Overshirt quilting?

[lawson]

All,
I'm curenlty working on an oversmock of sorts, for labor work. I say
"Oversmock" because of the length, coming in a about 4 inches above my knees. anyhow, I was planning on just breast lining it with canton flannel. But the wheels in my mind have started turning a different direction.
My question is, has anyone seen originals that exhibit quilting, rather than just plain lining? By quilting, I mean as in Frock coats of the day, with batting in between the layers of fabric. I want some kind of lining in it, do to the light weight of the cotton fabric. Wanting to actualy get some use out of it this winter as I errect a shack for L.H. use.

Any guidance would be appreciated,

[ElizabethClark]

Re: Overshirt quilting?

I'd encourage you to use a lightweight wool, rather than cotton. A quick look at my notes on workmen's smocks mid-century points toward light wool as a common fabric. This makes sense on a few levels: one, wool is generally better at insulating from the heat or cold, so it works for more seasons than cotton; two, wool is a better option as an overgarment in the elements, as it will keep a person dryer than cotton; three, wool does not require frequent laundering at all, and will release the vast majority of dirt and odors.

If you switch to wool, and wear the smock over appropriate lower layers, as the original folks seem to have done, you'll be more comfortable while you work.

[lawson]

Re: Overshirt quilting?

Mrs. Clark,
Thanks for the input. I know wool was most common, but I allready had fabric I was dieing to make one out of. I'll way my options.

Later,