sewing the purl soho cross back apron

I’ve been adoring these Japanese style cross-back aprons for a while now, so I finally decided to make one. A cute, free-spirited apron craft seems especially fitting with the recent launch of our foodie sister site Blended Palate. It also gives me an opportunity to test a free pattern from one of my favorite shops – Purl Soho. So here you go – a comfy boho apron embellished with sashiko embroidery.

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If you haven’t heard of Purl Soho,  you’re gonna love me for this tidbit. It is a little New York shop (with an awesome online presence as well) that celebrates the lovely art of needle-crafting. The carry a beautiful array of yarns, quilting fabrics, kits and supplies. Sometimes I browse their site just to ooh and aah over their beautiful photos and luscious colors. I’ve purchased items from them before and have never been disappointed. However, this is the first time I’ve tried one of their sewing patterns.

I also purchased Purl Soho’s handkerchief linen in the color Hippo. Sewing with this fabric was splendid, and they have so many rich colors from which to choose. And the pattern is free to download! 

For added detail, I embroidered a sashiko pattern onto the front of the apron. It was my first attempt at sashiko, so my stitches aren’t perfect. Nonetheless, it is a fun technique that I plan to keep practicing. And it’s true that sashiko is a bit addictive.

tips for sewing this pattern

Let me first say this. I love the finished project, the construction and movement of the Cross Back Apron. But I found the instructions a bit confusing at times, and I would definitely suggest this is not an easy pattern for the beginner sewist. However, the following tips will make the project easier:

• If you are not familiar with french seams, you should gain an understanding of them before starting.
• If using linen, mark the cut pattern pieces (A, B, C, etc.) with a chalk pencil on the right (top) side. This will make following the pattern much easier.

Following these suggestions will make your sewing easier, and the finished project is definitely worth it. I just love this free-spirited apron!

The biggest compliment is a little share – pin the photo below!