A Beautifully Worn and Repaired Cotton Work Coat: Patches

early to mid twentieth century
shoulder to hem: 34 1/2", 87.5 cm
sleeve tip to sleeve tip: 48", 122 cm

This is a quite large and wide work coat which is said to have been worn by a woodworker--and as you can see from the surface abrasion, the nicks to the cloth, the patching and the torn bottom hem, this coat was worn hard during its lifetime.

It is entirely hand stitched of a grey/blue and white, very narrow striped, woven cotton cloth which is commercially loomed.  The roomy jacket shows a good amount of wear from what must have been years of use: there is an overall patina from wear, some small stains from being on the job, and, as can be seen on the accompanying photographs, there are hand stitched repairs to the front of the coat.

Quite curious is the addition of a pocket to the proper, right side of the coat, clearly a later addition.  The jacket's side seam was opened and this pocket was inserted using white cotton, and the pocket is machine stitched to the jacket.

Even though this coat shows a great deal of wear, it is still durable enough to be worn, should you choose to do so. 

A handsome, old work coat from old Japan, this garment is still very much able to be worn.