Artisan Workshop: Make an Apron

Aprons for fashion and not just for cooking? During the Revolutionary era, men and women wore aprons for work and style. Working men wore aprons that connected to buttons high on their shirts or waistcoats and tied around the waist. Almost all women wore lower aprons to protect their gowns and petticoats but also as items of fashion — especially in the case of elite women, who often wore aprons of gauze and lace. 

Learn how to make your own hand-sewn men's or women's apron during a virtual, three-night workshop on Wednesdays, Feb. 7, 21, and 28, from 7-8:30 p.m. as part of the Museum's Artisan Workshop Series. Please note that there will be no class held on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14. Manager of Gallery Interpretation Meg Bowersox will discuss how men and women wore aprons 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)
• 1 yard of fabric 
• Tape: 2 yards of 3/4 wide linen or cotton tape
• Thread that matches the fabric
• Beeswax
• Needle
• Scissors
• Thimble