Steps 1 - 5

• How to make your own retro-print apron
• Steps 1 - 5
• Steps 6 - 8
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Step 1) From the main patterned fabric cut one 68cm by 60cm rectangle for the main apron piece, and one 15cm by 165cm strip for the tie (you will probably need to join pieces to make up the length). For the pocket, cut a 25cm by 22cm rectangle in plain contrast fabric.

Step 2) On the pocket piece, turn 1cm of fabric under along the two long sides and one short side and press. Along the remaining short edge turn under 1cm then 3cm and top stitch to hem.

Step 3) Using the picture as a guide, use tailor's chalk to draw out the words ‘tea time' centrally on the front of the pocket. Thread an embroidery needle with a length of yarn and work the letters using chain stitch, or any preferred embroidery stitch. Place a damp cloth over the pocket and press.

Step 4) On the main fabric piece, turn under 1cm then 3cm along the two short edges and slip stitch hems. Then turn under along the bottom by 2.5cm then 5cm and slip stitch another hem. Press all hemmed edges.

Step 5) To make three darts along the top edge of the apron piece, measure 10cm down from the centre of the top raw edge and mark with tailor's chalk or a pin. Repeat to mark two more points equally spaced either side of the centre point. Right sides facing, bring the fabric together along the raw edge to create a 1cm dart that tapers down to the central marked point. Tack the stitching line. Repeat to tack the remaining darts. Machine stitch each dart in place, remove tacking and press the darts to one side on the reverse. Baste along the top of each dart within the seam line to hold in place (see illustration).

Illustrations, Michael A. Hill

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