Making Bush Shirts 1

The bush shirt is an icon garment that was common in Australia during the gold rush era. In fact, it has been named as being part of our National Folk Costume. It is often worn in films to define an Australian character.

Features of the bush shirt are the long sleeves, collar on stand, 'V' patch pocket and the Closed placket front with a unique 'foot' or square stitch design at the base.

Traditionally worn loose, with long tails, the bush shirt is a very comfortable cotton garment. It can also be made in wool or other natural fibers.

To start with, a length of fabric, the same length as the shirt and twice the width, is folded into 4 lengthways. This is done very neatly so that the front and back panels can be cut simultaneously.

The collar cut is between 4cm and 6cm according to size. The shoulder is cut away at an angle of about 15degrees. The side is slit to the bottom at the fold. This should make two panels, one for the front, and one for the back.