A Masonic apron is a garment worn by a Freemason 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 ankles; it was supported by a leather thong that passed around the neck. It was firmly stitched, allowing the mason to tie the apron around her waist.
In Freemasonry there are three main types of Mandil. The first type is known as an entered apprentice apron. This is usually a white lambskin apron, which represents a symbol of innocence. It is white in color as it reflects the most light and represents a pure and clean heart. Sometimes the apron is made of white leather.
A white lambskin apron is issued to a newly appointed Freemason. It is generally fourteen to sixteen inches wide, twelve to fourteen inches deep, rectangular in shape, without ornamental elements, white strings, and a triangular flap.
During the introduction, the newly appointed mason is told that the apron is an emblem of innocence, and is to be worn on all appropriate occasions and throughout his honorable life. It represents his dedication to a life of purity before God and men. These aprons remind us “in Masonic terms” of “purity of heart” and uprightness of conduct. These aprons are not only worn by Mansons, they must also be worn by visiting mason apprentices.
The Freemason would be expected to wear their new apron while attending lodge meetings and on other special Masonic occasions. The type of occasion would include the installation of Lodge officers, while the Lodge is working in any of the three degrees. Other similar moments would be during meetings like the Grand Lodge.
There are more aprons to distinguish the Mason’s graduation. 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 bottom corners.
Next is the Master Mason apron, which is similar to the Fellow craft apron, with a sky blue lining and a brim no more than two inches wide; additional rosette on the lapel, silver tassels, light blue threads. The waist ribbon is usually sky blue, held in place by a serpent emblem that hooks into an eyepiece.
After attaining the rank of Master Mason, the brother can work his way up through officer of The Lodge and aspire to become Worshipful Master of The Lodge, where he will be invested in an even different Apron. This apron is similar to that of a master mason’s apron in color, except that the three blue rosettes are replaced with silver “T”-shaped bars, which are reversed on the same apron.
