This Tommy Sewing Pouch, commonly known as a “housewife”, is a reproduction of the compact sewing kits issued to British soldiers during World War I.
Made from sturdy cotton drill, the roll-up pouch has internal loops to secure needles, pins, threads, and buttons. Original kits often included additional items such as wool thread, spare buttons, and patch material
Ideal for reenactors completing their kit or collectors interested in authentic small gear pieces.
Historical Context
During WWI, soldiers faced frequent uniform wear and tear. The “housewife” sewing kit offered a convenient solution for repairing clothing in the field.
The pouch was typically carried in a haversack or washing roll and commonly contained: a thimble, balls of wool thread, linen thread on cards, needles, buttons, and scraps of cloth for mending.
Specifications
- Material: cotton drill
- Color: khaki / sand tone
- Internal loops for needle, thread, buttons
- Compact roll-up design
- No additional content (thread, buttons etc. not included unless stated)
- Use: reenactment, uniform completion, display