This is the first post in another of our new series, Creative Outlet, where contributors share the hobbies, projects and side-hustles that make their free time even more fulfilling. Tell us yours.

 Creative Outlet: The Society of Creative Anachronism

I’m Michelle Joy, a librarian at two colleges at the moment, but in my downtime, I’m Elinor Gyles, a member of the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA), a medieval enthusiast group that hosts reenactment-style events. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to wield a sword, stared in amazement during a Renaissance faire, or wished you could enjoy a multi-course medieval feast (and who wouldn’t?), read on.

How did you get involved with the Society?

I found out about SCA for the first time in 8th grade, but I never joined until this past year, when some friends and I were at the Bay Area Ren Fest. We hung around SCA’s booth long enough (over an hour!), that they asked if we wanted to join. We haven’t looked back since. We’ve had lots of people help us make things or encourage us to try all kinds of projects, like sewing our own costumes, fencing, leather work, calligraphy and illumination (illustrated scrollwork).

What’s the coolest aspect of SCA?

EVERYTHING! Have a hobby you’re kind of interested in that existed pre-16th century? There is probably someone who does it who is DYING to take you by the hand and teach you. Everyone is really cool if you want to learn things slowly or jump in the deep end immediately.

What’s one misconception people have about this hobby?

That it’s just like the movie Role Models. I love that movie, but we don’t have magic or trolls. (Sorry, no fairies or elves or wizards, either.) In some ways, we’re similar: fighting, royalty, chivalry, households, but we’re historically based. If you submit your name or device (the picture on your shield, etc) for approval, it has to be historically accurate. But everyone is really helpful and willing to work with you.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced since joining SCA?

Choosing which things to focus on first. I have a very “DO ALL THE THINGS” personality, and there are so many things I want to learn (or improve my skills at) — archery, bore making, arrow fletching, singing, instrument playing, embroidery, and wood working, just to name a few — that it’s been hard to reign myself in and say, “Pick a few. You can do more later.” And I’m working on being more social. The nice thing is that SCA has a lot of wallflowers, so they understand that you may not want to be dragged into the middle of everything immediately. They’ll let you know you’re welcome, ask if you have questions, and if you say you just want to observe from the side for now, that’s okay!

What’s one thing you wish you knew when you were starting out?

How to go back in time so I could join sooner. Seriously. Other than that… winning lotto numbers so I could have money for ALL of the fabric/swords/wood/tools/etc.☺

How can others get involved?

Go to SCA.org to find out where your nearest kingdom is. They’ll have contact info for people who will help you get to your first meeting or event. Also, anywhere a demo is going on (which often happens at renaissance faires or conventions), look for a booth: People will be there who are happy to take down your contact info and keep you in the loop.

Get to know Michelle:

I’m a librarian at two colleges. I’m obsessed with fitness. I have been learning so many new things and I want to share a few with you. Here is my tumblr but it’s mostly me talking about our workouts. Haha.