Project Overview

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Learn how to draft a work wear apron perfect for ceramics, woodworking, gardening, and any other activity where you need leg coverage and mobility. Customize your apron to fit your body measurements, height, and activity needs. You have an option to create a split leg or single front. This class is an excellent introduction to beginner garment sewing with a low-stakes project to build confidence.

You will learn how to finish edges with double-fold hems and bias tape, attach pockets and straps, and get lots of practice edge stitching, topstitching, pressing, and managing bulky seams.

If you’d like in-person support and instruction, please sign up for my classes at Modern Domestic or contact me to schedule a private lesson. Terms that are bolded and highlighted are defined in my Sewing Glossary post.

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Download a PDF of the tutorial here:

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About the Base Pattern

This tutorial is a split-leg modification of the Helen’s Closet Sam Apron, available to download for free by signing up for the Helen’s Closet newsletter. I chose the Sam Apron as my base pattern because Helen’s Closet Patterns have detailed instructions that are excellent for beginners and their patterns are generally size and gender inclusive. The Sam Apron accommodates a 33”–62” hip measurement and heights of less than 5’ to over 6’ tall. The original Sam Apron pattern includes chest and waist pockets, towel loops, two strap options (a modern cross back apron or a classic halter neck) and lots of customization options. You can browse the #SamApron hashtag on Instagram for inspiration.

Tutorial Use Guidelines

Supply List

I Choose Your Size

Select a View and Plan Customizations

Choose a view: cross-back straps (View A) or a traditional halter neck (View B)?
Select your fabric
Matching or contrasting fabric for the pockets, straps, and bias tape?
Strap material: fabric, webbing, or twill tape?

Customization Ideas

Add strap hardware?

Removable cross-back straps with grommets and swivel clips (see pg. 6)
Adjustable halter neck with D-ring (see pg. 19)

Pocket shapes, sizes, dividers, and positions

Chest pocket, thigh pocket, large kangaroo waist pocket

If you’re planning to use this apron for throwing on a pottery wheel, I recommend thigh pockets that are positioned near the outer edge of the apron so they don’t get in the way when you bend forward at the waist.

Layer pockets on top of each other (e.g., pencil or coin pocket)
Add a patch, woven label, embroidery, or decorative stitching
Secure pocket corners with rivets instead of bartacks

Use a contrasting thread color for topstitching and/or bartacks
Towel loops: fabric, webbing, or twill tape? Sewn on by themselves, tucked into the waist seam, or one end secured under a pocket?

Modify the Pattern

Cut Your Fabric

Final Touches

Keep In Touch

Thanks very much for reading! If you have any questions, feedback, or corrections regarding the tutorial, please don’t hesitate to contact me! I’d love to see what you make, so please tag me on Instagram and use the hashtag #SincereStocking. You can also find me and this tutorial on Threadloop.