Description
The Round Cottage Bonnet became fashionable in 1848. It’s brim encircled the face allowing the entire countenance to be seen. THis straight-sided bonnet was stylish into the mid-1850’s, then bonnet size began to shrink. HOwever, the Round Cottage Bonnet continued to be worn in rural areas by conservatively dressed women.
The original bonnet from which this pattern has been taken is covered in dark cinnamon brown silk, woven with a raise stripe and bud design. Trim consists of narrow bands of bias cut fabric stitched around the front and back of the crown. Additionally, 2 1/2″ wide silk ribbon of the same color, rolled into two bads is stitched around the crown. Box-pleated ribbon also forms a heading for the curtain.. Bonnet strings 18″ long are stitched to each brim point. A 9″ lenght of narrow 3/4″ ribbon is also stitched to each brim point. Most likely, the narrow ribbon held the bonnet in place while the wide robbons were left to stream in the breeze as is pictured in many original engraving. Black lace, 1/2″ wide is stitched above the lower edge of curtain.. The brim is faced with bonnet fabric with no additional adornment. The maker of this pattern thanks the Lancaster County Historial Society for allowing her access to their collection. You will make a charming bonnet using this pattern.
