A Pretty first Quarter 19th c Child's Everyday Smock

Isn't this precious? Absolutely! Antique everyday children's wear is so very rare to find. It is my pleasure to share this very special piece with you all~ especially my living history Moms~ this one is easy to make!

Not a dress, but a 'smock'~ this one with long sleeves~ these were made to fit and be worn over the child's clothing, to keep it clean. As you can tell, this one did its job proudly!

Early textiles were so hard for us Americans to come by, anything we made from them was precious, and like alot of early childrens wear, this one has its share of darns. Many of these utilitarian pieces were used to rags, and then made their way to be linings for other things, necessary items, quilts & patchwork, until literally, there was nothing left

The workmanship on this, tho the construction is very simple, is exquisite. The stitches are nearly microscopic. In this close view of the hem stitching, you can also see the fabric, a beautiful pink woven stripe, up close~ be sure to click on the pictures to enlarge them!

There are but 5 pieces you need to cut for this smock. A large rectangle for the body, 2 rectangles for the sleeves, and another 2 small strips for the sleeve cuffs. Thats it. Made from a single width of cotton(25"), you can note the salvage edges to each side that make up the back opening. The rectangle is simply cut straight down from the shoulders, where the sleeves are set in~ NOTE that both the underarm of the body and the sleeve, are left open. This is for easing over the child's clothing so no bunching up under the arms~ think of it like an invisible gusset

Here is a closer view. There is a triangle of differing striped cotton reinforcing the point at the armpit there.

Here is better view.

The back is simple and open, with 2 tie closures. Length from shoulder to hem is 30".

The sleeves have a small gather at the top shoulders

back tape ties are tacked onto the salvage edge of the fabric. Cuffs are simple and close with a single button & button hole. This smock could easily be made up in a period correct reproduction cotton, over a simple plain color dress, and would look simply stunning. Less certainly is more, when talking early 19th c childrens clothing.