Adjustable Apron
I wear aprons all the time, and I’m not kidding when I say “all the time”. My typical at-home outfit involves a bandana to keep my hair back and an apron to keep at bay all of the thread and fabric fuzz that follow me everywhere. When friends stop by unexpectedly they are always surprised by my house frau attire, but nobody wants a lint brush for a best friend!
As you might imagine, I have a good collection of aprons, many of them vintage and quite feminine. Some of my favorites include a pink one from the 50s made out of a feedsack and one with ruffles and a pie shaped pocket that my sister made for me. Even though I love them all, these fanciful aprons don’t come in very handy when it’s time to roll up my sleeves and get messy in the kitchen, nor does my husband really appreciate his options. So I decided to make a rugged, adjustable apron for both of us to use in the kitchen. It’s big enough to be worn by a 6 foot tall guy but can easily be folded up to fit a 5 foot 4 gal like myself. Plus the no-nonsense styling means neither of us will risk batter-splattered ruffles!
The Adjustable Apron is an update of a pattern I designed way back in 2008 called the BBQ Apron. Although this version is perfect for Labor Day grilling, its classic design and super simple construction make it useful well beyond the BBQ pit. I used some amazing new fabric, Kokka Canvas Ticking, which seems like it was born to be an apron. It’s both soft and strong and will wear and wash beautifully. I love its classic denimy feel and its subtle colors. Best of all this apron is beyond simple to make. It’s so easy that I think I might make two so my husband and I don’t have to share!
Update: February 2012
In February 2012 we made a a new version of this fantastic apron! For more images of the new version plus the pattern for the matching dishtowels, click here.
Designed by Purl Soho designer, Molly Schnick. Click here to see even more of Molly’s work!
Materials
For the Original Adjustable Apron
- 1 1/4-yard Kokka Canvas Ticking in Navy Thick for the body of the apron.
- 1/2-yard of Kokka Canvas Ticking in Navy Thin for the pocket.
- 3-yards Cotton Webbing in Natural
- 100% Cotton Thread in color 7400 (to match the apron fabric) and 1040 (to match the webbing)
Pattern
Marking and Cutting
Press the main body fabric in half lengthwise, selvedge to selvedge. Trim the top of the fabric so it makes a clean 90 degree angle with fold.
Using tailors chalk or an erasable fabric marker make a 1-inch vertical mark at the top of the fabric, 6 1/2-inches from the fold. This is mark A and is shown in red in the picture above.
Place a pin along the fold, 17-inches from the top of the fabric. This is mark B.
Make a mark using the chalk 13-inches from the fold and directly perpendicular to mark B. This is mark C.
Make a mark on the fold 20-inches below mark B. This is mark D.
Make a mark 20-inches vertically below mark C. This is mark E.
Using the chalk connect these marked lines together with straight lines as shown in red above, going from the bottom of mark A diagonally to mark C, then down to mark E and over to mark D.
Cut the apron out following along these lines. Here is a picture of it cut out but still folded down the middle.
Cut a 17-inch by 10-inch rectangle, with the stripes running horizontally for the pocket.
Sewing the Apron
Unfold the main apron piece.
Using the darker thread hem the top and straight sides by folding them over 1/2-inch twice towards the wrong side and edge stitching the folds down.
Hem the bottom in the same manner.
Zig zag stitch along the diagonal sides.
Press the diagonal sides down 1/4-inch to the wrong side and edge stitch them down.
Press the diagonal sides down 1-inch to the wrong side and edge stitch them down. This will form a scant 1-inch channel along the diagonal sides that the cotton webbing will be threaded through later.
Attaching the Pocket
Hem the top of the pocket by pressing it down 1/2-inch twice towards the wrong side and edge stitching the fold down.
Zig zag stitch along the three other sides.
Press the right and left sides towards 1/2-inch towards the wrong side and then press the bottom edge up 1/2-inch towards the wrong side as well.
Tuck the extra fabric of the corners inside of the pressed folds forming little miters as shown above.
Press the pocket flat.
Pin the bottom, left, and right sides of the pocket to the main apron panel, 2 1/2-inches below where the diagonal sides start and 4 1/4-inches from either side. Make sure it’s straight and centered.
Edge stitch the pocket on around the left, right, and bottom sides.
Using a Hera Marker or erasable fabric marker mark vertically along the pocket 3 1/2-inches from the left side and then 3 1/2-inches to the left of that mark.
Sew along these marks to form two pocket divisions for cooking tools.
Adding the Tie
Cut the cotton webbing to be 97-inches long.
