The Bloomers stencil is one of Alabama Chanin’s earliest and most iconic stencil designs. Inspired by a pair of antique French lace bloomers, the stencil design debuts in the Spring/Summer 2003 collection. Stenciled onto coats, dresses, skirts, and eventually bandanas, the design is used as an “audition piece” for the artisans (entry coming soon) to practice and perform their stitching skills. These test bandanas are later donated to cancer patients and hospitals across America.
In 2008, the Bloomers stencil appears in Alabama Stitch Book, becoming an everlasting part of The School of Making—established in 2014 (read an entry on The School of Making here).
Find the Bloomers stencil in digital and mylar options here.
Explore more maker supplies and stencils from The School of Making here.
Purchase a signed copy of Alabama Stitch Book here.
Slide 1: Natalie Chanin's polaroids to document design details of early Bloomers Panel Skirt, Project Alabama, photograph by Robert Rausch
Slide 2: Pillow with placement Bloomers reverse appliqué, Alabama Chanin, photograph by Abraham Rowe; The Bloomers Panel Skirt featured in Vogue View “Special Talent Watch”, Vogue Magazine, March 2003, Project Alabama, photograph by Robert Rausch
Slide 3: Bloomers cardigan, Project Alabama, photograph by Robert Rausch
Slide 4: Fabric Swatch in Bloomers Plum/Carmine, The School of Making, photograph by Abraham Rowe
Slide 5: Fabric Swatch in Bloomers 3D Appliqué in Doeskin/White/Sand, The School of Making, photograph by Abraham Rowe