How to Make an Apron? (Homemade)

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Last Updated on September 3, 2023

Hello, my dear sewing friends! Today, we’re embarking on a 30-minute sewing project to create a versatile apron. Aprons aren’t just for the kitchen; they can be garden aprons, artist’s smocks, play aprons for children, or kitchen aprons.

How to Make an Apron

They make wonderful gifts and can even be a great item to sell if you’re considering a sewing side hustle.

How to make an apron?

How to Make an Apron

Here, we’ll draft the pattern and create both toddler and adult-sized aprons, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can complete this project. So, let’s get started!

Materials You’ll Need

  • Fabric (approximately one yard for adult size, less for toddler size)
  • Fabric type suitable for your intended purpose (cotton for the kitchen, denim or canvas for the garden, muslin for an artist’s smock)
  • Sewing machine
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Pins
  • Scissors
  • Bias tape or fabric for ties

Step 1: Drafting the Pattern

Drafting the Pattern - How to Make an Apron
Source: Thoughtful Creativity
  • Start by copying the measurements provided in the video for both toddler and adult sizes.
  • Each measurement corresponds to a specific part of the pattern and is labeled with letters for clarity.
  • Add a one-inch seam allowance to the side seams, bottom hem, and top hem. No seam allowance is needed for the curve of the apron since it will be covered by bias tape.
  • Note that the measurements for the ties will be discussed later in the process.

Step 2: Cutting the Pattern

Cutting the Pattern
Source: Thoughtful Creativity
  • Cut your pattern on the fold so that you have one full piece for your apron.
  • This will create symmetry in the design.

Step 3: Hemming the Apron

Hemming the Apron
Source: Thoughtful Creativity
  • Press the bottom hem, side hems, and top hems twice, folding each hem by half an inch.
  • This will ensure there are no raw edges visible in the final product.
  • Pin the folded edges in place and sew a straight stitch along the very edge of each fold.

Step 4: Reducing Bulk at Corners

  • Open the folded edges at the corners and trim a small piece off to reduce bulk.
  • This will prevent the sewing machine from struggling with the thickness.

Step 5: Adding Pockets (Optional)

  • If desired, attach pockets to your apron.
  • Fold and press the edges of the pocket sides that will be attached to the apron by half an inch.
  • Position the pockets on your apron and secure them in place.
  • Sew them down using a single or double row of stitches, or get creative with decorative stitches.

Step 6: Creating Ties

Creating Ties
Source: Thoughtful Creativity
  • Cut your ties on a 45-degree angle to ensure they have elasticity.
  • For toddler size, make two ties at 43 inches each. For the adult size, make two ties at 60 inches each.
  • Create bias tape from your fabric by folding the edges toward the middle and then folding it in half again.
  • Alternatively, you can use store-bought bias tape.

Step 7: Attaching Ties to the Apron

Attaching Ties to the Apron
Source: Thoughtful Creativity
  • Attach the right side of the ties to the wrong side of the curved part of the apron.
  • Sew them in place with a straight stitch along the fold.
  • Fold the bias tape over the raw edge of the curve, starting at the beginning of the tie, sewing over the curve, and finishing at the end of the tie.
  • This will neatly cover the curve and secure both ends of the ties.

Step 8: Final Adjustments

How to Make an Apron
Source: Thoughtful Creativity
  • Depending on the size of the wearer, adjust the length of the ties on the top and bottom of the apron accordingly.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve just completed a versatile apron in 30 minutes or less. This project allows for creativity and practicality, whether for yourself, a gift, or a potential side hustle. Enjoy your new apron-making skills, and explore other 30-minute sewing projects to expand your repertoire. Happy sewing!