Press the ends 1/2-inch to the wrong side twice.
Using the off white thread edge stitch these folds down.
Using a knitting needle or another long sharp opject pull one end of the webbing through the bottom left diagonal channel with the wrong side of the apron facing up.
When you reach the top of the apron turn pull the webbing out at the top and turn the apron to the right side. Being careful not to twist it thread the webbing into the opposite diagonal channel from the top, pulling it all the way through to the bottom of the channel.
Pull the webbing until both sides are equal and you’re all done!
Update 2024: You can explore our current collection of beautiful fabrics and supplies on our page of Sewing Tools + Notions!
What a fantastic idea…Brilliant….thankyou so much for sharing 🙂
Thanks for such a great pattern. I am making it right now for my husband's birthday. He doesn't like to share aprons, either. I am wondering the purpose of the zigzag stitch? Is it to prevent the material from raveling? Thanks, again, for a simple, practical idea that even I can make!
I believe the zigzag stitch is to avoid breaking the thread if the fabric gets stretched from use, washing, etc.
Hi Kayla-
The zig zag is to avoid fraying, so you don’t end up with a bunch of annoying stray threads when you pull the apron ties through the channel.
Thanks for getting in touch~
Best-
Molly
Thanks so much for sharing! This apron is so simple yet awesome. I have some amazing hand dyed fabric my mother got in china and it's so special i wanted to make something as useful, humble and cool as an apron. Your easy pattern is perfect. Simple and sweet and perfect!
Thanks!
Great pattern! Making two of these for sister and brother in-laws for Christmas gifts. One suggestion, instead of folding fabric in half,fold one side 14 inches leaves a larger price of fabric to make matching dish towels, pot holders or tote bags.
Thanks
if you'd like to see a really lovely finished version using the pattern, please look here: http://veryvision.net/post/14511424209/hannahs-apron
IN. LOVE. I was just about to sit down and make an apron for a newly married friend and stumbled upon this – I'm so excited! Love the simplicity… now need to make a his and hers. 🙂
I have to thank you for this tutorial. I was able to use it to make kid size aprons for the little boys in my life who want to help cook but can never find aprons their size that are not girly. If you like to see them I shared them on my blog. I'm very new to blogging and did my best to point my readers here to you.
I just finished 2 of these for Father's Day gifts and LOVE the pattern! Your tutorial is so easy to follow and the end result is a beautifully constructed apron. Thank you for sharing! I'm sure I will use it again!
Lovely Apron – I am inspired to go make one, or two, or five……
I have a suggestion for threading the tape thru the channels – use a large safety pin attached to the tape manouvering the pin to pull the tape thru. I do this all the time with elastic in leotard leglines. Works a treat and you don't lose the elastic as you work.
Thanks for this pattern – First thing I've ever properly sewn and I'm mega proud. The blog and patterns are pretty & inspiring and I have had some great ideas – including a fruit felt mobile for a newborn baby (thanks for the Apple Coasters, cant wait to make it!).
Look on my tumblr for the apron I made :). http://www.thechinacow.tumblr.com
Can you offer a good method to help the ribbon from slipping through the sleeves? I've made this and now the ribbon is thinking to slip through one of the sleeves…. please help.
Deanna
Hi Deanna-
It sounds like you just need to sew the channel that holds the ribbon smaller. So instead of folding the diagonal sides down 1-inch, try folding them 3/4-inch. If you want to fix an apron that you've already sewn 1/4-inch in from the existing seams.
Please let us know if you have any more questions.
Molly
Thank you for this tutorial. I used it to make a Christmas present for my children to give to their father's girlfriend (yes….I know…). I used a photo of them printed onto fabric as the pocket – and she loved it. So now I have linked to you on my blog!
http://alittlebirdmademe.wordpress.com/tutorials/
go ahead girl as we know life is to short!
Love this Apron Idea! I'm going to make this. I have been sewing for 40 yrs since I was 18. Very clever idea the way you put the webbing tie to serve two purposes & like the pocket for tools & maybe cell phone! Thanks Jean Hayes – Dunn, NC
makeing this for my grandaughter , loveit thank you
THANK YOU!!!! SO simple I will be making many – for allllllllllllllllllllllll my friends
You are a star!
Made one this morning, very easy. Thankyou.
tanks very good no speak english i am irani
My son-in-law does all the cooking. I think he deserves a real man's apron. Also everyone in this family is a different size so this coverup is perfect. Thanks.
