How to Make an Authentic Vintage Sewing Apron

Vintage aprons remind us of times gone by, when mom and grandmother were barely ever seen without one while toiling away in the kitchen making the things we all loved to eat. If you're planning to make your next sewing project a vintage apron, here's how you can make yours authentic.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Authentic apron pattern, including instructions
• Old sewing books
• Vintage notion: threads, buttons, ric rac, binding
• Appropriate fabrics
• An old sewing machine, if you'd like!
• Time, effort and a little research

1. 
   Old sewing books

   The first rule in making an authentic vintage sewing apron is to research the type of apron you'd like to make. This aids in your rendition's authenticity and refreshes you on old-time sewing techniques.

2. 
   vintage apron patterns

   Use an authentic vintage apron pattern or quality reproduction of an actual vintage apron.

3. Make a muslin of the apron prior to sewing. A general practice in old- time sewing to ensure the pattern works.

4. 
   old fabric

   Use fabrics that were appropriate for the period and type of apron you're making; paying attention to material, color and design of the fabric. Percale, dimity, dotted swiss, gingham, flowered lawn, duck and muslin were all popular choices.

5. 
   vintage thread

   Use vintage thread.

6. 

   Practice and improve hand sewing techniques for embroidering purposes, hemming and adding other special touches to make your apron your own; just as was done in the past.

7. 
   bias, ric rac

   Use vintage ric rac, bias, binding, braid, lace and ribbons.

8. 
   vintage buttons

   Use vintage buttons, snaps and closures.

9. 
   vintage embroidery design

   Use authentic transfer and embroidery designs.

Resources

• Making a real McCoy: an authentic vintage sewing apron

[JudyFord]

on 5/28/2009 My thirty-year old daughter loves vintage aprons. I intend to make her one for Christmas so I'd better start now. Thanks for the instructions.

[sewcraftful]

on 4/24/2009 Thanks Scarlett, I hope you're able to put your "stuffs" to good use. Vintage aprons are absolutely beautiful!

[ScarlettOHairy]

on 4/12/2009 I love these ideas for making vintage aprons. I have ALL of the necessary supplies, just need to do it!