Utility Apron

     I've been searching the internet for patterns - I've been wanting to make some utility aprons. I found a really simple pattern here: http://www.sugarbeecrafts.com/
 Her pattern is very simple, but seemed like a good place to start. I wasn't sure about where I wanted the pockets, length etc...  I decided that I would figure it out as I went. What I ended up with is a practical apron for lots of different uses. It looks like this:

 As you can see there's a ton of pockets.  Small ones for business cards, narrow for pens and scissors, specially sized for glasses and cell phone or small camera. The pockets on the top are deep and wide, great for patterns, note books, your E-reader etc... My DIL actually used this one at a teachers conference she attended and it worked out great. 

     So, here's how it goes.......

1. Make a pattern ~ cause you know you can't just make one!

     Whenever I'm making my own pattern I write all the sewing instructions on the pattern as well as how many to cut and any tips that I figured out that I know will be helpful to remember.

2. Select your fabrics.

I always add interfacing to each piece - it helps maintain the shape and keeps your project sturdy.

3. Cut three sizes of rectangles, based on how large you want the finished length to be. You'll need 2 of each color.

4. Now for the easy part - stitch the fronts to backs wrong sides together for each color. Layer them according to size, decide where you want your pockets and stitch them in place, sew them together, fold the entire thing in half, right sides together, bringing the unfinished edges of the large rectangle together, sew up the sides, turn it right side out.

5. Make the ties the same way you make binding sew the ties to the apron encasing the top edge of the apron - Piece of cake!

These are great for all kinds of situations, cafeteria workers, sewers, crafters, conference attendees, teachers... the list is endless!