Ausseer hand-printed apron Narzisse

Hand-printed apron with a distinctive daffodil motif, apron panel in silk, apron length 80cm.

Hand printing

A hand-printing technique for textiles has been known since the 18th century. Its basis is the Model, the printing block: a solid length of wood into which the block cutter drives fine brass pins according to the motif. In demanding handwork, the negative of the sought-after motifs comes into being in this way. Correct mounting of the fabrics, careful inking of the Model and finally the precise placing on the cloth make up the skill of a true master hand printer. A slight offset in the pattern, the so-called Modelzaumstond, proves the authenticity of the hand printing and makes each apron one of a kind. The valuable Model blocks were mostly passed on from generation to generation, yet motifs are lost again and again. Every surviving, unforgotten motif is therefore all the more valuable. Gössl has devoted itself to the singularity of the patterns themselves and digitised them. In this way the old motifs are preserved and can at the same time be shown creatively in new proportions.

To every apron its bow
Where clothing itself once gave information about a woman's social standing, a new tradition has formed over the past decades. The knowledgeable lover of Tracht knows: depending on where the bow is worn, custom gives it different meanings.

Bow on the left – luck comes aft
When a woman wears the bow on the left side, she shows that she is not yet spoken for. Small, tasteful flirtations are therefore permitted.

Bow on the right – take heed tonight
If a woman appears with her apron tied on the right, it means unmistakably that her heart already belongs to another. It also serves as protection from persistent suitors.

Bow in the middle
Bow in the middle This is the traditional sign that the wearer is still a maiden. The undecided also like to tie their bow here.

Bow in the middle
This is the traditional sign that the wearer is still a maiden. The undecided also like to tie their bow here.

Bow at the back
With the bow tied at the back, the wearer shows that she is widowed.

Gössl's double apron ribbon offers countless possibilities for perfecting this individual Dirndl style. From refined knots to the extravagant fan bow, no limits are set here.