2011-09-11T22:30:00.000-07:00

Soapmaking is not as forgiving (or edible) as candymaking, which I learned/remembered tonight. I tried to make a little batch to play with for the Academy workshop in two weeks and things went really well and much faster than I remembered. So I poured it all into the mold immediately.

whoops

Now I have a batch of "well, let's see what we end up with" instead of a batch of soap. Ah, well. There always tomorrow night.

And clean up will be much easier (if less yummy) than for candymaking.

Sometimes you don't know what you know. And sometimes you don't know that you don't know what you think you know. So practice first.

St. Clair's Academy for Incorrigible Hoydens

2011-08-24T19:33:00.000-07:00

My Fellow Aeronauts,

Recent travels on the Continent (the little European one) have led us to conclude that our Educational Horizons need broadening so we have established St Clair's Academy for Incorrigible Hoydens.

A Hoyden is defined as High-Spirited, Boisterous, and/or Saucy. We do not require that an Aspiring Hoyden be a Lady, or even Female, for that matter, just Incorrigible.

This Academy's purpose is to gather persons with Desirable Skills and set them to sharing said skills. We plan to meet at an Aspiring Hoyden's home for an afternoon to learn a trio of skills.

Students contribute a small tuition ($5 to cover materials and/or refreshments).

We will try to keep our Lesson Trios in line with our Steampunk values of Artifex, Soluta, Letalis (Creative, Independent, Lethal).

Topics currently planned are:

Soap-milling (How to Make "Anything" Soap, creative), Cold Process Soap-making (or Fun with Oils and Caustic Lye, independent), and Bath Bombs (lethal) in San Jose on September 25.

Some sort of Mod skills so that my Nook Color doesn't stick out at Nova Albion for October 23 (details are vague at present; suggestions or volunteers are welcome/desperately needed!)

Paper Gift Boxes (creative), Candied Citrus and Ginger (independent), and Chocolate Truffles (lethal) on November 20

The Hoyden Academy Team

Artifex, Soluta, Letalis

St. Clair Aeronauts Picnic at San Gregorio Beach 7/3

2011-06-27T12:45:00.000-07:00

Our Westercon Plans fell through, but that is no sadness when there is a sunny beach to enjoy. Join us Sunday for a steampunk beach picnic and photoshoot. Wear your favorite steampunk beach attire and prepare for a charming interlude at the sea, snapping period pics and eating tea and sandwiches!

When: Sunday, July 3rd noon - 4pm
Where: San Gregorio State Beach

What to Bring:

Friends and loved ones
Small children if you have them
Steampunk Inspired Beach Wear
A hat or parasol (we expect sunny weather in the 70's)
A blanket or beach chair to sit on
A towel in case you get your feet wet
A camera to snap period pics
Props for fun vignettes
Beach toys for building castles in the sand
Flowy scarves (it will probably be windy)
Goggles so we know you you are
A picnic lunch
A thermous of tea and your favorite tea cup
Something to share

As always, everyone is welcome!

St. Clair Aeronauts will be touching down at Westercon64

2011-06-26T20:46:00.000-07:00

CANCELED. THE AERONAUTS WILL NOT BE ATTENDING WESTERCON64.

The Captain and crew will be manning stations at Westercon64, July 1 - 4.

Come write a letter to someone at the Con or sit a while in the Parlor and enjoy the company of a Steampunk Zeppelin Crew.

Our highly trained Airmail Delivery Persons will be on hand to deliver your letters to friends and acquaintances at the event and best of all, its all Free! (The Queen is picking up the postage!)

Children Especially Welcome!

St.Clair Aeronauts Serving Tea at the SF Tech Shop June 18

2011-06-14T14:20:00.000-07:00

Come by the San Francisco Tech Shop for the League of S.T.E.A.M. show and take some Tea with the St.Clair Aeronauts!

June 18th: 7pm - 10pm
Ladies and Gentlemen! Boys and Girls of all ages!

Join The League of S.T.E.A.M. for an evening of enlightenment and entertainment with your favorite Steampunk supernatural sleuths and paranormal protectors as they present The Benefits of Zombie Domestication!

TechShop San Francisco is proud to host the League's fantastic demonstration followed by a discussion with the League of S.T.E.A.M. themselves to learn how TechShop can help you design and construct your own Steampunk gadgetry.

All the event and ticket info HERE!

Jewelry Making Classes- July 7, 14, 21

2011-05-25T11:46:00.001-07:00

Learn how to make beautiful jewelry including necklaces, earrings and bracelets in these convenient evening classes.

These three classes can be taken together or separately. Each class will concentrate on a different jewelry making technique, including basic wirework, stringing and the use of different kinds of findings.

There are two price options for these classes:

*Come with your own beads, end caps and findings (I will provide all the necessary tools)- $10 per class

*Come with only a desire to learn (I will provide all the necessary tools and materials)- $20 per class

There are 4 openings per class. A place in the class can be secured by submitting payment to Paypal when you sign up for the class. Scholarships are available from the St. Clair Aeronauts for people in need. Please submit a note of explanation. Please email Sophia St. Clair at Stclairaeronauts@gmail.com to reserve your spot in the class. First come first served. The price of the class is non refundable but can be transferred to a later class if you can't make the one you signed up for.

Where: Our House- 501 Raymond Ave, San Jose, CA, 95128
Phone: 925.787.2591

When:
July 7th, 7 - 10 pm: Stringing beads, adding a clasp to make a necklace and using eye pins to make earrings.

July 14th, 7 - 10 pm: Using chain, bead caps and head pins to make a necklace and earrings.

July 21st, 7 - 10pm: Using strung beads, chain, and headpins to create drop necklaces and/or pendants and matching earrings. Using elastic or chain and eye pins to make bracelets.

Find examples of my jewelry HERE

Materials List:

July 7th class:

beadwire
size 1 bead crimps
crimp covers
headpins (at least 4)
beads (aproximately 14" strung together or more)
beadcaps and/or spacer beads (optional)
clasp
earring findings

July 14th class:

headpins (at least 4)
eyepins (at least 12)
beads (aproximately 12" strung together or more)
beadcaps
spacer beads (optional)
16" of chain
clasp
earring findings

July 21st class:

headpins (at least 20)
eyepins (at least 10)
beads (aproximately 12" strung together or more)
beadcaps
spacer beads (optional)
16" of chain
clasp (2 clasps if making a non elastic bracelete)
earring findings
beadwire
size 1 bead crimps
crimp covers

Bustle Class in June- Only 4 openings!

2011-05-25T11:31:00.000-07:00

Note: Bustle examples Here

Design, draft a pattern and sew your own bustle in this two day evening class. Choose from several bustle disigns from historical examples to bustles for belly dancers! Add to your favorite steampunk outfit or just spice up a pair of jeans the next time you go clubbing~

This is a two day evening class. We will draft patterns and cut fabric on the first day and sew the bustle together on the second day. Both days are Tuesdays.

You will go home with a pattern and bustle. No experience necessary.

Only 4 openings available for this class. Cost is $20 per student to be paid by Paypal when you sign up for the class. Scholarships are available from the St. Clair Aeronauts for people in need. Please submit a note of explanation. Please email Sophia St. Clair at Stclairaeronauts@gmail.com to reserve your spot in the class. First come first served. The price of the class is non refundable but can be transfered to a later class if you can't make this one.