Always difficult to make something for a man (in my opinion) but this is a great gift for my father's birthday!! It turned out great (damn, i want to keep it 🙂 ) Thanks for the tutorial
What a clearly explained pattern! Thankyou. I will be making several of these, thanks again from the U kK
Is the fabric folded
Inside out or right side out?
Hi Kathy s-
Are you talking about the initial folding, before you cut? If so, it doesn't matter if you fold it right sides or wrong sides together since it's a symmetrical piece.
Please let us know if this doesn't answer your question.
Molly
Just made 3 for Christmas presents…your instructions are so clear! Do you have the measurements for a child's apron…3 year old. Would love to make one to go with her Mom's! Maybe I will make one for her dolly as well! Thanks.
I have a question. When I open this pattern from the list of patterns, the majority of the pictures only open half way. The bottom half of the photo is green. Is this a problem with my computer or is it a problem with the images posted here?
Please help. I would like to make this pattern for a gift.
Thank you.
Hi Julie-
The images are loading fine for us. You might want to try opening this page in a different browser?
Hope that helps. Thank you!
Molly
Hi, I am so anxious to try this! I'm a new sewer so that may be the reason for my question… do you not sew the strap in place? Doesn't it move, or is that the purpose so it's adjustable? Love this idea and your fabric choice! Thanks!!
Hi Kristen-
Yes, the strap is adjustable so it is not sewn into place. It slides so it can adjust to any size!
Thank you!
Molly
This is my first ever sewing project and a great one to start with. Thanks a million for your great instructions, helpful images and for taking the time to post this pattern online!
very cute…..love it…
What an amazing tutorial. This is only my second sewing project and it came out beautifully! Thank you for the easy to follow instructions and photos. I hope the boyfriend likes his new apron!
Your instructions are very clear! Great job! I just made two for a couple getting married next weekend. I embroidered their names at the top and put their university's mascot on the pocket! Sweet gift and no cost…. I had everything I needed in my "stash". They look so cute! Thanks for the simple pattern!
Is there a pattern for this apron. when I click on pattern it only comes up with the instructions. please help. Really need to make for a gift, thank you
Hi Dorothy-
You don’t need a paper pattern for this, the complete instructions are in the pattern section. Please read through and let us know if you have any questions.
Thanks for getting in touch and good luck with the project
This is a fab tutorial, really easy to follow. I have made one and have another two cut ready to go. All for gifts, I can’t wait to give them.
Do you have a basic pillow case pattern, nothing fancy, just a bed pillow case.???
Hi Alberta-
Yes we do!
https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2014/04/20/corinnes-thread-pillowcases-for-every-bed/
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
You might want to sew the strap in place on one side, leaving the other side for adjusting. Also, a hanging loop tucked under the top hem is useful.
Hi Judith, I just made this apron and discovered if someone picked it up by the neck-strap, the entire strap would come out. I was attempting to find a solution to this problem while retaining the adjust ability of the apron. Thanks so much for the suggestion of just anchoring one side.
Thank you for your pattern! Was wondering what I would make for my two brothers for Christmas (beading earrings for my sisters!). Know I know what I am going to do!
I love this apron and was hoping to make it for my dad for Christmas. He is 6’8″ and I was wondering if you might have some size adjustment suggestions? I was just going to add a few inches to each dimension? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Hi Mary-
I think you’ll be fine following the pattern as is. Since the ties are adjustable it really fits anyone!
Thank you and good luck with the project!
Molly
Love, love, LOVE! I would like to make one for my daughter – who is 12. A little bigger than a kid’s size but smaller than adult. Any suggestions? THANK YOU!
Hi Sharon-
We actually have a kids version of this apron which you can see here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2014/03/23/mollys-sketchbook-kids-ric-rac-apron/
The larger size may be a bit small for a 12 year old, but please check out the finished measurements to make sure. If you would like to make it a bit bigger I would add 2 inches to the width and length of the original cut piece and then just follow the directions for the big kid size.
Please let us know if you have any more questions. This sounds like a lovely project!
Best-
Molly
Thank you so much for responding! Can’t wait to get started!
Just made a bunch of these in different colors to give as Christmas presents for my family and friends. They came out great! So excited to give them out next week!
I am so excited, I have been looking for a pattern like this forever. I have a special piece of cloth that I want to make this with. Here is my question. I am a beginner so bear with me. I am a big girl, How do I measure this so it fits me?
Thanks
Robin
Hi Robin-
I am confident that this will fit you! It fits me (I’m short and small) as well as my 6 foot tall husband (and it could easily fit someone taller). If you still have doubts the finished measurements are: 24-inches wide and 35-inches long. If that doesn’t seem tall and/or wide enough just add the extra inches you think you’ll need to the initial cutting. If you need help with the math just let me know!
