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Bespoke Vestments and Paraments

The term “bespoke” means something that’s made especially for a particular user. In other words, it’s something that we have designed, or at least customized. Here at Ecclesiastical Sewing, we have a wide variety of ready-made designs for bespoke vestments and paraments of all kinds. Basic selections include stoles, as well as pulpit, falls, or communion table/altar frontals with little decoration besides a plain orphrey

A discussion about Chasubles

The chasuble was an ordinary garment, and very full in form. The idea was that the cloth would cover the wearer’s clothes, providing extra warmth and protection from the elements. Romans called this piece of clothing a “clasura,” or “little house.” This garment evolved into a liturgical vestment that became specific to priests and used only during celebrations of the Mass.

Symbols of Lent: Penitence to Hope

What are the symbols of Lent: Penitence to hope?
Ashes are probably one of the more recognizable symbols of Lent.
Churches that observe this, use purple vestments during Lent season.
Pretzels a Lenten treat that fits the dietary restrictions while reminding us to pray.
Fish on Friday and giving money during Lent.
What other symbols do you commonly see during this time of year in your church or in churches you have visited?

Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis: A Taste of Europe in the New World

You might find the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, located in Missouri, The seat of the Diocese of St. Louis, this magnificent cathedral is dedicated to St. Louis, King of France. Louis IX is the only French king to be canonized, and the reign of Louis IX was known for having a close association between Church teaching and civil society.

White and Gold Liturgical Religious Fabircs for Easter and Christmas

Best White Liturgical Fabrics for Easter and Festival Seasons of the Church Year

The choice of fabrics for creating vestments and altar hangings is a feast for the eyes, and different churches have different needs. The range of white church vestment fabrics available at Ecclesiastical Sewing for making church vestments is quite nice. White includes a broad range of colors: creams, ivory, deep cream, gold, and of course the stunning brocatelles with their shimmering gold highlights!

Dowlas linen for use in making church vestments

How to Make the Outside for Vestments Look Great

For great-looking vestments, use quality interfacing inside. Choose materials like Dowlas linen, French Micro Twill, and Silk Organza for stoles. Use pre-shrunk white cotton canvas for medium-weight support. For altar frontals, pick Dowlas or various weights of cotton canvas. Opt for Silk Dupioni, Satin Lining, or Cotton Sateen for lining, with dress-weight satin being versatile, Silk Dupioni serving dual purposes, and Cotton Sateen minimizing slipping in stoles.

Why we use purple for Lent image

Why do we use purple during Lent?

Purple in Lent symbolizes the royalty of Christ, His sacrificial death, and the season’s connection to Passover. The color, historically associated with royalty, was used mockingly on Jesus during His passion, emphasizing His royal dignity. Additionally, purple signifies the sorrowful nature of sins and the sacrifice made for redemption. Linguistically, “Lent” means “lengthen,” indicating its timing as days lengthen with the approach of spring and the season to observe Lent.

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