Beginner · 2 hours · 7 steps
How to sew a apron
An apron is a single flat piece with bound edges, a pocket and three ties. It's a straightforward sew, and because the armhole curves are bound rather than faced, it's the ideal project for learning bias binding.
How it's constructed
- Shape
- Bib top narrowing to a wide skirt
- Edges
- Bias binding around the curved sides, hems elsewhere
- One or two patch pockets, often divided
- Ties
- Adjustable neck loop plus two long waist ties
Fabrics that work
- Cotton canvas or drill for a hard-wearing apron
- Linen for a softer, lighter one
- Pre-quilted cotton if you want heat protection
What you'll need
- Bias binding, or fabric to cut your own
- Optional D-rings or a slider for an adjustable neck loop
- Strong thread
The steps, in order
- 01
Cut the apron body
A standard adult apron is roughly 70 cm long, 60 cm wide at the hem, narrowing to a 28 cm bib. Cut the side curves in one smooth line.
- 02
Hem the straight edges
Double-turn and stitch the top of the bib, the two straight sides and the bottom hem. Do these while the piece is flat.
- 03
Bind the curved armhole edges
Apply bias binding along each curve, letting the bias ease around the shape instead of stretching it, then edgestitch it down.
- 04
Make and attach the pocket
Hem the pocket top, press the other edges under, then topstitch it in place with reinforced corners. Add a vertical line of stitching to divide it if you want two compartments.
- 05
Make the ties
Cut two waist ties about 80 cm long and one neck strap. Fold, press, and topstitch each one closed, tucking the ends in.
- 06
Attach the ties securely
Stitch the waist ties to the top of the side curves and the neck strap to the bib corners, sewing a square or an X over each so they can't rip out.
- 07
Add adjustment if you want it
Thread the neck strap through D-rings or a slider so the apron fits different people.
Mistakes worth avoiding
Stretching the binding around the curves
The armholes then pull in and the bib sits away from the body.
Attaching ties with one line of stitches
They're pulled dozens of times a week and will tear out. Reinforce every anchor point.
Making the waist ties too short
They need to wrap and tie comfortably at the front — 80 cm each is a safe minimum.
Techniques used in this project
Each one is explained on its own page, step by step.
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