Thanks for getting in touch and good luck!
Best-
Molly
Fun pattern, have loved making it today. Many thanks,
Finally! The apron I’ve been searching for!! Great lines, functional and not fru-fru at all. Can’t wait to make it. Thanks!!
Thank you for this pattern! It was very straight forward. I did notice something though. I’m only 5’1 and when I put it on, the tie in back tied around my butt, even though the top was as high as I could get it. I’m thinking that the 17″ mark might be too long of a distance between the top of the apron and where the tie comes out for the back. Unless I did it incorrectly, I’m thinking I just have a short torso! Going to try 13″ instead, so it ties around my waist.
Hi Kristy-
You didn’t do it incorrectly. On shorter folks (like you and I!) the apron is meant to be worn folded on itself at the center, as shown in the first photo. If you would like to make one that fits without folding I would recommend this pattern: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/12/13/mollys-sketchbook-simple-linen-apron/
It is finished differently but you can follow the cutting instructions for the apron piece and pocket then follow this Adjustable Unisex Apron pattern for the finishing if you like.
Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Best-
Molly
Thanks for the pattern – it looks very simple to make. I am going to use the same material for the ties as well as the body – I would like to make one for my mother for mothers day and need your advice. I have measured one of my mother’s aprons to get some idea of the size as she is very petit. I have measured 30 inches long and 23.5 inches wide, so you can see that she is very short. I’m not sure how far down to measure at B – would it be the same or a bit shorter?
Hi Margaret-
If you are making this only for your mom and not to share with someone larger I would recommend using the cutting measurements from this other apron pattern: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/12/13/mollys-sketchbook-simple-linen-apron/%5D and then just following the rest of the pattern as written.
I hope this helps. Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
Thanks for the memories! This is an old pattern that I used way back in the 60’s as a new mom. Got it from my sister-in-law and she had used hers for a few years so it is pretty old pattern. Still works good
today too!
Hi Linda!
I’m so glad to hear that you like this pattern. I haven’t seen the older patterns for aprons like this that you mention. I actually got the idea to make an adjustable tie from an old apron from India that I unearthed at my parents house! But it is a timeless idea and I’m so glad to hear that your aprons are still in use today!
Best-
Molly
Thank
Can this pattern be duplicated, sewn and made, and then be sold online. Are there any copyright laws or can anyone make and sell these at will? Thanks. Great pattern.
Hi Ann-
We’re sorry, items made from our patterns cannot be sold or auctioned. All of our patterns are copyrighted and are intended for personal home use only.
Please let us know if you have any more questions and thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
thank you so much for sharing that awesome apron pattern. Just love it and I’m also making one for my friends. I hope it’s okay to share one with them since it’s a gift and not for selling.
Hi Claudia-
Of course! What a lovely gift!
Molly
This is the first apron pattern that I actually want to make as I’m not a girly girl (and as a baker I NEED one). Thanks for the pattern.
I am new to sewing and want to make a Dr Who apron for my boss, who is a gourmet cook. He is 6’4″ and weighs 420 pounds. Needless to say he can’t fit in a store bought apron! So can you give me suggestions to modify? Dimensions? Amount of fabric I’d need? Thanks!
Hi Kim-
I do think that the dimensions of this apron would work for the height if you perhaps just added a couple inches in width. I hope this helps. Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
Instead of webbing ribbon, could I use fabric I cut and sewed together? What dimensions, 1 inch?
Hi Anna-
Sure! You may want to make bias tape using our 2-inch bias tape maker (the finished tape will be 1-inch wide): https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/4280-Clover-Bias-Tape-Maker-50mm
Thanks for the question!
Molly
This is such an amazing guide! You broke it down so easy, I am actually going about purchasing the materials now because I was just thinking that I needed an apron!
Thanks for sharing it
-Taylor
I made this apron a long time ago. I used scraps of denim and purchase some cotton cord for the ties.
What is the difference between the original apron and the updated apron? Is one bigger than the other? Better?
Hi Amanda-
It’s the exact same pattern- just made with different fabric.
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
Can you tell me how i can modify the measurements to make an apron for a 5-6 yr old? Thanks!
Hi Gauri-
We actually have a kids apron pattern made in the same manner as this project: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2014/03/23/mollys-sketchbook-kids-ric-rac-apron/
Thanks for getting in touch and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Best-
Molly
We made a similar pattern for our church crafters, now we want to make some for in the kitchen. My problem is that when the craft ladies put on the apron, they put it over their heads and the tie pulls right out of the casing. Any ideas to help us from having this happen?
