Folkwear Patterns - English Smock

About the English Smock

Smocks have been worn by rural laborers as protective overgarments for hundreds of years. The technique of hand-smocking evolved from the way many of these early garments were fitted, sized, and embellished. 

English Smocks were most widely worn during the late 18th century. Shepards donned the sturdy garments while traveling unpaved roads. Butchers, bakers, fishmongers, and farmers wore smocks for work, and many had "best" smocks (usually white) as well, for Sundays, special occasions, and to make a good impression at the annual Hiring Fairs. Today, smocks are favored by artists, craftspeople, and fashionable folk everywhere. 

Originally a man's garment, the loose-fitting smock is sized for women as well as men. The Round Smock is sized for children as well. 

The Round Smock is mid-calf length and slips over the head. For children, the smock is knee-length. 

The smock Frock has a button-front opening and is tunic length. 

Both versions may be hand-smocked on front, back, and sleeves, or easily "mock-smocked" by machine with elastic. 

Instructions and designs for smocking and embroidery are included inside pattern. 

The Fabric

Soft medium-weight fabrics with some drape such as cotton, rayon, wool, synthetics or blends in challis, broadcloth, corduroy, or flannel. For an authentic look, choose linen or homespun.

Sizing

Children's 2-12; Misses 6-20; Men's 30-42

Level of Difficulty

There is no specified level of difficultly on the pattern, but Folkwear have very good instructions.