There are some wonderful aprons making their way out of kitchen drawers and closets and pantries and attics. I have seen a fairly constant surge of interest in this humble utilitarian and timeless kitchen staple for the past several years.

And the market has responded by providing some nice reproductions. Moda fabrics has embraced the trend and has some of the most colorful new mass produced aprons.

However, I love my vintage aprons the most. I love to sit with them and admire how frugal piecing generated such loveliness. I love to admire the details and trims and expressions of simple creativity.

In Selvedge magazine, Sarah James writes a wonderful article on the historical significance of aprons. She educated me and gave me a whole new perspective on the aprons I collect. The article is extensive and covers the 19th Century up through the current domestic diva-ness of Martha Stewart and Nigella Lawson. Here is an excerpt from that article.

Morley Grainger did an exhibition on aprons. She “presents a very personal and intimate look at women’s lives. Five installations consist of original dresses, aprons and associated objects presented in large perspex boxes. Closer inspection provides a sub-text to the ‘secret’ thoughts of women stitched delicately in to the fabric.”

This is the thrill that I get from my aprons - imagining their story, their history, their herstory. It is the same type of thrill that my artist friend Jamie gets from imagining the story behind the ephemera that she collects. I love how this thread connects so many vintage collecting passions.

The stash over here at Stash Studios includes a hefty vintage apron collection. I’ve taken a few photos to share, eye candy if you will. Check our Gallery for more information.