Hey, you won't learn if you don't ask! :> As far as hoops vs petticoats, skirt shapes and such - it depends on when exactly in the 18th century you are referring. :> If you can show me a pic or an approximate date of the style you are looking at I can probably give a better answer. If you want to e-mail me (mistress (at) chateauwhite.com), I'll forward a list of good books for researching this type of info as well. Don't forget to change the (at) to @! :>

PS - Yep, homeschooling totally rocks! :>