Hi Laura-
You can either tie knots at the end of each tie or you can sew one end of the tie into place along the channel making just one side adjustable.
I hope this helps! Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
Hi I love this tutorial but I want to make solid ties and neck. What measurements would I use for the ties around my back if I wasn’t treading them through. Enough to tie around an average size woman. Thanks!!
Hi Emily-
I would either measure an apron you have that you think fits well or take a look at our Simple Linen Apron project, which has fixed ties around the waist: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/12/13/mollys-sketchbook-simple-linen-apron/
Thanks for getting in touch and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
That was easy and looks great. Thanks for the instructions, everything went smooth and was bang on. I’m book marking this one!
My grand daughter wants this apron in the same fabric, where can I find the fabric! I do have the smaller stripe, but not the large stripe!
Hi Jan-
Unfortunately we no longer have the wide stripe. The Slub Stripe Denim here might be a good alternative but it’s a much lighter weight:
https://www.purlsoho.com/fabric/by-the-yard/railroad-denim.html
Or, if you’re looking for a heavier weight you may find something in our heavyweight category here:
https://www.purlsoho.com/fabric/by-the-yard.html?type_filter=896
Thank you for getting in touch!
Molly
I made this apron in March for my 12-year-old niece. I used zebra print fabric & hot pink grosgrain ribbon for the ties – it was a huge hit! Thank you! 🙂
I have made 2 of these now, one for myself and one for my boyfriend. I got a full yard of the pocket fabric and was able to make a whole other apron body. Although folding the body material in half selvedge to selvedge is easiest for alignment, it seemed wasteful to break the fabric into two smaller pieces rather than one larger piece. I used the body material from the first apron as the pocket of my second apron instead of making 2 identical aprons. I am 5’7″ and I guess I have a short torso but I prefer my tie being above my love handles and with the given dimensions it tied around my bum. With some adjustments the aprons look great and the guide was east to follow. I would suggest to someone making their first apron to measure on yourself as you go and adjust the pattern to suit your needs 🙂
Hello, Pearl!
Thank you for writing in! We are delighted that you were inspired by our pattern and were able to make 2 aprons with little waste! Thank you for your suggestions, I am certain someone in our crafting community will appreciate your insight! Again, thank you!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
I didn’t take the time to read all previous comments so I may be repeating a suggestion that helps me. I HATE threading anything through a casing but have found various sizes of safety pins work the best. Just pin one to an edge and insert into the casing. You just pull on the fabric and push the pin along. Nothing catches or pops a hole in the fabric as some knitting needle or even store bought aids might. LOVE this pattern! Thanks.
Hi Maryanne-
Thank you for this great suggestion!
Molly
Just finished up this apron…. it looks FANTASTIC. I am however, having a bit of an issue with my webbing. I think perhaps the webbing I purchased it’s too thin?? It is traveling very easily through the apron and the weight of the apron when putting it on causes the apron to slide down the webbing. Do you have any suggestions or should I just search for some better/thicker webbing??
Thank you!!
Hi Ariel-
I’m so glad you like your apron! I doubt you bought the wrong sized webbing, or even if you did it’s an easy enough fix! You can either sew over your channel a 1/4-inch in from your original stitch line to make the channel thinner, or you can tack the webbing on one side of the channel. For this option I would sew the webbing in place to the channel at the point where it comes out to tie at the waist, just make sure it’s long enough to tie comfortably.
I hope this makes sense. Please let me know if you have any more questions!
Molly
GENIUS! Thank you so much for your reply! Love you guys and the store! xo!
I’m a novice. Is there a voiced video of this pattern?
Hi Eleanor-
There is no video for this pattern, but we would be happy to answer any questions here! This pattern is totally appropriate for a beginner!
Thanks for getting in touch and good luck with the pattern.
Molly
My 9 year old granddaughter just finished this as her 4H fair project. The straight lines made it so easy for her. Thanks for the pattern
The apron looks so lovely and I absolutely want to give it a try!
I am however having a tricky time with the inches, my country uses the metric system and I am a bit lost as to how to convert the measurements to cm, would it be easy to make a version in cm?
Hi Susie,
Thanks for writing in! Switching from inches to cm should be fairly easy. If you google “converting inches to cm”, a handy convertor comes up that you can type inches into and get the resulting cm measurement!
Happy sewing!
Cassy
Thank you I will try to check if I get logical measurements from converting hehe
I Look so forward to making this!