There is a high demand for this class, so please do not take one of the few positions unless you really mean to attend. I hate to see a long wait list and then get a last minute cancellation.

Bustle Class:

Where: Our House- 501 Raymond Ave, San Jose, CA, 95128
Phone: 925.787.2591
Time: Part 1: Tuesday, June 21st, 7pm - 10pm
Part 2: Tuesday, June 28th, 7pm - 10pm

What to bring:
Whatever you like to drink (we have water and tea available but that is it...)
Pens, Pensils, Project book or paper for notes.
Newspaper (for your pattern)

Minimalist Bustle requirements:
Regular hand sewing needle
Thread to match your fabric
Between 1 and 4 yrd of fabric
Spool of ribbon at least 1/2" or wider (minimum 4 yards)
Scissors
Seam ripper
Pins
Fabric chalk
Extra machine needles (mostly size 11 or 14)

For more complex Bustles add to the above list:
Contrasting fabric or fabric scraps (at least 1 yard total, more is always better for complexity)
Buttons (1 - Unlimited!), grommets or hooks
More ribbon in different colors and widths (you will need 1" ribbon to make proper ribbon roses and such)
Lace or other trim (even scraps can be useful, but you can do a lot with 2 yards or more (if you add tassel trim this becomes a dryclean only item)
Random fabric accents (doilies, patches, sequin decorations, embroidered bits, vintage scraps, beads, bells, tassels, etc)

I have access to at least 3 sewing machines. Bring your own if you like....

Fabric Types:
Brocades and upholstery fabric provide a firm foundation but do not always hang or drape nicely.
Linen always drapes beautifully and has a lovely texture. Get yours at a Bulk or Bolts End store for a reasonable price or buy something made out of linen at a thrift store. Don't buy linin at JoAnns. Its highway robbery what they charge!
Above also applies to wool and wool blends
Cotton hangs well, is durable and washable. Plus it breaths.
Crepe Back or Suade Back Satin is fine and nice and heavy. Do not get cheap $2 satin. It will melt in the sewing machine.
Home decorating fabrics also work, Sometimes. They tend to be stiff and scratchy or easily unravel. Check that they don't have glue on the back (used for furniture) and try to get things with at least some natural fiber content if you can.
Special occasion fabrics follow the same rule.

I have one machine that will sew thin garment weight leather.

Note: Ruffles require twice as much fabric as the length you want the ruffle. Pleats require 3 times as much fabric.

Fabric Stores:

Discount Fabrics: Two Locations- Berkeley and SF- http://www.discountfabrics-sf.com/
Fabrics R Us: San Jose- http://www.yelp.com/biz/fabrics-r-us-san-jose
SCRAPS (Goodwill for craft supplies, esp. Fabric and trim): SF- http://www.scrap-sf.org/

Cargo Bloomers Class in June- Only 4 openings!

2011-05-25T11:20:00.000-07:00

Design, draft a pattern and sew a pair of Cargo Bloomers at this two day class. Not only are they comfortable in hot weather and attractive on all body types, but they are practical too!

This is a two day evening workshop. We will draft patterns and cut fabric on the first day and sew the bloomers together on the second day. Both classes are Thursday Evening.

You will go home with a pattern and a pair of cargo bloomers. No experience necessary.

Only 4 openings available for this class. Cost is $20 per student to be paid by Paypal when you sign up for the class. Scholarships are available from the St. Clair Aeronauts for people in need. Please submit a note of explanation. Please email Sophia St. Clair at Stclairaeronauts@gmail.com to reserve your spot in the class. First come first served. The price of the class is non refundable but can be transfered to a later class if you can't make this one.

There is a high demand for this class, so please do not take one of the few positions unless you really mean to attend. I hate to see a long wait list and then get a last minute cancellation.

The Details:

Where: Our House- 501 Raymond Ave, San Jose, CA, 95128
Phone: 925.787.2591
Time: Part 1: Thursday, June 16th 7pm - 10pm
Part 2: Thursday, June 23rd 7pm - 10pm

What to bring:

I have access to at least 3 sewing machines. Bring your own if you like....

Snacks if you are likely to want them
Whatever you like to drink (we have water and tea available but that is it...)
Pens, Pencils, Project book or paper for notes.
Newspaper and tape (for your pattern)

Cargo Bloomers Materials:

Enough fabric to go from your waist to the ground twice. Generally between 2 and 3 yrds of fabric.
Regular hand sewing needle
Thread to match your fabric
Scissors
Seam ripper
Pins
Fabric chalk
Extra machine needles (mostly size 11 or 14)
Enough no roll elastic to go around your waist and both ankles.

To Decorate your cargo pockets and bloomers:

Ribbon in different colors and widths (you will need 1" ribbon to make proper ribbon roses and such)
Lace or other trim (even scraps can be useful, but you can do a lot with 2 yards or more (if you add tassel trim this becomes a dryclean only item)
Random fabric accents (doilies, patches, sequin decorations, embroidered bits, vintage scraps, beads, buttons, bells, tassels, etc)

Fabric Types:
Natural Woven Fabrics: 100% cotton or linen is the best way to go. Anything else, especially synthetics or brocades, will be hot and uncomfortable. Also, you can wash linen and cotton. Please no knitt or stretchy fabrics.

I have one machine that will sew thin garment weight leather.

Fabric Stores (other than Joe-Ann's and Hancock Fabrics):

Discount Fabrics: Two Locations- Berkeley and SF- http://www.discountfabrics-sf.com/
Fabrics R Us: (best place to by $4 linen!) San Jose- http://www.yelp.com/biz/fabrics-r-us-san-jose
SCRAPS (Goodwill for craft supplies, esp. Fabric and trim): SF- http://www.scrap-sf.org/

Craft Centric Garage Sale

2011-05-07T10:03:00.000-07:00

Come by and browse a collection of arts and craft accessories by local artists. Many Gifts for Mom. Very reasonable prices.

When: Saturday, May 7 Noon - 4pm
Where: Corner of Scott Street and Raymond Ave in San Jose, 95128

Procedes go to support the St. Clair Aeronauts Project!

Ever Want to Be an Aeronaut?

2011-04-29T10:29:00.000-07:00

The Crew of the St. Clair Aeronauts is shorthanded for Maker Faire this year. We're looking for a few good steamy people to lend a hand. Contact me at stclairaeronauts @ Gmail . com if you are interested....

(Almost) May Day Picnic- Wicked Plants at the Conservatory of Flowers in SF

2011-04-11T21:31:00.000-07:00

April showers bring May flowers and apparently, some of those flowers can KILL you!

