Testing Patterns -- Or -- Making Aprons for My Sister

So, here's the thing... My sister sent me pictures of vintage aprons. I don't know if she was hinting or not. I did take the bait and suggested that she find some fabric and send it to me. She sent me 4 pieces of fabric and gave me the direction to choose the patterns.  This is where it got interesting! Patterns are crazy expensive, except that they go on sale regularly. When this happens, I can pick up a handful of patterns for the price of one and I can play. Why would I buy a pattern for an apron for $15.95 when I can buy the apron at that price???

The first pattern is Butterick 5765. This is a fully lined number with welt pockets. The contrast waistband is slimming. Rather than making a front and lining and sewing these together, I made the top and attached lining, made the bottom and attached lining then sewed the waistband to the top sandwiching the seam allowance between the waistband and waistband lining piece. I attached the skirt to the waistband lining and than finish with top stitching the waistband to the skirt. I felt this gave the apron more stability. http://butterick.mccall.com/b5765-products-22662.php?page_id=871

You can find the pattern here. I will be making some of the potholders too.

 

 

 The next apron was view D from Butterick 4945. This one was supper easy to put together. This one way chocolate chip cookie print meant I needed a little more fabric than the pattern called for. I added some eyelet trim on the front. That horizontal line makes my dress form look busty. Or did I tie the apron too high up on the form??? I love the flounce. http://butterick.mccall.com/b4945-products-5295.php?page_id=2809&search_control=display&list=search

 This one is vintage pattern Simplicity 2592. http://butterick.mccall.com/search-pages-624.php?search_term=simplicity+2592&submit.x=0&submit.y=0
View A with color blocking instead of gathered lace trim. The orange trim is a cotton print cut into strips on the grain, ironed as if it were bias tape with the seams pressed to the center. Yes, mitered corners at the top and bottom turns of the zigzag. If you don't like the bib, you can wear that down behind the apron skirt. My sis will need to adjust the back straps that crisscross in the back. I think they are too long. The skirt has too many gathers for my figure and taste.

This was the last, and I think my favorite! Butterick pattern 5474. http://butterick.mccall.com/b5474-products-10857.php?page_id=2809&search_control=display&list=search I made only a few changes, like eliminating the contrasting waist band (cuts the figure in half). This is an awesome vintage print that is set off with the black high contrast ruffle. I love the not too full skirt and that flirty low neckline. My version also has only the one pocket. The double pocket and contrast pictured on the pattern throws off the symmetry.

These are in the mail sis. I hope you enjoy.

 

 

What I do...

My special talent: Putting sleeves on sleeveless dresses. Here are some examples;

 This one will be done soon. I have the beading to do around the neckline front and back. This dress is for a July 6th wedding.

It is what I do, that few are willing to attempt. And, I'm good at it!