Child's Drawers
TSU-065

        Both boys and girls of the Era wore drawers.  The only difference between the drawers of little boys and little girls was the amount of decorations around the hemline. Children’s drawers buttoned on both sides and often the little boys had drawer bodies (a loose undershirt-like garment) that buttoned to the waistband.  Unlike adult drawers, children’s drawers had sewn crotches.   This pattern is for drawers suitable for boys and girls to around the age of 6.  The pattern is for a waistband that buttons at both sides, but instructions are included for a drawstring waistband and for an elastic casing.   Elastic cloth had been patented in 1820 and was in use during the Civil War, however it was not used for undergarments.  Elastic waistbands are, however, an easy way for most Moms’s to make garments that are easy to fit and last several seasons.    Drawers usually were mid-calf in length and can be seen in pictures peeking out beneath the little girls dresses.   Suggestions are given for several different methods of finishing off the lower edges of your drawers.  If you make your drawers mid-calf length, you can purchase cotton knee-hi’s (trouser socks) in white or black, and the bottom of the drawers will comedown over the top of the socks.  This is a great way to get a period “illusion” without the hassles of stockings and garters.  The kid’s love it. 

Timeless Stitches
7060 Joy Rd
Everson, Wa. 98247
360.966.5132 / 360.966.2665