A simple apron is one of the best first sewing projects. It is all straight seams, it uses only one yard of fabric, and you finish with something you will wear every day. Melanie Ham makes this bib apron from a single yard of 44 inch quilting cotton, with an adjustable neck strap, long waist ties and a roomy front pocket.
How to sew an apron: the short version
- Fold the fabric and cut a 13 inch wide body on the fold.
- Cut an 8 inch strip off the bottom for the pocket, then cut the slanted sides.
- Cut strips for the ties and neck strap, sew them, turn and press.
- Press a double folded hem around the body and pin the straps in.
- Stitch the hem, then sew the pocket on.
Choosing your fabric
Quilting cotton is easy to cut, presses crisp and washes well. Canvas, denim, linen or duck cloth make a sturdier apron for gardening, grilling or crafts. A plaid or stripe hides kitchen splashes and gives you lines to cut along, though you will want to match the pattern a little when you fold. Prewash your fabric on cold if you can, since cotton shrinks a little the first time.
Sizing it to fit you
Melanie is 5 foot 9, and her measurements suit an average adult. To check yours, hold the cut body up to your chest. The top edge should sit where you like the bib, and the bottom of the slanted cut should land at your side, near your waist. Move the side pins up or down before you cut. Because only one end of the neck strap is sewn in at first, you can adjust it after a try on.
How long does it take?
Plan on about two hours for your first apron, a little less once you know the steps. Cutting and pressing take as long as the sewing does. Cut everything in one session, then sew the straps and pocket together at the machine before you hem, so you are not jumping back and forth.
Make it your own
- Use cotton webbing for the neck strap instead of a sewn strip.
- Add a contrast pocket or a divided pocket for pens and a phone.
- Make a child's apron by scaling every measurement down by about a third.
- Sew a matching set as a gift with a cookbook or a set of wooden spoons.
Tips for a neat finish
Press at every step. A crisp fold sews straighter than a soft one. Turn straps with a point turner or a chopstick so the corners come out sharp. When you hem, do the top first, then the sides, and the bottom last. That order folds the corners neatly. Use a quarter inch seam throughout.
Common mistakes
- Cutting the strap fabric short. Leave at least 15 inches of fabric after the body cut, or the ties come out too short.
- Forgetting to leave a turning gap. Leave a few inches open on each strap and the pocket.
- Pocket in the wrong spot. Try the apron on and pin the pocket where your hand falls before you stitch.
New to the machine? Start with sewing a straight line and threading your machine. Then use the scraps for a scrunchie or try a pillowcase next.
