Sewing · Pattern
The Everyday Work Apron
A confident beginner can cut and finish this apron in an afternoon. It is drafted from plain rectangles with one curved shaping cut, sewn at a 1/2 inch seam allowance unless a step says otherwise. Finished it runs about 31 inches long and 28 inches wide at the hem.
Step by step
Step 1
Cut the pieces
Apron body: one rectangle 33 x 30 in. Waist ties: two strips 4 x 36 in. Neck strap: one strip 4 x 28 in, or 24 in for a fixed strap. Pocket: one rectangle 17 x 10 in. Optional towel loop: one strip 3 x 7 in. Prewash and press everything first, and transfer your marks before cutting.
Step 2
Shape the bib
Mark 11 inches across the centred top edge, then measure 10 inches down each side. Draw a gentle curve from each top mark to the matching side mark and remove the two corner sections.
Step 3
Finish the curves and straight edges
Press the curved side edges under 1/4 inch, then 1/4 inch again, and stitch close to the inner fold. Press the bottom and straight sides under 1/2 inch twice and topstitch.
Step 4
Make and attach the ties
Fold each tie lengthwise, right sides together. Sew one short end and the long edge, turn, press, tuck in the open end and topstitch all round. Attach at the side points with a reinforced square and diagonal cross.
Step 5
Build the neck strap
Make the strap the same way. For an adjustable version, secure one end to the apron and thread the other through the slider or D-rings.
Step 6
Set the pocket
Press the pocket edges under 1/2 inch, fold the top edge under another inch and stitch it. Centre the pocket about 8 inches below the top of the bib, stitch the sides and bottom, then add one vertical line of stitching to divide it.
Step 7
Reinforce and press
Add the towel loop at a side seam if you want one, backstitch every stress point, and give the whole apron a final press.
Natural cloth chosen for this apron will soften, fade and look better every year. That is the point.
The Mercantile Letter
Notes from the workroom
Seasonal shop openings, new patterns, and what's rising on the kitchen counter. Sent quietly, never often.