The Lovely Amy G brought this exhibit to our attention and it seems the perfect place for the Annual Aeronauts May Picnic and Visit to a Creepy Location. The Conservatory is hosting a special exhibit:

Wicked Plants: Botanical Rogues & Assassins Northern California Author Amy Stewart’s 2009 New York Times Bestseller, Wicked Plants: The Weed that Killed Lincoln’s Mother & Other Botanical Atrocities comes to deadly life at the Conservatory of Flowers this summer

The by line from their web page says it all, people:

"Paralysis, strangulation, derangement – these are just a few of the misdeeds of the plant kingdom as chronicled by award-winning author Amy Stewart in her 2009 New York Times Bestseller, Wicked Plants: The Weed that Killed Lincoln’s Mother & Other Botanical Atrocities. And now, something wicked this way comes. Building on the fascinating plant portraits in Stewart’s book, the Conservatory introduces visitors to living examples of dozens of infamous plants that have left their mark on history and claimed many an unfortunate victim. As visitors enter the exhibition, they find themselves in a mysterious, untended yard behind a ramshackle old Victorian home. Peeking through the window, it’s clear that a crime has just taken place...."

SO, wear your Best Steampunk Black and Green (for Mourning or Victory depending on your favorite side), bring a picnic lunch and something to share, tote in a thermous of Tea to invigorate you in the presence of such evil (and because its cold in SF) and Join US....

Explorers and Scientific Gentlemen and Ladies especially welcome. We would hear your stories of daringly taming the wild jungles and dangerous gardens of the Continent!

The Particulars...

When: April 30th, 2011, Noon for lunch, 2pm for the Exhibit.

Where: San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers, Golden Gate Park. 100 John F. Kennedy Drive San Francisco, CA 94118 Lunch will be on the Lawn just below the Conservatory on the right hand side, between the flowerbeds and the trees. Those meeting us just for the Exhibit should join us at the main entrance to the Conservatory at 2pm.

What to Bring:

Friends and companions

Small children, if you have them

A picnic lunch

A thermous of your favorite tea

Your best traveling teacup

Something to share (sandwiches and baked goods are ALWAYS welcome!)

Something to sit on (the grass can be damp)

Your magnifying glass

Your camera

$7 to get in to the Conservatory ($5 for residents and children)

Goggles, Bustles or other Steampunk Accoutrement so we know who you are!

As always, everyone is welcome!

See photos of our last trip to the Conservatory HERE.

See photos of last year's picnic and trip to the Winchester Mystery House HERE.

St. Clair Aeronauts at Maker Faire 2011

2011-03-28T12:20:00.001-07:00

You too can meet Capt. St. Clair and his crew! Be a Part of History....Alternate History!

We will have a area in the San Mateo Maker Faire for the StClair Aeronauts Steampunk Airmail Delivery Service.

We'll have parchment paper and pen and ink. We'll have Airmail stamps circa 1883. We'll have envelope paper and envelope patterns (we'll even have a little glue!). And, of course, we will have our fearless crew of Delivery persons in Uniform to deliver your precious messages!

So come by, and write a letter to someone at the event. You can pen a criptic message, or start a short story in the middle of the action. Make your envelope, address it and add a stamp and we'll make every effort to deliver it that day.

You'll hear our crew wandering Maker Faire exclaiming. "Airmail, Airmail Delivery for...." Just imagine your own name there and take home a memento of the 2011 Maker Faire.

Or, if you don't care to write a letter, come sit in the parlor and watch the busy world go by and bustling airmail delivery persons go about their business... and be sure to bring your camera to snap some action shots with a few useful steampunk props and members of the crew!

See Pictures of the St. Clair Aeronauts in action HERE.

See Video of First Mate, Mrs. St.Clair HERE (about 2 minutes in)

Want to see some letters from our first event? Check out Letters written for the Sunnyvale Steampunk Convention, 2008 HERE.

Summer Sewing Classes and Workshops 2011

2011-03-28T12:16:00.001-07:00

Summer Sewing Classes, sponsored by the St. Clair Aeronauts
Learn to modify and sew your own clothes and accessories!
Learn to design and draft your own patterns!
Stay busy over the summer!

Sophia St. Clair will be offering beginning sewing and pattern drafting classes this summer in her home. All classes are for beginners and intermediate sewers. No experience is necessary. Mrs. St. Clair also has sewing machines and other necessary sewing tools but there are only 4 places in each class. Classes are $10 - $20. Scholarships are available. Please inquire if you would like to apply for the St. Clair Crafters Scholarship. Students are responsible for purchasing materials like cloth, patterns, buttons and thread. A list of needed items will be given out before each class.

Two types of classes:

BROP- (Bring Your Own Project)- Know what you want, but don't know how to make it? Bring your materials and we will make it together. I can teach you how!

One Day Workshops- Look for one day workshops on making Bustles, Bloomers, Bags, Spats and more. Even more topics on demand. Tell me what you want and I'll make a class for it! Show up with your materials and go home woth a finished piece.

Interested? Contact Sophia St. Clair to get on the mailing list, sign up for classes or find out more:

Stclairaeronauts@gmail.com
Stclairaeronauts.blogspot.com
925.787.2591

Hello to all our new Nova Albion Friends!

2011-03-28T12:06:00.001-07:00

It was such a pleasure and delight to meet so many fabulous people!

Do drop us a line if you want to be on either or both list:

Class email lists

Events and Craft Night email lists

We can be reached at: stclairaeronauts@gmail.com

And we are always looking for new crew! Don't be shy!

Steampunk New Years Eve Tea Party 2011

2010-12-19T11:03:00.000-08:00

Steampunk Weekend in SF in October

2010-08-03T12:07:00.000-07:00

Looks like I am putting this together.... email us at stclairaeronauts@gmail.com if you want to be on the mailing list to get more info!

Friday, Oct. 8th: Dinner at the Basil Canteen (http://www.basilthai.com/canteen/) and then off to the DNA Lounge to see Abney Park.

We might get a hotel room for the weekend....There are also a number of terrific Bed and Breakfasts....

Saturday, Oct. 9th: We will sleep in, then wander around China Town for an impromptu China Town Self Guided Walking Tour and meet up in the late afternoon for High Tea at the Samovar Tea Lounge (http://samovarlife.com/).

Sunday, October 10th: Head off to the SF Maritime Museum to see the 19th century cargo ship the Balclutha and get pics taken in front of some period scenery! (http://www.nps.gov/safr/) (http://www.nps.gov/safr/historyculture/balclutha.htm) We might even turn the pics into Old Timey Post Cards if they come out well enough...

Let me know if you are interested in participating any any of these events with us.... We would definately need reservations for the Samovar Tea Lounge and the Basil Canteen, but people could just show up to the other events if we nailed down a location and a time....
Join us for one of them, or more than one!

Your Event Mistress,

Sophia St. Clair

New items at the St. Clair Aeronauts Etsy Shop

2010-06-27T21:33:00.000-07:00

Purses and Bustle and Zeppelins, Oh My!

Get them at the St. Clair Aeronauts Etsy Shop!

Private Sewing Classes This Summer. San Jose

2010-06-13T15:10:00.000-07:00

Have you got a sewing project in mind that you think would be perfect, but you don't have the skill to make it on your own? Consider taking a private sewing lesson with Sophia St. Clair of the St. Clair Aeronauts.

I have been sewing my own clothes and costumes for over 20 years and I have been designing my own patterns and pieces for over 10. On top of that I am an education professional, teaching high school history for over 15 years. I know how to break complex tasks into do-able pieces and I know how to teach skills and technique to beginners.

