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 strap that passed around the neck. It was firmly sewn, which allowed the mason to tie the apron around his waist.
In Freemasonry there are three main types of Apron. 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 greatest amount of light and represents a pure and clean heart. 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 cords, and a triangular flap.
During the introduction, the newly appointed mason is told that the apron is an emblem of innocence, and should 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 rectitude of conduct. These aprons are not only worn by those at Manson, they must also be worn by visiting mason apprentices.
The Mason would be expected to wear his new apron while attending lodge meetings and on other special Masonic occasions. The type of occasion would include the installation of officers of the Lodge, while the Lodge is working in any of the three degrees. Other similar times 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 that 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 waistband is usually sky blue, held in place by a snake emblem that hooks into an eyepiece.
After attaining the rank of Master Mason, the brother can work his way 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” bars, which are reversed on the apron itself.