A few things: Too long overall, and the spot where the tie comes out is way too low (I had to go back and move it up 5 inches. I would also make the space across the front not as wide because it bows out on me when it’s on.
Cool design otherwise!
I love this apron pattern and will make at least one for my husband who is quite tall and needs a rugged one for grilling. I’ll probably make another one for me for those times I’m canning, which can be quite messy. Although I have several aprons I’ve made myself plus a few gift aprons, I want one that I don’t mind getting stained with tomato juice, etc. I especially like the way you made the neck strap portion so adjustable which is a problem with other aprons that don’t have time consuming adjustable fasteners (for those who make their own). Thank you!
What a fantastic idea to make it adjustable!
Very clever….thank you.
Thank you for sharing. I work in a school kitchen and love to have crazy print aprons. Now I can make my own with prints I like.
this is GORGEOUS!! I’d love to make one for my husband.
But I’m not seeing the link for the pattern…I’ve looked all over this page and can’t find it…can you help? Thanks so much!
xo
Hi Rachael,
Thanks for writing in! This is not a traditional paper pattern and as such there is no pdf or paper pattern to print out. The cutting instructions are included in the top of the pattern. You will chalk in the pattern based on the measurements and the cutting layout. Let me know if you have any other questions — I’d be glad to help!
Best,
Cassy
How can I adapt this for a 6′ tall man who weighs 275? Is it possible?
Hi Carol,
Unfortunately we don’t have this pattern in a larger size. I would recommend lengthening the straps and the bottom by a few inches. I will be sure to pass along your idea!
Best,
Carly
Easy leash and great looking!!
Thank you for the great pattern. I just made a denim apron for my son in law for Christmas. After reading all of th comments I added on inch in lenght to accommodate his height. It looks good.
Happy Mother in law
I’ve made the children’s version & it was great! Is there a reason for the 1″ measurement at the top as opposed to just doing a straight triangular cut? It’s not part of the children’s version.
Hi Natalie,
Thanks for reaching out! On the adult version of this lovely apron, the 1 inch mark is to give you room to fold down and sew the top seem before sewing the side channels that will hold the adjustable ties. The children’s version is a bit shorter in top torso area than the adult version and thus we do the straight triangular cut there. The 1 inch mark allows for a touch more of a finished look and gives more space for the longer adult torso!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Great apron
I just made and donated 20 aprons for the grade one class at a local school. You pattern and instructions were perfect, simple and easy to follow. Thank you so much for posting this.
Hi Louise,
Thank you so much for your kind words! We are so grateful for your support!
Best,
Carly
I like that you explain clearly. Some people don’t do like this. I stay at home because I have depression so I need to do something so I search at this site. And I found this and I’m so happy. I can not afford to attend sewing things with money yet. So this is so cool. May the Good Lord bless you all. Thanks a million.
I’m pretty short and the first apron I made was too long from the top of the bib to the waist. So I made the following adjustments to the pattern:
1. Top of the apron to Point B is 14” (instead of 17”)
2. Point B to point C is 12” ( instead of 13”)
3 . Dimensions of pocket are 16” X 10” (instead of 17” X 10”). Center pocket on apron like in the original pattern.
This one fits perfectly and I love it.
Hello Lauren,
Thank you for reaching out and sharing your experience with this pattern! I’m happy to hear that in the end it was a success, I’m impressed with your skilled alternations!
Happy Sewing!
-Marilla
Thank you Lauren for the information for short people ?!
I really was I interested in making an apron but not sure of cutting down the dimensions. ?
I love the different types of aprons…I love to sew as to paint ceramics…knit..cook..etc…everything done with the hands.
This looks like such a great project! For the life of me, I can’t find where to download the pattern…can you provide the link?? Thank you! 🙂
Hello Rachel,
Thanks for reaching out! If you’re on a desktop version of the site, you will find a “print” icon in the right column just below the date and tags. If you’re on a mobile version of the site, you will find a “print” icon below the pattern and above the comments.
Follow the easy on-screen instructions to delete whichever parts of the pattern you don’t want to print or save. For example, you may decide to shorten the pattern by omitting certain images or the list of materials. To remove images, click the drop down next to the image icon and change from 100% to 0%.
Happy sewing!
-Marilla
I made it for my son who does the grilling at his home. So easy, So fun. Very easy to follow directions.
I am new to sewing and took on this project as one of my first. Directions were excellent and the apron turned out great. It will only be for me and I am small so I plan to cut a few inches off for the next one and would also like to find something with less weight for the ties for a daintier look and feel. Also plan to make more for myself and for gifts to family members. So many possibilities!
