Artisan Workshop: Make a Pair of Pockets

The fanny pack of the 18th century? During the Revolutionary era, pockets weren’t sewn into women’s clothing as they are now. Instead, pockets were tied around the waist beneath a woman’s gown to conceal important items like keys or money. Learn how to make your own hand-sewn pockets during a virtual, three-night workshop on Wednesdays, Jan. 10, 17, and 24, from 7-8:30 p.m., as part of the Museum’s Artisan Workshop Series.

Manager of Gallery Interpretation Meg Bowersox will discuss how women wore and made pockets tied beneath their gowns and show examples of original pockets as she leads participants in making their own with historically accurate materials and sewing techniques. 

If you would like to buy your own supplies in order to purchase the discounted workshop-only ticket, you will need:

• Pattern (received when class begins)
• 2/3 yard fabric each (1/3 yard for each the front and back)
• Tape: 2-3 yards of 3/4-wide linen or cotton tape
• Thread that matches the fabric
• Beeswax
• Needle
• Scissors
• Thimble