I also have a dedicated sewing room with all the tools of the trade, so you don't even need to own a sewing machine to take these lessons.

Check out some of the things I've designed and made Here.

Evening classes can be scheduled Monday or Wednesday 6pm - 10pm or for the hours you specify- $30

Day classes can be scheduled Wednesday, Thursday or weekends from 11am - 6pm or for the hours your specify- $50

You bring the ideas and materials and we'll make your project together.

Contact Me at Stclairaeronauts@gmail.com

Cargo Bloomers Sewing Class, San Jose, July 11th

2010-06-13T14:29:00.000-07:00

Design, draft a pattern and sew a pair of Cargo Bloomers at this one day class. Not only are they comfortable in hot weather and attractive on all body types, but they are practical too!

You will go home with a pattern and a pair of cargo bloomers. No experience necessary.

Only 4 openings available for this class. Cost is $20 per student to be paid by Paypal when you sign up for the class. Scholarships are available from the St. Clair Aeronauts for people in need. Please submit a note of explanation. Please email Sophia St. Clair at Stclairaeronauts@gmail.com to reserve your spot in the class. First come first served.

There is a high demand for this class, so please do not take one of the few positions unless you really mean to attend. I hate to see a long wait list and then get a last minute cancellation.

The Details:

Where: Our House- 501 Raymond Ave, San Jose, CA, 95128
Phone: 925.787.2591
Time: Sunday, July 11th Noon - 6pm.
3pm- Tea Time (snacks and tea provided by your hostess)
6pm- Clean up and dinner (probably walk to the Chinese or Mexican restaurants 2 blocks from my house)

What to bring:

I have access to at least 3 sewing machines. Bring your own if you like....

Snacks if you are likely to want them
$10 - $15 for Dinner if you will be joining us
Whatever you like to drink (we have water and tea available but that is it...)
Pens, Pencils, Project book or paper for notes.
Newspaper and tape (for your pattern)

Cargo Bloomers Materials:

Enough fabric to go from your waist to the ground twice. Generally between 2 and 3 yrds of fabric.
Regular hand sewing needle
Thread to match your fabric
Scissors
Seam ripper
Pins
Fabric chalk
Extra machine needles (mostly size 11 or 14)
Enough no roll elastic to go around your waist and both ankles.

To Decorate your cargo pockets and bloomers:

Ribbon in different colors and widths (you will need 1" ribbon to make proper ribbon roses and such)
Lace or other trim (even scraps can be useful, but you can do a lot with 2 yards or more (if you add tassel trim this becomes a dryclean only item)
Random fabric accents (doilies, patches, sequin decorations, embroidered bits, vintage scraps, beads, buttons, bells, tassels, etc)

Fabric Types:
Natural Woven Fabrics: 100% cotton or linen is the best way to go. Anything else, especially synthetics or brocades, will be hot and uncomfortable. Also, you can wash linen and cotton. Please no knitt or stretchy fabrics.

I have one machine that will sew thin garment weight leather.

Fabric Stores (other than Joe-Ann's and Hancock Fabrics):

Discount Fabrics: Two Locations- Berkeley and SF- http://www.discountfabrics-sf.com/
Fabrics R Us: (best place to by $4 linen!) San Jose- http://www.yelp.com/biz/fabrics-r-us-san-jose
SCRAPS (Goodwill for craft supplies, esp. Fabric and trim): SF- http://www.scrap-sf.org/

St. Clair Aeronauts Summer Sewing Classes!

2010-05-20T08:31:00.000-07:00

Picnic and Winchester Mystery House Pics...

2010-05-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

We had a truely wonderful time. First, just scads of people showed up for the picnic at the Rose Garden and everyone brought the most delicious baked goods. We made wreaths out of flowers and ran through the roses. And the weather was perfect!

The Winchester Mystery House was also Awesome and we decked the statues with our wreaths.

Here are the pics....

Steampunks in the Sun

May 1st Steampunk Picnic at the SJ Rose Garden and Winchester House Tour

2010-04-04T14:03:00.000-07:00

We can only hope the weather will turn more toward spring and so, let us put our faith in sunshine and flowers and plan a picnic at the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden. We'll sport our sunniest Steampunk outfits, sit on the grass, eat sandwiches, baked goods and other delicious picnic edibles, drink tea and admire the roses. I'll teach a quick tutorial on making flower wreathes for a lady's hair with ribbon, twine and a typical bouquet of fresh cut flowers for anyone who is interested. Then in the afternoon, we can caravan over to the Winchester Mystery House for a proper Steampunk tour. NOTE: Regarding Tickets to the Winchester Mystery House: If we can get 15 or more people to commit by April 20th, we can even get a group rate. Email (Stclairaeronauts@gmail.com) or message me if you want to be part of the group rate. Otherwise it is up to you to get tickets to the 3pm tour.

When: May Day, May 1st, 2010
Picnic at noon in the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden
Grand Estate Tour of the Winchester Mystery House at 3:00pm.

Where:
San Jose Municipal Rose Garden- Corner of Naglee and Garden Drive in San Jose
Winchester Mystery House- 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128

Please join us for a lovely afternoon at one or both parts of the day....

What to bring:
For the Picnic:

Yourselves and your friends and family
Small children if you have them
Goggles so we know you are one of us
Your favorite picnic sandwich
Something to share (enough for yourself and 4 other people)
Thermos of Tea (hot or cold!)
Teacup to drink it from
Blanket to sit on
Camera to catch the flowers and the action
For the Flower Wreath Tutorial:
Ribbon to match what you are wearing
Flowers from the market (longer stems are better, one large bunch will suffice or two small ones)
(Don't worry about twine or scissors. I have all we'll need.)

For the Winchester Mystery House:

Tour Info: Grand Estate TourAdults (13-64) $33.00
Seniors (65+) $30.00
Children (6-12) $30.00

Includes Mansion, Behind-the-Scenes, and House Garden Tours. Children 5 and under are not allowed due to safety concerns

The Winchester Grand Estate Tour is a 2 ½ hour experience that takes guests on a 65-minute guided tour of the Mansion interior and a 55-minute tour of the Behind-the-Scenes.

Also included in the Grand Estate Tour are the Historic Firearms Museum, which houses the largest collections of Winchester Rifles on the West Coast, and the Antique Products Museum. The Antique Products Museum displays a wide variety of everyday products manufactured by the Winchester Firearms Company in the early 1900’s. The Garden Tour is Self Guided.

Tour Length: 2 Hours, 30 Minutes

New Steampunk Medals in our Etsy Shop

2010-04-04T13:57:00.001-07:00

The Medals for Heroic Tea Service won't be around much longer....But we have other medals too. Visit us at www.etsy.com/shop/stclairaeronauts

Nova Albion Pics

2010-03-16T12:12:00.000-07:00

For all you fabulous and wonderful people we met at the Nova Albion Steampunk Expo, here are the pics we snapped with our busy camera. Enjoy!

Nova Albion 2010

Just returned from Nova Albion...

2010-03-14T20:28:00.000-07:00

And I wanted to take a moment to savor the giddy delight of the weekend and to welcome any new friends and neighbors to my corner of the Steampunk Community.

