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Return To ShopWhat Is the Difference Between the Masonic Aprons?
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A Masonic Apron is a garment worn by a Mason and was originally derived from the apron worn by operative masons in the middle ages. It was large enough to cover the wearer from chest to their ankles; it was held up by a leather thong which passed around the neck. It was firmly stitched, which enabled the mason to tie the apron around his waist.
In Freemasonry there are three main types of Apron. The first type is known as the Entered Apprentice Apron. This is generally a white lambskin Apron, which represents a symbol of innocence. It is white in colour as it reflects the most light and represents a pure heart and cleanliness. Sometimes the Apron is made of white leather.
A white lambskin Apron is presented to a newly appointed Mason. It is generally fourteen to sixteen inches wide, twelve to fourteen inches deep, rectangular in shape, with no ornamental features, white strings and a triangular flap.
During presentation, the newly appointed mason is told that the Apron is an emblem of innocence, and it should be worn at all proper occasions and throughout his honourable life. It represents his dedication to a life of purity before God and man. These Aprons remind us “in Masonic terms” of “purity of heart” and uprightness of conduct. These Aprons are not only worn by Manson’s they must be worn by visiting entered apprentice masons too.
The Mason would be expected to wear his newly appointed Apron whilst attending lodge meetings and on other special masonic occasions. The type of occasion would include installation of Lodge officers, while the Lodge is at labour in either of the three degrees. Other such times would be during meetings such as Grand Lodge.
There are further Aprons to distinguish the graduation of the Mason. The next level is the Fellow Craft. The Apron is the same as the Entered Apprentice Apron except it has two sky-blue rosettes added near the lower corners.
Next is the Master Mason Apron which is similar to the Fellow craft Apron, with sky-blue lining, and edging not more than two inches wide; additional rosette on the flap, silver tassels, sky-blue strings. The waist ribbon is usually sky-blue, with fastening by means of a serpent emblem which hooks into an eyepiece.
After reaching the rank of Master Mason the brother can work his way through the officer of The Lodge and aspire to become Worshipful master of The Lodge where he will be invested in a still different Apron. This Apron is similar to that of a Master Mason Apron in colour, except the three blue rosettes are replaced with silver “T” bars, which are inverted on the Apron itself.
