Product description
Pattern
The stylized rosebud print reproduced here comes from a swatch featured in a Regency era magazine with the magnificent name The Repository of Arts, Literature, Commerce, Manufactures, Fashions and Politics. This illustrated periodical, published by Rudolf Ackermann in London, contained lithographs based on the works of famous artists as well as his own, images of London, news from the world of fashion and home decor, actual fabric swatches, and more. Our source appeared in the March 1811 issue.
The original publication with fabric swatches is part of the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
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.