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Explore the rich and intricate world of textiles and their use in the 18th century. Discover how colonial Americans sourced, crafted, and utilized textiles, including homespun wool and linen and imported silks and dyes. 

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Offered

Cost

Included with general admission

Located At

Historic Area

“Not a moment should be lost, after the Wool is taken from the Sheeps backs, in having it Spun & wove, that it may be made up in time for the [enslaved] clothing…”  — George Washington, 1793   

Activities

You'll be Dying to know...

9 a.m. - 1 p.m. & 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.

12-Acre Field

Learn how various spices, herbs, plants, and even insects were used to create colorful clothing in the 18th century. Watch as our Historic Trades team demonstrates the process of dying wool by hand. 

Two New Suits

9 a.m.- 12 p.m. & 1 p.m.- 5p.m.

Greenhouse

Watch as Mount Vernon's Historic Costumer Kathrin Breitt Brown and Colonial Williamsburg's Master Tailor Mark Hutter complete work on a reproduction of George Washington's inaugural suit.

Once the suit is complete, they will turn their attention toward drafting, cutting, and stitching a new suit for Christopher Sheels, Washington's enslaved valet. 

As Washington prepared his wardrobe for his presidency, he simultaneously put effort into making sure his enslaved household staff—​his valet, the butlers, the coachmen and postilions—were also dressed in a way the reflected his new position.

We Might Be Bias

10 a.m.- 11:45 a.m. & 1 p.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Ford Orientation Center

Martha Washington made many quilts, including three known piecework (or patchwork) quilts. Join our Youth Programs team to learn about this quilting style and design your own quilt using scrapbook paper. 

She Sews Sea Shells

11 a.m. & 1 p.m., Sunday only

Interpretive Center

In 1766, Martha Washington began cross-stitching a set of 12 chair cushions in a scallop shell design, and spent the next 35 years working on them. Join “Martha Washington” as she discusses the creation of her famous shell cushions and answers your questions.