Please don't hesitate to drop me a message if you want to be added to the St. Clair Aeronauts Events email list or Crafts email lists. I may not have captured as many of your aether web addresses as I might of liked.

Gail Carriger if you are reading this: You are a Goddess and we adore you and Alexia!

Kyle, William, and Sean, we are SO glad to have you aboard. Lord knows the Captain and Jason were getting a bit tired of so many ladies.... Sarah, when are you signing on officially....

To everyone who loves letter writing, We'll be at Maker Fair 2010. Don't be too shy to say hello and pen a missive!

Patches and wayward knitted octopi will grace our ETSY shop as soon as we can load the pics. Don't dispair!

Pictures from the event posted soon,

Cheers,

Captain and Mrs. St. Clair

Great times at the Abney Park Show

2010-03-06T19:35:00.000-08:00

How awesome was this event! Hopped on cold medicine but sporting our new threads, we ended up manning the table for the band and helping them sell CD's and posters and patches. It was actually more fun people watching from behind the table than trying to dance in the crush!

The latest modded Steampunk Gear Coat

Hanging with MT, my best sewing student and his new vest!

Bustle Class Info

2010-02-13T20:16:00.001-08:00

This class is now full. Please let me know if you would like to be on the wait list.

Note: Bustle examples Here

Bustle Class:

Where: Our House- 501 Raymond Ave, San Jose, CA, 95128
Phone: 925.787.2591
Time: 10:30am - noon- Visit local Savers Department Thrift store for interesting materials (Optional to class participants. This store is 3 blocks from my house and has a huge selection of used clothes)
Noon - 3pm- Make Bustles!
3pm- Tea Time (snacks and tea provided by your hostess)
3:30 - 6pm- Make Bustles
6pm- Break for dinner (probably walk to the Chinese or Mexican restaurants 2 blocks from my house)
After dinner- Finishing touches and cleanup

What to bring:
Bag lunch
$10 - $15 for Dinner
Whatever you like to drink (we have water and tea available but that is it...)
Pens, Pensils, Project book or paper for notes.
Newspaper (for your pattern)

Minimalist Bustle requirements:
Regular hand sewing needle
Thread to match your fabric
Between 1 and 4 yrd of fabric
Spool of ribbon at least 1/2" or wider (minimum 4 yards)
Scissors
Seam ripper
Pins
Fabric chalk
Extra machine needles (mostly size 11 or 14)

For more complex Bustles add to the above list:
Contrasting fabric or fabric scraps (at least 1 yard total, more is always better for complexity)
Buttons (1 - Unlimited!), grommets or hooks
More ribbon in different colors and widths (you will need 1" ribbon to make proper ribbon roses and such)
Lace or other trim (even scraps can be useful, but you can do a lot with 2 yards or more (if you add tassel trim this becomes a dryclean only item)
Random fabric accents (doilies, patches, sequin decorations, embroidered bits, vintage scraps, beads, bells, tassels, etc)

I have access to at least 3 sewing machines. Bring your own if you like....

Fabric Types:
Brocades and upholstery fabric provide a firm foundation but do not always hang or drape nicely.
Linen always drapes beautifully and has a lovely texture. Get yours at a Bulk or Bolts End store for a reasonable price or buy something made out of linen at a thrift store. Don't buy linin at JoAnns. Its highway robbery what they charge!
Above also applies to wool and wool blends
Cotton hangs well, is durable and washable. Plus it breaths.
Crepe Back or Suade Back Satin is fine and nice and heavy. Do not get cheap $2 satin. It will melt in the sewing machine.
Home decorating fabrics also work, Sometimes. They tend to be stiff and scratchy or easily unravel. Check that they don't have glue on the back (used for furniture) and try to get things with at least some natural fiber content if you can.
Special occasion fabrics follow the same rule.

I have one machine that will sew thin garment weight leather.

Note: Ruffles require twice as much fabric as the length you want the ruffle. Pleats require 3 times as much fabric.

Fabric Stores:

Discount Fabrics: Two Locations- Berkeley and SF- http://www.discountfabrics-sf.com/
Fabrics R Us: San Jose- http://www.yelp.com/biz/fabrics-r-us-san-jose
SCRAPS (Goodwill for craft supplies, esp. Fabric and trim): SF- http://www.scrap-sf.org/

I Know I will think of a few more things after I send this, so stay tuned for more...

Cheers,
Sophia

Steampunks at Stitches, 2010

2010-02-13T20:06:00.000-08:00

Ah... Stitches! Four Football Fields of Yarn, String, Wool, Needles, Hooks, Spacers, Beads, Books, Ribbon, Patterns, Buttons, Jewelry and... Vinegar (we don't know why).

Join your fellow South Bay Steampunks at the Premier Knitting, Crochet, and Fiber Arts Expo.

The Convention Center is pretty enormous, and we won't want to stick together much with so much to see and do, but let us at least meet for tea and cookies at 2pm.

When: Saturday, February 27th at 2:00pm.

Where: Santa Clara Convention Center: 5001 Great America PkwySanta Clara, CA 95054
Inside the Market Hall, to the right of the stage, near the Cafe and the restrooms, next to booth 1131: Bijou Basin Ranch Inc.
. Map Here.

What to Bring:

$6 to get in plus the $2 off on line coupon (otherwise, bring $8 to get in.)
Your wallet (some people may want to call their credit card company and impose a spending limit... I mean you CT!)
A recycled bag or tote to carry all the yarn you are going to buy
A camera to capture all the ideas you are going to want to make later
A notebook to write down all the contact information for all the amazing vendors who will have handed out all their bezillion buisiness cards already
A thermous of tea (unless you want to pay their exorbidant cafe prices)
A cup or mug to drink out of
Cookies to share
Anyone needing a ride from the San Jose area or public transit stops need only contact me at stclairaeronauts@gmail.com or by phone 925 787 2591 to make plans. We have plenty of carpool room!

Once inside we won't hear our cell phones in the din, but we will check them and you can always look for the goggles!

See you there! As Always, Everyone is Welcome!

St.Clair Aeronauts Offer Old Timey Letter Writing

2010-02-13T19:26:00.000-08:00

You too can meet Capt. St. Clair and his crew! Be a Part of History....Alternate History!

We participate in various Bay Area Steampunk events with our StClair Aeronauts Steampunk Airmail Delivery Service.

We have parchment paper and pen and ink. We have Airmail stamps circa 1883. We have envelope paper and envelope patterns (we even have a little glue!). And, of course, we have our fearless crew of Delivery persons in Uniform to deliver your precious messages!

You'll hear our crew wandering events exclaiming. "Airmail, Airmail Delivery for...." Just imagine your own name there and take home a memento of the day.

See Pictures of the St. Clair Aeronauts in action HERE.

See Video of First Mate, Mrs. St.Clair HERE (about 2 minutes in)

Want to see some letters from our first event? Check out Letters written for the Sunnyvale Steampunk Convention, 2008 HERE.

New Years 2010- Steampunk Style

2010-01-01T18:17:00.000-08:00

What a Wonderful evening full of friends, games, laughter, tea and song... yes, even song!

