https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/quilted-two-pocket-apron • Posted by Mrs. Wolfe
I needed to make ONE more apron (for my mother in law) after she saw the other ones- I figured I would take this opportunity to show how it was done. Forgive me if I missed anything or am not super clear on how to to a step. I tried to be descriptive and take as many pictures as possible but I know I'm not the best as explaining things.
I needed to make ONE more apron (for my mother in law) after she saw the other ones- I figured I would take this opportunity to show how it was done. Forgive me if I missed anything or am not super clear on how to to a step. I tried to be descriptive and take as many pictures as possible but I know I'm not the best as explaining things.
Make your pattern/s. I measured the length and height that I wanted my apron to be and then just put it down on paper. I've found that it's easiest to use a pattern that requires being on a fold. (It's keep it from being accidentally uneven, but it's up to you and how you want to do it.) (also- You will probably want to iron at each step. It makes a difference to have nice flat 'everything' while working. Though, if your pins are not glass head pins then do not accidentally iron over your pins. It's messy and ca ruin your project.)
Cut out your pieces. (With 1" seam allowance!) I cut four pieces for the back/base of the apron. 1 back, 1 front, and 2 lining/stiffening layers. It isn't necessary to do two stiffening layers if your lining is stiff enough but I LIKE four so that's what I do. Next cut the pieces for the pocket. I like to use the pieces that I cut for the back as guides for this; that way the 1" extra seem-line matches. Cut 1 back, 1 lining (if necessary), and 2 front (one patterned one solid). I like to cut the "back" out of the same material that was the apron base's front.
Sew right sides together along the "curved" side. Leave the straight upper section unsewn. In this case I put right sides together and then lining on the back of each one- I've found that this irons better and looks smoother in the end result.
Clip the curves- this is important because when you flip it inside out in the next step you want it to lay flat. Don't forget this step. (No need to do it on straight edges- just curved ones.)
Flip it inside out and iron it. Ironing at each step is a great way to see if something went wrong or needs seem ripping. I like to press the seam outwards with my hand and pin the edges before lightly going over it with the iron. Once the initial pass is over I remove the pins and then give it a good pressing/going over with the iron to make sure it's flat and nice. (It's important at this step to get it as flat and smooth as possible.)
I made a chalk line down the middle. I will then sew this line with a large basting stitch. (A large 5.0 on my machine) You want a basting stitch because this line will be removed later. It is only there to hold the fabric in place. Sew starting at the folded/sewn end- you need to stitch along the line to the 'top'. This is to hold the fabric in place and keeps things from shifting during the next part.
Now is the fun/pretty part. Decide how you want to quilt it. (For those of you who are confused "quilting" can refer either to the process of creating a quilt or to the sewing of two or more layers of material together to make a thicker padded material.) If your fabric already has a nice pattern you can follow it. If it doesn't then you can draw on your fabric with chalk or just do random squiggles. In my case- the black fabric that I'm using has a very nice crosshatch pattern and I have decided to make it pop with some Gold thread. (also- don't be afraid to add color/interest with your quilting via your thread!) Take your time, go slow, and remember- this is supposed to be fun.
Now we concentrate on the pocket layer. The only thing different about this section is that I snip a section and replace it with another fabric. (usually a solid) and I add a patch or embroidery section as decor. Once you finish the Embroidery then just repeat instructions 3-5.
Now I like to make my own bias tape. There are tutorials all over the internet that might explain this better than I can, but I will give it my best- I lay out a piece of fabric and fold it over at about 3 1/2 inches and iron it. Then cut it straight along the edge. Next I open it up and take the raw edges and fold them inwards towards the center line. (created by ironing it in half)
If you want an extra waistband it's the same as step 9 just a little larger and when you fold the rough edges only go halfway in.
(for waistband) To add strength to the waistband cut a layer of lining large enough to fit inside the waistband. Iron in half and then pin it to the apron.
Stitch it up. I straight stitched across and then added a decorative stitch in gold. (The decorative stitch helps to really lock it down just a smidge more AND it's pretty. )
Pin the bias tape edging to the pocket layer and sew.
Now it's time to sew the "pocket" onto the apron. Just pin it and stitch it up along the curve. Personally, I like to make sure it's really sturdy so I do a straight stitch first and then go over the edge with a tight zig-zag stitch to seal it up thoroughly.
Decide where you want your pocket line to be. I like to sew along the areas as marked. This gives me a small pocket, a phone or pen slot that my hand can fit in and a large pocket.
You are ALMOST done. Now- more bias tape and make sure it's long enough that it can wrap around your waist and be tied as this is your waistband ribbon. Then, you know the drill- pin it and sew it up!
Check everything for stray thread strands and cut those little buggers (do not tug them!) It should be ready to wear! Go and be proud of your accomplishment.