Are you ready for a crazy-quick easy sewing project? I’m calling this the “half hour half apron” because it’s one of the fastest sewing projects I think I’ve ever completed.
Honestly, if I busted out a few more of these half aprons, I believe I could get my time down to 15 minutes. No sweat. My point is, this half apron is a breeze to make.
This DIY apron is a perfect beginner sewing project. Plus, who doesn’t need an adorable handmade apron in their kitchen? These half aprons also make a great gift. Let’s get started!
This half apron is made up entirely of rectangles, all of which are the same width. You only need to be able to single stitch in a straight line, and you don’t need a pattern. You don’t even need much fabric. So long as it isn’t stretchy, just about anything you have will work.
If you’ve ever doubted that you could follow a sewing tutorial, this is not that project! I’ve even put together a video so you can watch how to stitch this half apron together. Watch on, or keep reading for the step-by-step instructions.
Best Fabrics for Aprons
Aprons are a kitchen essential for home cooks and professional chefs alike. When it comes to choosing the best fabric for an apron, there are several factors to consider, such as durability, comfort, and ease of care. The most popular and practical fabrics for aprons are cotton, linen, and polyester blends.
Cotton is a natural fiber that is breathable, comfortable to wear, and easy to wash.
Linen is also a natural fiber that is known for its durability, absorbency, and ability to resist stains.
Polyester blends are a great choice for aprons that need to withstand heavy use and frequent washing, as they are durable, resistant to wrinkles and stains, and can hold their shape well.
Ultimately, the best fabric for an apron depends on the intended use, personal preference, and the desired level of care and maintenance.
Apron Making Materials
- 28″ of non-stretchy fabric, with a width of 58″. Cotton fabric, linen, or canvas are great.
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Sewing machine and notions
- Iron and ironing board
How to Make a Half Apron in 30 Minutes
Step 1
Start by cutting the pieces. There are four pieces total, all cut at a 28″ width.
The first piece is the body of the apron, and is 28″ wide and 36″ tall (in the picture this piece is folded in half lengthwise).
The waist straps (or apron ties) are made up of two identical pieces, both 28″ wide and 5″ tall.
Finally, the pocket is what’s left of your original piece of fabric, being 28″ wide and 12″ tall.
Step 2
Let’s start with the waist ties. Fold each piece in half, right sides in. Iron the fold folded edge.
Using a straight stitch, sew down the long side of each strap. At one end, make a 90-degree turn and sew to the opposite corner, creating a right angle.
Turn the straps right-side out, and press with the iron.
Step 3
Now to attach the straps to the body of the apron. Take the largest piece of fabric, and fold it in half right side in. It should measure 28″ wide and 18″ tall when folded.
Open the fold, and pin the raw end of one strap to the inside of the fold, with the strap leading inside the folded fabric.
Repeat with the other strap on the other side of the fold. Both straps should sit inside the folded fabric.
Pin up the sides of the folded fabric. Do the same along the bottom, but leave a 3-4 inch gap in the middle.
With a straight stitch, stitch along the three sides where you pinned, sewing the straps in place. Do not sew across the gap in the bottom.
Step 4
Through the gap along the bottom, turn the apron right-side out. Iron flat.
Step 5
And finally, the pocket! Press and sew a 1/4 inch hem along one long side of pocket fabric.
Step 6
With the hem-side up, pin the pocket to the apron, lining up the bottom of the apron with the bottom of the pocket. Turn and press the sides and bottom of the pocket in, and pin in place. With a single stitch, sew the pocket in place along the sides and bottom.
Next, mark 6.5″ in from both sides of the pocket. This divides the pocket into three sections – two small pockets on the side and one large pocket in the middle. Starting from the bottom of the pocket, stitch along both pinned marks with a single stitch.
And done!
I made my half apron from this sweet and simple linen print that I’m absolutely in love with. I’m already scheming alternative uses for this fabric so I can buy more of it.
Happy sewing!
