Japanese Cross Back Apron Tutorial – with FREE Pattern

Last Updated on November 15, 2023

Today, we’re diving into the intricate yet rewarding process of creating the Cross Back Dawn Apron, a beautiful Japanese cross back apron.

In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through the process with detailed instructions to ensure your project turns out just as beautifully as mine did.

Japanese Cross Back Apron

Highlights:

  • Customize your apron pockets by adding elastic for extra security or leaving them unscented. Ensure a polished finish by sewing along the curved edges.
  • Master the art of creating double folds for straps, giving your apron a professional look. Cross the back straps and secure them with a clean stitch for a polished finish.
  • Achieve a neat neckline by employing the pivot technique instead of a traditional backstitch. This small detail adds a touch of elegance to your apron.

Japanese Cross Back Apron Tutorial Pattern

Japanese Cross Back Apron Pattern

Overlock pockets and side seams, attach and secure pockets, create double-folded straps, finish the neckline, and hem the edges for a beautifully crafted apron.

To make a Japanese cross back apron using the Dawn pattern from Lydia Naomi, follow these steps:

Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials, including the pattern, fabric, elastic, and any additional tools like a Clover Loop pressing bar or a safety pin.

Step 1: Overlock and Prepare Pockets

Overlock and Prepare Pockets
Overlock and Prepare Pockets

Begin by overlocking the pockets and apron side seams according to the diagram provided in the pattern. Then, double the pocket’s top edge by half an inch (13 mm) and sew close to the fold.

If you add elastic to the pockets, ensure it’s secured at both openings with a stitch.

Adjust the stitch length to sew at 1/4 inch (6 mm) along the curved edges of the pocket to create a nicely folded edge.

Step 2: Attach Pockets to Apron

Attach Pockets to Apron
Attach Pockets to Apron

Place the front and back apron pieces on the right sides together, sew them together at 1/4 inch (6 mm), and press open the side seams.

Mark the pocket drill holes on both sides and attach the pockets at the marked spots. Sew around the edges with a sturdy backstitch to secure the pockets in place.

Step 3: Create Straps

Create Straps
Create Straps

Finish the large curved area and the back straight area on both sides of the apron by creating a double fold with the wrong sides up at 1/4 inch (6 mm).

Cross over the long back straps to line up with the front top edges and sew across the entire top at 1/4 inch, catching the straps.

Press the seam down and fold in the front top of the apron, securing the straps in place with stitching.

Step 4: Finish Neckline

Finish Neckline
Finish Neckline

Fold up the hem at 1/4 inch along the edge and press firmly. Fold it in another inch (2.5 cm) and sew to finish the neckline.

For a neater look, try the pivot technique instead of a backstitch at the start and end of your stitching.

Step 5: Hemming

Hemming
Hemming

Finally, press firmly and fold up the hem at 1/4 inch along the edge. Fold it in another inch (2.5 cm) and sew to complete the hem.

Conclusion

Now you’ve successfully crafted a beautiful Dawn Apron using the Japanese cross back pattern. Whether it’s a thoughtful gift or a personal project, this apron is sure to bring joy and functionality to your kitchen endeavors

Ask any Question Here!