apron fabric

[Angel of Mercy]

For aprons I know plaids and prints we re very common, but any solid cotton? Where fancy aprons ever made out of polished cotton?

Thank you.

[crabby]

Re: apron fabric

Aprons, something near and dear to my heart! They are often times overlooked and under appreciated in our desire to correctly portray the women of the 1860's. It can also be very hard to date SOME original aprons. In my local historical society resides a black polished cotton apron that is lined with a coarse brown fabric. However, based on the shape (very long and narrow) and other clothing in the collection, I believe it is 1870's - 1880's.
As further indication of the problems dating aprons, I went to the Met. Museum web site and perused the aprons in their collection. More than one is listed as 1700-1946's! WOW how is that for a time span? However many are from our period or slightly previous. I have attached some that IMHO are good examples. There are many more and I would suggest anyone who has an interest, spend some time on their (or other museums) website. There are some that make you say "what in the world is this" but when you read the description it is clear that they are ethnic examples. Hope you find this helpful.

[crabby]

Re: apron fabric

The first one (black pinner) should read Swiss not Swill......

[Angel of Mercy]

Re: apron fabric

Thank you Beth. Great photos!

I have about 5 yards each of dark green, mustard yellow, rusty orange and a dusty rose color that's polished cotton. And am trying to find ways to use it all up.

[col90]

Re: apron fabric

Thank you Beth. Great photos!

I have about 5 yards each of dark green, mustard yellow, rusty orange and a dusty rose color that's polished cotton. And am trying to find ways to use it all up.

I'm another who loves fancy aprons, as is Carolann Schmidt, who just finished a class on them. I have to say, save the polished cotton for something else. FANCY aprons, such as the ones that Beth posted, are predominantly made of silk, not cotton.

Colleen Formby

[Angel of Mercy]

Re: apron fabric

Hello Ladies,
I had another question regarding aprons. Has anyone come across photos of work aprons of 2 different prints/colors? I don't have enough of my mustard yellow calico print to make the ties and waistband. I could make the waistband and ties of a different print/color?

I found one of a fancy apron with darker pockets and trim. I'm sure they would have done this, but I just want to see originals.

Thanks so much!

[David Swarens]

Re: apron fabric

I know it is off topic, but we once bought an item with the label "any slobs that appear in this garment are not the responsabilty of the manufacturer." What it meant, of course, was "slubs" - the uneven threads seen in some handspun textiles, rahter than slobs who would be entertaining themselves with "swill."
Couldn't resist sharing.

David Swarens.
San DIego, Cal.