Product description
Pattern
This dainty pattern depicting stylized sprigs is taken from a preserved Regency era dress from 1815–1818.
The morning dress from which this pattern was taken is at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
Handmade
Our reproduction is hand printed using the matrix method. This traditional technique is a form of woodblock printing – the pattern is carved onto a wooden stencil and then the craftsman applies it to the cloth by hand, deftly aligning the pattern with a trained eye. Fabrics made in India using this very technique were being exported to Europe by the latter 18th century, so this period reproduction fabric is historically authentic in every sense of the word, including the production process.
There may be slight imperfections on the fabric. They are not considered defects, but rather a natural feature of hand crafting.
Fabric
This organic cotton muslin is woven of fine thread. It has a soft hand with a naturally smooth touch – it has not been treated, unlike some shirting fabrics or our batiste prints, which have a special finish for a smoother and slightly stiffer hand. The weave is more open than for batiste, but denser than a gauze, so in spite of how fine it is, it holds its shape fairly well and doesn’t shrink considerably.
This fabric is sheer – especially solids in lighter shades. Layer it or use where a little translucence won’t matter.
Application
Cotton muslin is a light, airy fabric with a moderate drape that gathers well (full skirts, puffed sleeves, ruffles) and also works nicely in flowing garments, summer scarves, and romantic curtains.
Muslin enjoyed huge popularity in Regency and Empire era fashion, when it played the starring role in the high-waisted chemise gowns that we associate with that period. These were worn in pure white, or with subtle prints or embroidery.
Organic cotton
This batiste is made of GOTS-certified organic cotton, which guarantees responsible production from the cultivation process through fabric finishing. It is made in India, where the production of lightweight cotton fabrics has a strong historical tradition – as a matter of fact, that is precisely where dressmakers in the Empire era got their muslin.
Limited edition
This pattern is part of a limited-edition collection of historical patterns from Sartor Bohemia (all rights reserved) and is produced in limited quantities. Don’t miss your chance to take some home, we may not have it in stock again.
Care
Machine wash 40°C. Because this fabric is quite fine, use a lower spin cycle; gentle handling will prolong your fabric’s lifespan. Iron on cotton setting.
