Lucky Dip

I started thinking about making this apron way back at the beginning of May. It's been through quite a few changes since then and I took a long time getting to this version. But it's finally finished and I am happy!

I made it for the May/June Tie-One-On challenge which was to make an apron with a pocket. I had visions of a folk art inspired apron with bird shaped pockets amidst 70's style foliage and flowers, in bright colours on a white ground. But I found that the simple silhouette shapes worked better in a printed fabric and to be perfectly honest, my applique skills weren't quite up to the job, so my design changed drastically.  I'm still practicing the techniques I learned from the 'invisible machine applique' book but I feel I'm really getting there now, and I've finally found a way around the point dilemma. Unfortunately I reached it after I did the bird's beak, hmmmmm.

I used the reversible apron pattern from Lotta Jansdotter's book which is a really modern, stylish shape. It looked better on David's sister's tall, elegant form than my full-on curvy figure though, so she kindly agreed to model it for me (and what a beautiful job she did- thank you Paula!).
It was a good pattern to work from but I did get a little lost on the pleats where the straps attach. I'm no stranger to dressmaking but I couldn't work out how to make two pleats from three notches? More diagrams/detailed instructions would be good. I love that there's still lots to learn though, I found out how to turn something narrow but long the right way out from the book, which I've struggled with for years.

Now, as you may be aware I made some birdy loveliness for myself along the way, and I also made myself an apron in February. So I don't need this one, love it yes, but don't actually need it!
But maybe one of you fellow bloggers would like to have it? I'd like to give it away to say thank you for your supportive, inspiring presence. And also because I'm starting to feel a little self-satisfying by just posting things for you to ooh and ah over every week. It's definitely time for a give-away!
So, if you would like this pinny, leave a comment between now and next Thursday's post and I'll get Annie or Eliza to draw a name out of a hat.

Until next Thursday, happy crafting!

Comments

[Thimbleanna]

Oh My! That's a beautiful apron! I love the print that the birds are made from. And what is your secret for the points? I have a terrible time with points -- I just muddle on through them!

[sarah]

I'm so glad you finally got your birdy apron done! I've been waiting to see it! And the think about Lotta's book, it's fabulous, but I think their quality control was lacking. I found mistakes on all the patterns I tried to use. So... you just have to improvise a bit!

[Vanessa V]

Oh, it is lovely! It looks fantastic on your sister in law. Ooo, wonderful! Drop me in a hat too. Although, I hardly deserve another gift. As, I am still swooning! xoxoxoxo

[paper-and-string]

now the problem is that I am short and round not tall and slim so your gorgeous apron would look not so good on me!! Do aprons and silly tall heels that hurt your toes go together???
xxx

[Ali]

I can't believe you are parting with it! It's so gorgeous. And I agree with Sarah's comments about LJ's patterns needing a bit of tweaking.

[Sonya]

That is an amazing apron - both, but especially the bird one - oh pockets. Love them.

[Nicole]

What a lovely apron! The birds look great.

[Sarah]

I was gonna comment anyway because that's so dang cute. I love those bird pockets!

[Vanessa V]

Oh please bring your girls to my place, so they can see their treasures on screen! xxxooo

[Lissy]

I have just discovered your blog and WOW what an apron...I seem to be into birds at the moment so it caught my eye straight away! Anyway hello from Australia!

[Betsy]

I love it! You are getting really good at the applique, I am impressed. Also, I do agree with above comments about Lotta's patterns--I found a mistake in the one I used.

[Dees]

Wow this aprin is awsome!!!And I envy your waistline missy!
xoxo

[amanda button]

(gasp!) The birds are WONDERFUL! What a terribly clever idea...it's really lovely!

[French Knots]

The birdy apron is lovely, the pattern is perfect and the clean,simple design really works

[CrafteaMe]

I love the pockets and the shape of the apron - the colours are great too!

[julie (jane's apron)]

really, really like the bird pocket apron...so pretty and so practical

[ambika]

That apron is gorgeous. I love it and despair of ever being able to make something like that.

[bigbucketgirl]

The apron is gorgeous. the colours are so striking. Well Done you.

[Mirre]

I love the birds on this apron... wonderful!