Once again we enjoyed ourselves far beyond what was expected and met some lovely new friends at our open invite New Years Eve Steampunk Tea Party. We ate delicious home made delights, drank gallons of tea and played parlor games until Midnight. Terrific fun!

Here are the pics: NYE Steampunk 2010

Thanks to everyone who came and made it such a terrific event!

St.Clair Aeronauts at the Nova Albion Steampunk Exhibition.

2009-09-21T16:02:00.000-07:00

You too can meet Capt. St. Clair and his crew! Be a Part of History.... Alternate History!

The StClair Aeronauts Zepplin Airmail Delivery Service will have a booth at the Nova Albion Steampunk Exhibition.

We'll have parchment paper and pen and ink. We'll have Airmail stamps circa 1883. We'll have envelope paper and envelope patterns (we'll even have a little glue!). And, of course, we will have out fearless crew of Delivery Persons in Uniform to deliver your precious messages!

So come by, and write a letter to someone at the Steam-X. You can pen a criptic message, or start a short story in the middle of the action. Make your envelope, address it and add a stamp and we'll make every effort to deliver it that day.

You'll hear our crew wandering the Exhibition, exclaiming. "Airmail, Airmail Delivery for...." Just imagine your own name there and take home a memento of the Steampunk Exhibition of 2010.
Want to see some letters from our first event? Check out Letters written for the 2008 California Steampunk Convention HERE.

Steampunk Picnic at the Rosicrucian Museum, July 18

2009-07-08T23:05:00.001-07:00

The St. Clair Aeronauts will be heading to the San Jose Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum for a Summer Picnic Lunch, Far East photo shoot and of course for our own edification on all matters Egyptian. Won't you join us for this delightful Steampunk Outing?

When: July 18th, Arrival and walk the grounds from 11:00 - Noon. Luncheon from Noon - 1:00, Museum and photos from 1:00 on. Join us for the whole day or just a part...

Where: Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum & Planetarium - http://www.egyptianmuseum.org/index.html

1664 Park AveSan Jose, CA 95191

What to Bring:
Friends and Family

Small Children (if you have them)

Your Best Summer Steampunk Fashions

Goggles (so we know you are one of us)

A Camera

Money for Admission ($9.00 general admission*, $7.00 seniors 55 and older and students with I.D., $5.00 children ages 5 - 10, free children under 5, * $1.00 discount on general admission for members of AAA, AAM, KQED, and Military)

A Box (or basket) picnic lunch

Thermos of tea (Can't have the Steampunk without the Steam)

China teacup (if you dare!)

Something sweet to share (fruit, cookies, cake, etc. enough for 4 people)

This is a Great photo opportunity and the St. Clair Aeronauts will be taking their formal portraits for the web page. Don't miss the reproduction of an Egyptian tomb (History Alive People!) and the lovely Egyptian architecture and grounds.

As always, All are welcome!

Let us know if you need a ride from Public Transit.

3rd Saturday of the Month at the Rosicrucian Museum: Games and Leisure in Ancient EgyptLife was not all work and no play in ancient Egypt. Learn how the ancient Egyptians spent their free time. Try your hand at various popular games such as Senet, Mancala, and UR.

St. Clair Aeronauts at the Take Flight for Kids Event August 8th

2009-06-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

The St. Clair Aeronauts Letter Writing and Delivery Service will have a booth at the Take Flight for Kids event on August 8th in San Jose.Come see us and support this wonderful event for kids. More info below!

Take Flight for Kids

Also, the organizers have asked me to spread the word... They love steampunks, and if you have a steampunk group that would like to put together something for this event to play with the kids, booth space is free. In fact everything is free. Register here: Take Flight for Kids Participant Registration.

Welcome New Maker Faire Friends!

2009-05-31T19:52:00.000-07:00

Just a huge welcome and thank you to all the people that helped us make such a great event out of the St. Clair Aeronauts booth at Maker Faire. You letter writers were all we could have wished for. I hope you will all come play with us again! You can write us on the Aethernet at stclairaeronauts@gmail.com if you are interested in hearing about more events or joining the group.

Toodle Pip,

Sophia St.Clair

Maker Fair Steampunk Letter Project

2009-02-28T08:46:00.000-08:00

You too can meet Capt. St. Clair and his crew! Be a Part of History....Alternate History!

We will have a booth in the Steampunk Section of Maker Fair, Bay Area, 2009 for the StClair Aeronauts Zepplin Airmail Delivery Service.

We'll have parchment paper and pen and ink. We'll have Airmail stamps circa 1883. We'll have envelope paper and envelope patterns (we'll even have a little glue!). And, of course, we will have out fearless crew of Delivery persons in Uniform to deliver your precious messages!

So come by, and write a letter to someone at the Fair. You can pen a criptic message, or start a short story in the middle of the action. Make your envelope, address it and add a stamp and we'll make every effort to deliver it that day.

You'll hear our crew wandering the fair exclaiming. "Airmail, Airmail Delivery for...." Just imagine your own name there and take home a memento of the Steampunk Exhibit at Maker Fair 2009.

Want to see some letters from our first event? Check out Letters written for the Sunnyvale Steampunk Convention, 2008 HERE.

Steampunks at Stitches

2009-02-08T11:24:00.000-08:00

$6 to get in plus the $2 off on line coupon (otherwise, bring $8 to get in.)
Your wallet (some people may want to call their credit card company and impose a spending limit... I mean you CT!)
A recycled bag or tote to carry all the yarn you are going to buy
A camera to capture all the ideas you are going to want to make later
A notebook to write down all the contact information for all the amazing vendors who will have handed out all their bezillion buisiness cards already
A thermous of tea (unless you want to pay their exorbidant cafe prices)
A cup or mug to drink out of
Cookies to share

Anyone needing a ride from the San Jose area or public transit stops need only contact me at stclairaeronauts@gmail.com or by phone 925 787 2591 to make plans. We have plenty of carpool room!

Once inside we won't hear our cell phones in the din, but we will check them and you can always look for the goggles!

See you there! As Always, Everyone is Welcome!

San Jose Steampunk Craft Party

2009-02-02T19:24:00.001-08:00

The weather is.... odd. The economy is the pits. Recycling may be our only hope for the future and the Girl Genius/Mad Scientist Steampunk Ball isn't until April ....So lets make some stuff!

We're having a craft day! I've got a working sewing machine and lots of odds and ends. Join us for goggle modding, jewelry making, costume sewing, plot writing, story swapping, quicky lessons in Knitting and Crochet (just in time for Stitches!) and any other crafty business we can think of.

When: Saturday, February 21st, noon (or when you get here) to 6ish (or later if you Insist...)

Where: Our House! 1169 Scott Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95050 Phone: 925.787.2591

What to Bring:

Yourself

Friends and Family

Small children (if you have them)

A craft project or an idea you want help with

Any supplies you might need that I don't have (see me for more info on the Room Full of Craftiness)

Something edible to share with three other people.

I'll be making a GIANT pot of home made spaghetti, and of course we have tea.

It is our intention to support the future of America by feeding as many college students as possible, so if you are in college, just show up for the food.

We can also provide rides to and from public transit. Don't be shy!

RSVP Admired but not required. Last minute additions welcome!

Babbage Day Photos!

