THE WORKING SHEPARD SMOCK

In 2022, Gen Palmer and I worked collaboratively with Charlotte Baxter (designer) to create a Working Shepard Smock to be displayed in the Dorset Museum.

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I thoroughly enjoyed learning and experimenting with all the different decorative smocking stitches. To give more structure to the mannequin, it required padding to go over the top of the mannequin to give the required shape. 

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One key aspect that was needed was the breakdown element. Talking to the designer she expressed that she did not want a lot of breakdown, as the man wearing the smock still needs to look presentable as he will be selling at a fair. 

The way in which we created sweat was tea and hot water. To get an even coverage we used a spray bottle. The mud involved mixing the inside of 6 tea bags, a teaspoon of PVA glue, some water and thick brown paint. We used our hands to apply it to give a more realistic impression. A grater, sandpaper and wire brush was used to produce natural wear and tear.