Description
The patterns included here are based on those given in Instructions for Cutting out Apparel for the Poor, 1789
They were for use in a box of child-bed linen to lend to the poor lying-in women, a common practive of the charitable organizations of the eighteenth century. The general custom was to lend a set of infant clothing, adn sometimes sheets and garments for the lying-in mother, for one month plus one week. The mother was “confined” for teh month following her delivery, and the exra week allowed her to clean, place in order, and return the box. A further charitable benefit, and somewhat of an incentive for the mother to return the box, could be offered by making up some simple garments to give to the mother for her inant upon the return of the box in good order. The patterns for the girl’s apa nd nightor boys cap are simply made and were for this purpose, the otehr caps being more complex in making up. Some households employed their servants and children in the practice of sewing such garments for the poor during times when other work was completed.
Sizing Notes…
Since todays infants range greatly in size, these patterns have been graded to modern sizes. Sizes are determined by the average body measurements at certain ages, designated in months.