2009-01-18T22:37:00.000-08:00

We had a terrific time at the museum and then Dinner (despite some complications with the restaurant)

Here are the pics and video... we were't very inclined to take photos with so many exciting things to look at...

The LINK!

Steampunk Babbage Day in Mountain View, CA

2009-01-03T11:42:00.000-08:00

Some crazy Victorian engineering enthusiasts have built an actual Babbage Engine on the designs of the Brilliant, if persnickity, Charles Babbage. The machine is elegant, beautiful, digital, efficient and calculates numbers to 32 decimal places without the use of electricity.

The machine itself is one of 2 in existence (the other is housed in a dark, neglected, corner of the Science Museum in London. We were there. Very sad.) and it will only be available for public viewing until May 2009. After that it disappears into a private collection (and the livingroom of one of the Captains of Industry, Nathan Myhrvold of Microsoft fame.)

So we're planning a field trip... And... to honor Babbage and all that might have been, we're making it a Steampunk Event!

Join us at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View for a little Tech History and then off to the Green Lantern for Chinese Food and socializing.

When:
Saturday, January 17 at 2:00 pm then Dinner at 5:00 pm (when the Museum closes)

Where:
The Computer History Museum- 1401 N Shoreline Blvd. Mountain View, CA 94043
The Green Lantern- 1477 Plymouth St. Mountain View, CA 94043

What to Wear:
Come show off your best Steampunk/Mad Scientist/Dr. Horrible/Victorian Adventurer/Time Traveler outfits or slum it as a Modern Californian.

What to Bring:
A little money for dinner. (The Museum is free (Donations accepted). The Green Lantern Menu is HERE.)
Small children
Friends
Family
Cameras (for the inevitable photo op)

Join us for the whole day, just the museum or just dinner. We always want to see you!

Note to People Taking Public Transit- We can easily pick you up at the Mountain View Caltran Station. Its a straight shot to the museum and we have a (micro) mini van.

As Always- Everyone is Welcome!

Steampunk Tea Party Photos!

2009-01-01T16:17:00.001-08:00

What can I say, but that Steampunk people are the Best people. What other group in the whole world is so kind, generous, entertaining and lively that you can invite 20 near strangers with an age range of 4 or 5 decades to a party and everyone has a great time?

There was tea! (Mmmmm.... blackberries)
There were Sweets and Sandwiches! (Walnuts and cucumbers and cream cheese, Oh My!)
There were Parlor Games (Charade - 0 - Pictionary Anyone?)

And there were 20 people in my livingroom, which, considering its size, is Quite remarkable.

Thank you everyone for a wonderful, joyful evening welcoming in the new year. I could not have asked for (nor arranged) better company.

Pictures Are Here (except for all the blurry ones of Leigh... will that girl EVER stop moving?)

Steampunk New Years Eve Tea Party!

2008-12-02T18:21:00.000-08:00

Join us for a Steampunk Tea Party at our house on New Years Eve.

All the fine china (I have enough cups and saucers for about 50 people and enough tea for 100) hot tea and baked goods (and finger sandwiches!) you can manage and some steampunk parlor games or readings or storytelling or crafts and so on to occupy us until Midnight and beyond.

We live in Santa Clara , so guests would need to make their way to the South Bay, but we could probably manage some crash space. We also have two indoor cats who are super friendly but shed.

What to Bring:

Yourself

Wayward Friends and Family

Any Small Children you belong to

Something stylish And Steampunky to wear

An iPod of music you enjoy

Party games you like to play (hey, we can even keep it Historical! Wink anyone?)

Any celebratory streamers/horns/hats/etc you have hanging around (or kidnap from Target, hehe),

A plate of your favorite finger sandwiches and an appetite for tea and cake.

We'll privide tea (Black, Green, White, Chai, Roobios, Herbal, Oolong, you name it... its in the Tea Cupboard) and china teapots, cups and saucers and enough baked goods to sink Amsterdam.

When: 8pm, December 31st (7pm if you want to help decorate)

Where: 1169 Scott Blvd, Santa Clara, CA, 95050

RSVP Much Appreciated. Last minute attendees, Please don't hesitate to Join us!

As Always, everyone is welcome!

Sunnyvale Steam Con Pics are Up!

2008-11-13T12:06:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Steam Con was a wild success!

Our unedited, blurry, fabulous, too dark and comical pictures can be seen here. Editing will occur as time allows:

http://joejohnson.smugmug.com/gallery/6446323_YcT9B/1/408541040_jAMve

Thank you to all the lovely people who posed while I tried to get my camera to work!

Additionally, all the Zeppelin Airmail Delivery Letters (and two industrious replies!) can be read at the link below!

http://joejohnson.smugmug.com/gallery/6325925_T7QJt/1/398983848_BCZpcThe Steampunk Letter Project was a roaring success, and my darling students were thrilled to get their replies. I think we struck a blow for good where this one set of creative teens in involved.

Thank you to everyone who volunteered to get a letter!Cheers!

SteamPunk Adventure at the Academy Of Sciences

2008-09-19T19:25:00.000-07:00

Its Time, Ladies and Gentlemen to investigate the darkest jungles of the sub equatorial rain forest and have our photographs taken in front of a charging Dinosaur.

The California Academy of Sciences will re open at the end of this month and that means local Steampunks have the perfect location for our next adventure!

So clamber into your best explorer's khaki, don those pith helmets, bring photographic equipment and join us for an afternoon of discovery!

When: Saturday, October 11 at noon.

Where: The NEW California Academy of Sciences
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Drive, San Francisco, CA 94118

What to Bring:
Money for Admission
~Adult $24.95
~Senior (ages 65 and over) $19.95
~Youth (ages12-17) $19.95
~Child (ages 7-11) $14.95
~Ages 6 and under FREE
Small Children if you have them
Your Favorite Sandwich
Some Sort of Baked Good To Share
A Thermos of Your Favorite Steamy Beverage (or a Cup To Try Someone Else's)
A Camera

We hope to see you there!

Nerf Mod Party- San Jose, CA

2008-08-04T10:22:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't need more shiny weapons that blow water, foam darts, or bubbles in their steampunk outfits?

As the Steam Convention approaches, we want to spend some time on our Military Accessories, so we are hosting a Nerf Modification Party.

We have a large, concrete slab known as our back yard, the perfect backdrop for spray cans of Primer or Metallic paint. We've got folding tables and newspaper and lots of sun to dry everything, plus witty conversation to amuse ourselves while said drying happens.

Want to Join Us?

Here are the particulars:

When: Saturday, August 30th, 1 - 6pm

Where: Our House in Santa Clara, CA -(We live here!)

What to Bring:

~Your own Nerf Gun, water gun, old hairdryer or other weapons like object to Mod.

~Primer, paint, glue, glue gun, brushes, wire, random bits from your tool, craft or sewing box, etc. (for those who are very new to Steampunk or don't have their own craft and tool supplies, we are happy to share our rather excessive collection of paint, primer, glue and bits for a small fee of $5)

~Snacks and beverages! (We have all the plates, cups and plastic forks we could possibly need, but we will be using power tools, so lets keep the booze to a minimum)

~Small children if you have them (we will provide chalk, dirt and books about pirates to play with)

~Sunscreen and/or a large hat (it gets quite warm here.....)

