This page is aimed at helping newcomers to the Society for Creative Anachronism get started. Many more links can be found on the subpages of the SCA website (see above).
If you are unable to find the information you need in the links below, please contact the Society Chatelaines Coordinator (newcomers’ liaison).
Getting acquainted with the SCA
How did the SCA begin? How is it organized? Why is everyone wearing odd clothing and bowing to those people with crowns? And how can I join?
Newcomers’ Guides
- A Newcomer’s Guide to the SCA – Start Here!
An eight-page brochure with color photos and information on: What is the SCA? – Getting Started – Who is Who? – Activities – Where to find SCA equipment – Recommended Reading
- Hi-res version
- Lo-res version
- Note: A version that can be printed as a 5.5″ x 8.5″ booklet is available on the Chatelain Resources page
- Forward Into the Past
An introductory booklet published by the Society. Goes into a little more detail.
What is the SCA – Getting Started – Fitting In – What to Wear and How to Behave – Making a T-tunic – Names and Personas – Kingdom & Local Officers – SCA Combat – Who is Who? – Heraldry – Guilds, Households, and Sociability – The Gentle Arts and Sciences - The Known World Handbook, The Fighters’ Handbook and many other publications are also available from the SCA Stock Clerk’s Office.
- NEW! Preview a sample article from the Known World Handbook – “Getting Ready for your First Event”
SCA Terminology
- Glossary of SCA Jargon
“Good grief – what do they mean by that?” The SCA has a vocabulary all its own. Here are definitions for the most commonly used terms you’ll hear at events or read in newsletters.
Advice
- Advice to Newcomers
Whether a long-time SCA member brought you to your first meeting or you came by yourself, there’s always a period of adjustment. Here’s how to get yourself oriented quickly and begin to have some fun.
- “Newcomers are Nice – Advice to Established Members”
Sometimes long-time members are just as unsure about approaching newcomers as you are about approaching them! This article may help you both meet in the middle.
Finding a local SCA group
- How to find the local group near you
Hints on how to locate your local group, and which officers to make contact with
- Search for your kingdom
Enter your state, province, or country to see what kingdom you are in
- Knowne World Map
Interactive maps of the SCA kingdoms – by Dante de Valencia.
What to Wear
- Making Medieval Clothes and Items
Over 40 articles on Medieval and Renaissance clothing and accessories, including “How To’s”; links to costuming resources
- Introduction to Garb
Quick tips on making men & women’s tunics, head-coverings, belts, and pouches; by Mistress Cynthia du Pré Argent
- Practical Worksheet for tunic construction
More detailed instructions on making a tunic/gown; by Mistress Cynthia du Pré Argent
- Some basic patterns are covered in the SCA’s Forward Into the Past pamphlet.
- The SCA Without Breaking the Bank Tips on affordable ways to put together your garb (even if you can’t sew!), armor, tableware, camping gear, etc.
Things to do in the SCA
- Arts & Sciences
Extensive lists of links for a variety of medieval and renaissance arts, crafts, sciences, games, and other pastimes.
- SCA Armored Combat, Fencing, and Combat Archery
- Equestrian Activities Mistress Eleanor Fitzpatrick of the East Kingdom presents an informative overview of equestrian activities.
Who to be in the SCA
- What is an SCA Name?
- Choosing a Society Name: Hints for Newcomers
- Medieval Names Archive
- Choosing a Name & Creating a Persona
- How do you get to be king? Who can use noble titles? How should I address people?
See “Who is Who?” chapter of Forward Into the Past