I love this pattern! It was very easy to follow and for the most part I’m happy with it, but the straps fall right below my hips rather than the lower part of my back. I’m 5’9 and have a fairly long torso, so I’d just recommend making the slanted part at least a few inches shorter unless you’re at least 6’ or don’t mind folding it up!
Thank you SO much for this tutorial!! It was exactly what I needed to quickly make aprons for my daughter’s birthday party!!
Gonna try this clever way to belt . Thanks
Would like to sew the apron for two teen-aged granddaughters as Christmas gifts. One is 5′ 9″, the other approximately 5′ 4″ and both are quite slim. Should I make pattern adjustments for perfect fit? I don’t have their measurements. Looking forward to your reply.
Hi Therese,
Thanks for reaching out! It sounds like your granddaughters are the same height as an average adult, so I think you could make this one-size-fits-most apron without any adjustments for them. Even if it is a bit large, it’s easy to adjust the waist by tying it tighter, and they can continue to use and appreciate their aprons for many years to come!
Best,
Julianna
Thank you for your prompt answer to my question. Now I’ll get busy. It’s not too soon to start sewing for Christmas!
I just wanted to ask how long is this, I’m only 4’10” and everything is always to long for me. How can I adjust the length?
I love the easy instructions you give.
Hi Patty,
Thanks so much for the kind words and for writing in! The finished apron measures about 35 inches from top to bottom after hemming. You can easily fold up the waist when tying the apron on to shorten it, but if you would like to make it a bit shorter to begin with, I would recommend removing length from the bottom rectangle either when cutting out the apron or by making the bottom hem deeper.
I hope that helps!
Julianna
Thanks for the tutorial, just what I needed for my niece training in a restaurant to be a manager. 🙂 Made this, however, in all black (her request), including the sash which I made from the same cloth.
Great directions! I made this today using white denim/twill and lemon themed material for the pocket, with green bias tape for the drawstring. It looks store-bought! I love it and I bet my daughter will too. Thank you for the instructions!
Thank you for clear, easy, and so doable directions! I haven’t sewn in years and needed a project to ease me back in. Couldn’t find an apron pattern I liked at local store …so bought fabric there on Friday, and made this in one go Sunday AM. So happy to be back in the saddle.
Does this have to be make in heavy weight material? Can it be made in 100% cotton quilting weight material……regular weight material?
Hi Elizabeth,
Thanks for reaching out! You could make this apron in a quilting weight fabric if you wish, but you may find that it doesn’t hang quite the same way ours does. In a simple, straight apron like this, a heavier fabric helps it to lay flat and stay tidy, while a lighter weight fabric may bunch up as you walk and move. It won’t affect the utility of the apron, however!
I hope that helps!
Julianna
Would this work with lightweight oil cloth?
Hi Amy,
Thanks for reaching out! Yes, I think oil cloth like Merchant & Mills Dry Oilskin would be excellent for a heavy duty apron!
Best,
Julianna
Thank you for the pattern! I used one 45” half round 1/4” shoelace in a complimentary color, cut in half, stitches into the upper bib corners which hides their raw edges nicely. They wash up nicely too, colorfast.
Hi Janet,
So glad to hear that you enjoyed the pattern! And what a great idea to use the shoelaces!
Best,
Cassandra
I can’t wait to make one of these. Ok, maybe a couple. I need one for sewing and cooking. I like loads of pockets on my aprons. I have several half aprons, and a couple of full ones. One I made, and one I bought, but has no pockets. Thank you so much for this tutorial. Love love love it!
Thank you!!! I’m making one for my hubby and dad for Father’s Day.
I love your patterns. However, there was a period of time when I attempted to print them, and they came out like gibberish – the same with the PDF versions. Then that cleared.
This apron pattern is back to the gibberish when attempting to print and/or save as a PDF.
I’ve even gone through the “screen shot” trip and edited the file to make it look and read normally.
HELP! Thanks
Hi Angela,
Thanks for writing in, and I’m so sorry that you are having trouble printing our patterns! I’m not aware of any current issues with our print function, but if you reach out to [email protected], our customer service team will be able to help you sort this out!
Best,
Julianna
Just made two of these aprons to give as gifts and love the way they turned out! I added a half circle of terry cloth on sides to wipe/dry hands. Pretty sure I’ll be making one in the near future for myself.