~a folding chair or stool to sit on

Hope to see you there!

Steampunk Ball- 9/6

2008-07-26T22:40:00.001-07:00

SPACE 1889: THE ADVENTURE OF LE CIRQUE DE VENUS
A Victorian Ball in Space!

I just wanted to invite everyone to this Ball especially since so many people are going to the Ball at the Steam Powered Con in Sunnyvale. This dance will be very similar. You can learn a polka and practice your waltz, play test your bustle or robotic arm before the big Convention Ball.

This particular dance is being sponsored by PEERS- The Period Events & Entertainments Re-Creation Society. They have been holding vintage inspired dances for over 20 years and they know how to put together a fabulous evening. Don't know how to dance? They'll teach you! (classes are right before the ball). Don't have a partner? They will provide one! Dance ambassadors will be on hand to coax you wall flowers off the wall... And if you are allergic to couples dancing, join one of the set dances (think every Jane Austin movie you have ever seen)

The crowd will include seasoned costume professionals, people in modern formal clothes and everything in between, so don't feel like you MUST have an astounding outfit to fit in. This is the perfect event for those new to Steampunk. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming.

Come to dance! Come to hear the ever engaging live music of Bangers and Mash (you may have seen them at Dickens Faire). Come to admire and be admired.

More information HERE.

Dinner before the Show!

Were going to....Delicious Lebanese Food!

Tannourine

120 W 25th AvenueSan Mateo, CA 94403

Reservations at 6pm.

Hope you can join us!

Even More Picnic Pics!

2008-07-26T22:14:00.001-07:00

Here are the photos from the second camera....

Tall Ships in San Francisco

2008-07-24T09:29:00.000-07:00

Mighty Tall Ships, people. Probably some Sea Dogs out there too. Get your photo taken in front of a clipper. Climb aboard a Tall Ship and set sail...

I'll be working as a Pirate, but the rest of you might want to come for the fun. Just found out about it. Here is the link: http://www.festivalofsail.org/index.asp

Sunnyvale Steam Con Pub Dinner

2008-07-24T09:18:00.000-07:00

St. Clair Aeronauts Events would like to invite anyone attending the Sunnyvale Steam Convention to join us for dinner at Ye Old Royal Oak English Pub in Santa Clara (just 3.5 miles away!)

Where: Ye Old Royal Oak Pub, 1240 Coleman Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95050, (408) 588-1111

When: Saturday, Nov. 1st, 2008, 6:30pm (this is right after Convention events close and early enough to dress for the Concert later that evening...)

What to Bring:
~Money for dinner (Menu Here)
~A valid ID if you want to visit the Bar
~A Designated Driver if you think you will need one
~Small Children if you have them (its a family restaurant)
~Goggles (so we know you when we see you!)

As usual, Everyone is Welcome (costume or not!)

So, who will Join us?

Steampunk people are the BEST people!

2008-07-24T09:13:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful Picnic!

We had a clear day, a bit chilly, though not unexpected in July in the City and everyone was able to dress in their woolen best in comfort. It was a large group, of the most charming people, and best of all, from the tenderest youth to the most young at heart, everyone enjoyed good company and high spirits for the day.

Where else, but among our Steamy friends can you hold baked goods and butterflies on the same afternoon. We stuffed ourselves on sandwiches and biscuits, grapes and brownies, quiche and bread and cheese, and washed it all down with blood orange juice or hot tea! Everywhere the conversations were lively ranging from beading projects to watch fobs, from our favorite plot twists in the best books and games we know to the most savory gossip we've seen in Faire politics or Washington DC. Ensembles were admired. Cards were exchanged. Carnivorous pants were inspected and lonely botanists (ask about the coconut) were pitied. For every person we lost to a previous engagement, two more would find us until we swarmed the cozy Conservatory, giving the amused tourists something to talk about.

And of course, there were Pictures! The full link is here:
Steampunk Picnic Photos

Thank You everyone for a wonderful Day!

Time Traveler's Picnic

2008-06-30T08:49:00.000-07:00

Inspired by the terrific idea from jaborwhalky and equally awesome photos from same, http://www.flickr.com/photos/jaborwhalky/sets/72157600342037567/ it seems to me that the West Coast, specifically the denizens within carriage distance or steam train of St. Francis (San Francisco to some of you) aught to have their own picnic/photo opportunity/commune with nature this summer.

So lets dress in our steampunky best, break out the parasols and the checkered blankets, the picnic baskets and the goggles for a nice little get together.

Where: The Conservatory of Flowers Entrance at Golden Gate Park

http://www.conservatoryofflowers.org/visitus/index.htm

When: Saturday, July 19th, Noon.

What to Wear: Its a Time traveler's Picnic. You could conceivably wear anything as long as you wear something! Consider this an opportunity to try out your new Steampunk duds, or to get ideas for what you will be wearing to the Steam Con in October.

What to Bring:

Something to Eat for Lunch: We'll have more fun with a potluck, so bring something for yourself and 3 other people and we'll have plenty. You are in charge of your own feast gear.

Something to Sit On: A blanket, folding chair, small stool, etc. Its up to you and various corset/petticoat restrictions and requirements.

Small Children: If you have them. This is a family friendly event.

A Camera: The better to document our adventures.

A Few Dollars: To get into the Conservatory. $5.00 for Adults, $3.00 for Youth 12-17, Seniors 65 & over, and Students with ID, $1.50 for Children 5 - 11, FREE for Children 4 and under.

And if you Tell me you are coming (Comment here or e-mail at stclairaeronauts@gmail.com) I'll even try to put together some kind of swanky favor to commemorate the day!

So who is coming?

Craft O Rama Rama

2008-06-03T14:52:00.000-07:00

Everyone gots skills. Everyone needs new clothes, new lace, new goggles, a new Victorian swim ensemble....

Sounds like we need some crafty workshop time:

Fiber arts- Lace, Knitting and Crochet

Textile Arts- Costumes

Prop Arts- More Goggles! Steampunk tools and weapons. Minny bots. Steampunk walkie talkies!

What else sounds fun?

Potential Steampunk Events

2008-06-03T14:27:00.000-07:00

Here are a few I thought of.... add your own and we'll run through the list!

1. Visit the Rosicrucian Museum in Santa Clara and have a pic nic in our SteamPunk best- SteamPunk AND Mummies! What could be better?

http://www.egyptianmuseum.org/

2. Go to the Beach in Victorian style swim clothes and build Steampunk sand castles and sand gears, and sand contraptions! (oh My!)

3. Visit the new Academy of Science in SF (with its living roof) and take some photos in the Rainforest (we were deep in the jungles of the Amazon when we saw it for the first time.....)

4. Have a SteamPunk High Tea.

I know there is more, but what catches people's fancy?

Welcome

2008-06-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

This page is the home of the St. Clair Aeronauts, an intrepid band of airship explorers determined to see the world (in considerably more than 80 days), to attend galleries and museums, hold tea parties and various other entertainments that can be found in the year 1850.

Please join us in our Steampunk Adventures!

~The Crew of the HMS St. Clair