How I sewed an apron (with a free downloadable pattern)

A woman wearing a sheep-patterned apron over a white long-sleeve shirt, smiling while standing indoors.

I made this apron for my friend Vickie (late birthday gift) who is wonderful in cooking (great chopping skills may I say). This was also a good chance for me to try out my new vintage sewing machine which works like a dream and it was quite affordable on e-bay. Few things had to be fixed of course, but I still recommend old fashioned machine to anybody who wants to sew (not manual however, unless you want to be making apron for one month). And if you do get a vintage machine I really recommend Jennie (from London) who was really really helpful (and positive), it was so lovely to meet her!
Anyway I made the apron… happy happy! (I used to sew a lot in the past when I studied Fashion at Uni, so was feeling a bit nostalgic, missing all this sewing experience)…. And this is how you could make it too…

You can download the apron pattern here!

1. First, cut out the pieces according to the measurements provided! Give 3cm seam allowance everywhere except the pocket (square piece) which is 2cm allowance.

Close-up of a light fabric with a sheep print, featuring sewing patterns for an apron.

2. Then make two strips for tying on the back (long ones) and one for the head loop (shorter one) by folding in the ends, then the edges and stitching alongside.

A close-up of a person's hand holding a piece of fabric, likely a strap for an apron, laid on a wooden surface.

Close-up view of a vintage sewing machine stitching a piece of fabric.

3. Start with the main apron piece by folding bottom edge twice (1.5cm each time) and stitching it down.

A close-up of a hand pointing at the edge of a fabric piece that is being ironed, showcasing the detail of the fabric and stitching.

Close-up of the bottom hem of a handmade apron featuring a sheep print design, laid on a wooden surface.

4. Repeat the same with the top edge, except that this time insert the strip (shorter one) to make a loop.

Close-up of a partially finished apron with a light fabric and a decorative sheep pattern on the hem, showcasing the sewing details.

5. Stitch down the strips again so they stand upward.

Close-up view of a handmade apron featuring a pattern of sheep, displayed on a wooden surface.

6. Do the same for the sides and insert one strip on each side to make the ties.

Close-up of a vintage sewing machine working on a fabric with a sheep pattern, showing pinned edges in preparation for sewing.

7. Stitch strips down again so they stick out.

Close-up of the edge of a handmade apron showing a sheep-patterned fabric and a neatly sewn strap.

8. Now the last bit left is to fold (twice) and stitch the curvy edges (Tip: Use an iron to press them down so you don’t fiddle with that when you are sewing).