Hi Paula,
Thanks for reaching out! What an excellent idea, adding terry cloth to dry your hands is so creative! That is such a thoughtful gift (I think you may need one for yourself as well!) Also, thank you for sharing you tips with everyone, it is much appreciated.
Warmly,
Gianna
Hello,
Love the look of this apron and the clear instructions. Gathering materials to make for a dear friend. Could you please clarify the size of the cotton webbing strap? Is it 1” wide? Thank you!
Hi Vanessa,
Thanks for reaching out! What a great gift this will be! Yes, the cotton webbing is an inch wide and you can find our PURL SOHO Cotton Webbing here!
Warmly,
Gianna
Hi, I want to make an apron with your pattern. However, I want to make it 30″ wide. If I alter the width, will the top (bib) part still be ok? I don’t want it to bunch up underneath my arms.
Thank you, Mechthild
Hi Mechthild,
Thanks for reaching out! The original width is approximately 26″ wide, so I think extending it to 30″ wouldn’t make too much of a difference for the top half!
Warmly,
Gianna
Love this pattern so much. Do you have measurements for kids sizing?
Hi Jacinta,
Thanks for reaching out! We only offer this pattern in one size, but I think you could easily adjust the dimensions to fit a kid depending on their measurements!
I hope this helps, happy crafting!
Gianna
I love this pattern! It’s cute, easy to see how simple it is use. Great for Christmas gifts! I;m just getting better from a very serious illness and can’t wait to start on my crafting. Thank you so-o-o much!!
Can’t wait to make this apron. Please clarify. If the webbing is 1″ why are you folding over only 1/2″ for the casing. What am I missing?
Hi Debby,
Thanks for reaching out! For the casing, you will actually press the diagonal sides down 1/4-inch then you will press the diagonal sides down 1-inch to the wrong side and edge stitch them down. This will form a scant 1-inch channel along the diagonal sides that the cotton webbing! You can find this information under the SEWING THE APRON section of the pattern!
I hope this clears things up!
Gianna
Hi! Could this work with 1 yard of fabric?? I have a fabric I’m looking to use that’s only 1 yard…! I would love to use it if it would work!! Love this pattern idea!
Hi Riley,
Thanks for reaching out! This pattern requires 1¼ yards of the main fabric, but you may be able to get away with a yard! You may have to adjust the dimensions of the pattern pieces slightly, but just be sure to measure everything out prior to cutting the fabric!
I hope this helps!
Gianna
I absolutely love this pattern and have started making them for all the women in the family in readiness for birthdays and Christmas presents …. plus a few extra to put in as raffle prizes . Thank you so much for sharing.
I love this pattern and plan on making several . Thank you so much very easy to follow and understand . One question instead of using the webbing , could fabric be used to make tie ?
Hi Penny,
Thanks for writing in! That is a great question, I think you could definitely use fabric instead of webbing!
Happy crafting!
Gianna
This is the best pattern I have seen. So happy to have clear instructions. Thank you.
Hi Kathy,
Thanks for writing in and for your kind words! We’re so happy to hear that you’re a fan of this pattern and hope you’re having fun making it!
Have a great day!
All the best,
Cat
I like the design but am not savvy enough to pare it down for a 9yr old’s birthday gift!
Hi Maureen!
Thanks for writing in. While this apron does not have kid’s sizing, I can recommend our Kid’s Ric Rac Apron, which is sized for children age 2-10 years!
I hope this helps!
All the best,
Margaret
I would love to make this pattern as a Christmas gift. Considering this is an apron, I fully expect my husband will need his washed at some point. Did you prewash and dry your fabrics? Does the yardage required take any shrinkage into account? Which of your current fabrics would you recommend for this project?
Thanks!
Hi Elli,
Thanks for writing in! We did prewash and dry the fabric for our sample of the apron, and the yardage does take into account any shrinkage.
I’d recommend using Robert Kaufman’s Essex as a substitute fabric. Essex is a sturdy, yet soft, fabric, so it will be similar to the original fabric used! Another option for a sturdy fabric would be Merchant & Mills’s Dry Oilskin, which is treated for water resistance and is great for outerwear, totes, and daily accessories. Hope this helps!
All the best,
Lili
I will be making this apron a a gift to the chef at my wedding! I hope to get it done in under an hour> I had a different pattern but this one seems so simple I will be using it instead. Hope it come out ok.
What great directions! This is, I believe, the 4th time making it! THANK YOU. I did make the channels for the cotton webbing 1.5 inches which worked out perfectly.
A KEEPER PATTERN!
Thank you for this fabulous, easy pattern! I am about to make this apron for a good friend, and I am sure she’ll love it.