Muffins Hats and Mob Caps

A week or so ago, I attended a meeting of the Jane Austen Society of North America, Minnesota Chapter. Instead of having a speaker, this month we made Regency-era hats and caps.

I have made myself two or three caps to wear of evenings since I came home, and they save me a world of torment as to hairdressing.”

—Jane Austen letter, 1813

I am not crafty, but I thought it would be fun to gather with other women to “work” while we chatted and sipped tea. And it was! Such gatherings were common in the Regency era and women often brought along their needlework baskets or bags on calls, so they could be productive while visiting.

The organizers made it easy for even those of us with little sewing experience.

These generous women pre-made simple “muffin hats” and mob caps for us to adorn.

…Next week shall begin my operations on my hat, on which you know my principal hopes of happiness depend.”

—Jane Austen letter, 1798

They also supplied a wide array of sewing notions and decorations like ribbons, lace, feathers, and brooches for us to use to trim our hats and caps and make them our own. Here you can see some of the results:

Have you ever gathered with friends to talk while your hands were busy with some craft or hobby? If not, do you think you would enjoy the experience?