The smock was a truly universal garment worn by shepherds, butchers, bakers, farmers, and other rural laborers in Old England. Today, they're favored by fashionable people everywhere and made out of every fabric imaginable. Long and short versions can be hand-smocked or "mock-smocked" by machine with elastic.

The technique of hand-smocking evolved from how these garments were fitted, sized, and embellished. (Did you know that? I didn't, and I find it fascinating that something so very utilitarian has evolved to such an art form!) Originally a man's garment, this loose-fitting smock is sized for women as well, and the Round Smock is sized for children as well. The Round Smock is mid-calf length (knee-length for children) and slips over the head. The Smock Frock has a button-front opening and is tunic length. Both versions may be hand-smocked on front, back, and sleeves, or easily "mock-smocked" with elastic. Instructions and designs for smocking and embroidery are included.

Suggested fabrics for this pattern, Folkwear 221: Soft medium-weight fabrics with some drape such as cotton, rayon, wool, synthetics or blends in challis, broadcloth, corduroy, or flannel. For an authentic look, choose linen or homespun.

The Round Smock is sized to fit children 2-12, who will need from 1-2 yards of 60" wide fabric depending on size, and Adult Small, Medium, and Large, for whom it will require 2 3/4 yards of 60" wide fabric. The Smock Frock is only sized for adults, for whom it will require 2 yards of fabric for Small and Medium, and 2 1/4 yards for Large. (Adult Small is sized for Women's 6-10 and Men's 30-32; Adult Medium is sized for Women's 12-14 and Men's 34-36; Adult Large is sized for Women's 16-20 and Men's 38-42.)

Notions required for the Round Smock include two 1/2" buttons for the cuffs and two 3/8" buttons for the neck. The Smock Frock needs nine 1/2" buttons for the cuffs and front opening; one 3/8" button for the neck, and 7/8 yard of interfacing for the front placket. For either smock, mock smocking will require 6 yards of 1/8" wide elastic.

Since the 1970s, Folkwear patterns have been used by theatre and dance costumers, historic reenactors, art-to-wear-aficionados, and anyone who enjoys dressing up. Folkwear patterns are based on vintage fashions and traditional ethnic garments for an authentic look. But with a fresh eye and creative touch, these timeless styles can become exciting and trend-setting wearable art today.