Sundress to apron refashion.
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.