I don't know about you, but I love aprons. I love them, I think because my grandmother loves them. She wears them daily just the way her mother did. Aprons are such a functional garment; they do the humble job of protecting other clothes. And even though this is their primary purpose, they're usually beautiful garments themselves; sometimes, I wear them just for that reason, and I'll bet I'm not the only one. Between my grandmother and I, we have quite the collection, and it's happened more than once that we've headed out of the house wearing one. 

Aprons come in all kinds of shapes and sizes; there are the traditional a-line shape aprons, there are those worn around the waist that looks like a skirt, there are pinafore style aprons, and so many more. Similarly to the many different kinds of aprons, they can be made from all types of fabric, including cotton, denim, canvas, and linen. Linen aprons specifically are one of my most favorite things, both to make and wear. There's something about the combination of two such humble things, linen and apron, that makes their coming together an extraordinary thing. Linen aprons are strikingly beautiful but also very functional; they're comfortable, last a long time, and get better with age, which is why they can also be one of those treasured handmade items passed down from generation to generation. 

Today I'm sharing a make from one of our earlier issues, Making No. 4 / LINES. I sewed up the Studio Apron by Cal Patch in our Angy Flowers Print Fabric, a combination that could not be more perfect. One thing I love about this pattern is how the instructions function less like a pattern and more like a friend guiding you through the cutting and construction in a way that allows the maker to customize the garment to their individual size, taste, and needs. Like Cal, I have a collection of aprons, some I've inherited, many have been given as gifts, and others I've made. Also like Cal, these days, I'm mostly drawn to simple, minimalist style aprons like this Studio Apron. 

Fabric

This project is perfect for beginners, and if you're newer to sewing or want to play around with a test version, maybe try repurposing fabric from old sheets or curtains so that you have a wearable muslin that was created from sustainable materials. If you'd like to make an apron from the same fabric I used, it's our Angry Flowers Print Fabric in Light Grey available in the shop. It's a truly special and versatile fabric; I've used it before for the Starry Sky Skirt and in our Scrap-Busting series for a Petal Pouch! 

 If you're looking for some tips on working with and linen, you might remember my post on the fabric in the Chaparral Overalls series, which is a great reference if you're new to working with the material. 

Serging

One of the great things about this pattern is that you don't need to have a serger or finish the edges because they're all hidden and tucked away. If you do, however, have a serger and would like to increase the longevity of your apron by reinforcing the edges further, you can choose to serge them before hemming or finishing, which is what I did. Having serged edges also gives the bonus of creating a quick guide for hemming. On my machine, the serged edge is a little under 3/8", which can create a pretty tiny hem. First, I turn one edge under the width of the serging, and then I turn it again. I usually get a pretty straight edge when I do it this way, and I don't even have to measure, which is the best part! 

Edgestitching

Although there is a specific foot that can be used for edgestitching, I've always done it the same way with a standard foot by moving the needle position and using the inside edge as a guide. If you haven't done it this way before, it might take a little getting used to, but for me, it's still more convenient to move the needle a little compared to switching the foot. 

Topstitching 

I love topstitching, and I add it wherever I can because it gives the item more strength and a more professional look. On this apron, I added topstitching around the pockets. I like to do my topstitching about 1/4" away from the original stitch line, and use the outside edge of the foot as a guide, similarly to when I do edgestitching. Turning corners can be a little tricky, so one helpful thing would be to measure and mark the stitch line at the corners so it'll be easy to know when to turn. 

Pockets 

Probably my favorite thing about this apron is all the pockets! The pattern has two pockets, one in the center like a kangaroo pocket, and another one the side. I decided to do two side pockets because I had enough fabric and found these to be an enjoyable addition. 

One thing I didn't initially add to the front pocket was a little section for pens. I'm always searching for pens around my house, so I thought, why not make a place specifically for them. I added a small 2.5" wide section on the front pocket, which perfectly fits two pens. 

Whether you're looking for a simple and modern style apron to be worn in the kitchen, garden, or beyond, the Studio Apron by Cal Patch is the perfect project. It can be found on pages 56-59 of Making No. 5 / LINES. Happy making! - Emily