Summary
In this project, I aimed to created a 16th century embroidered linen apron using period artwork as reference for the design. The apron features an open work inferior border and a smocked waistline.
Bleached linen with a 40-thread count per inch was hand embroidered with two distinct drawn thread patterns comprising 576 horizontal threads. The superior border was smocked in a honeycomb pattern to control fullness at the waistband insertion. Cotton perle number 8 was used for the embroidery, while the construction seams were created with silk sewing thread.
The documentation for this item can be found here .
Detailed view of drawn thread embroidery
Apron worn over blue kirtle
Apron worn over blue kirtle
Apron worn over blue kirtle – Action shot!
A&S display. Photo credit: Baroness Cateline la Broderesse
Photo credit: John Mikuchi
Photo credit: John Mikuchi
Detailed view of drawn thread embroidery. Photo credit: John Mikuchi
Counting and marking edges for thread drawing step
Satin stitches finishing the edges of the area where threads are to be cut
Pulling background threads
Removed horizontal ground threads
Removed horizontal ground threads – detailed view
Embroidering groups of 6 threads
Embroidering groups of 6 threads
Finished thread groupings
Pleated linen in preparation for smocking
Pleating markings in preparation for smocking
