Sundress to apron refashion.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at 11:41PM After I made the apron for the auction, I was pretty gung-ho to make one for my very own. Until I faced my carefully curated stash, that is. Because then I plain out froze. Deciding which fabric combos to cut into may take some time--I've hoarded some of these prints for years and I love them. And, yes, I do mean love/love, not just like/love. So until I decide, I thought I'd do a quickie upcycled version.
I found a decent looking sundress at the thrift store for only $4 (my favorite thrift store has a 50% off sale fairly regularly, which is when I try to load up on refashioning materials). The cut and size of the dress fit me well enough but I don't think it's essential considering how much is eventually cut off. And as I didn't even like/love the hibiscus print, it was the perfect piece to experiment with.
I cut off the straps and the side seams to create a front panel...
...then straightened up the sides into an A-line shape. I left the bodice top at the full width because I knew I wanted to ruffle it.
Next, I cut up some cotton lining remnants from my stash for the sashing/ties. Unfortunately, I didn't have long enough pieces so some patch-work was necessary (which made the entire project more fiddly than I expected)...
The construction and sewing process was completely done on the fly. I wouldn't call it terribly efficient--working from a pattern turned out to be easier. But this was definitely faster.
The end result? A definite meh. It's just okay. I don't love it but do think some cute pockets would really help, so on they will go. Someday. The biggest hassle was the side sashing done without the benefit of a pattern. Should I attempt this again, I'll just do a simple, continuous, sash at the waist and ties that attach to the top.
But all in all, it is still a lot prettier than the other aprons currently hanging in the pantry. Those were accumulated mostly by way of freebie promos, so you can imagine. And I also keep reminding myself that it'll be covered in marinara sauce or brownie batter splatters within 24 hours.
I was happy to have a reason to test out my new tripod. I will work on lighting next, promise. Leo was absolutely fascinated with the auto shoot process. And he couldn't resist sneaking in for a little smooch. My goodness, does he ever have my heart in such a special way. Leo is my love bug.
Reader Comments (7)
Oh, I really like that apron, it reminds me of a vintage housewife look :) And, I love the little smooch you captured...too sweet!
-Mags
Well! I happen to think your apron is just darling on you! And the pink hibiscus print works great as an apron! Very cheerful.
We were out at the Goodwill bins the other day looking for sweaters to felt and it occurred to me that the bins and thrift stores are a great resource for fabric stashes! Bravo you! YOU are way, way ahead of me!
I need to head to the thrift store! That fabric is great.
-Sascha
Hey Sandra! Love you blog. Kristin gave me the address. I used to make your cookie cake bars and I gave you a shout-out on my own blog!!
Again, love it!
Steph
This is great! Apron crafting & spring-cleaning seem to be going together right about now.
I'm loving your cute blog! This apron is awesome.
Thanks for stopping by my blog and I'm so glad you can use the tutorial for the bike basket!
pretty apron, love it! please look at my blog :) http://bellacraftsireland.blogspot.com/