Apron on your mind? I did a series of posts on making, mending and washing aprons. I’ve also taught apron workshops, and you can download the PDF instructions here. An apron isn’t always the first thing we think of when it comes to upgrading kit, but it’s one of the most important (and subtle) pieces of clothing you have to deploy. Covering much of your skirts, it can be one of the first things a visitor sees. It’s worth the effort to do it right– you’ll need one for years whether you’re using a check linen one as you cook or covering your silk skirts with filmy embroidered cotton. My instructions are static, but for video tutorials and sew-alongs, check out the Burnley and Trowbridge YouTube channel.

Pockets, perhaps?
I did upload a pattern taken from an original in a New England collection some years ago. It’s sized for a girl’s pocket, so it may not be your solution. Still, if you want embroidery that’s from an original, this could be for you.
Also, I’ve got entries on what women carried, and on making new pockets based on examples in collections. Burley and Trowbridge also did a pocket sew-along, so check that out, too!