Kids Pinafore Apron Tutorial

 The fabric for this apron came from thrifted curtains, and a cot sheet.  I drafted the pattern myself, getting a rough size by using a singlet of the kids.  Front and back is the same, it can be a loose fit because they will be wearing it over their clothes.

Fold your fabrics in half, and lay one on top of the other.  Make sure the picture on your printed fabric is in a good spot, you don't want a headless kangaroo centre front!

 Once you have cut your apron out, look at the scraps to see if there is a picture you would like to use for the pocket.  I chose the rabbits.  Cut out the picture in a square, fold and press the edges in.

 Stitch along the top of the pocket.

 Position pocket, it doesn't have to be in the middle, and stitch in place.

 Pin lining to apron, right sides together.  Stitch, leaving the shoulder seams open.

 Clip curves.  Don't forget to leave tiny little triangles on the carpet to send your husband/partner/housemates crazy.

 Turn right way out.

 Poke back shoulder strap into front shoulder strap and pin.

 Stitch, making sure you are getting the lining as well.  Iron the apron.

 Make a buttonhole on one side of the back.

 Stitch a button on the other side.

Get a handsome model and Voila!  Easy.

Bloomers for Meanie*

I have been enjoying myself sewing derby shorts for the girls, each girl asks for something different, a little reflection of themselves.  Meanie* (not her real name) asked for ruffles, so ruffles she got.  The weight and stretch of the fabric meant that I had to make the ruffles first (which is actually pleated), then attach them to the shorts' legs.

 

I cut strips of fabric, then used a kebab stick to fold the fabric into pleats as I basted them.

 I attached two rows on the legs, and then I removed the original basting so that the legs still had maximum stretch.

 Then I added little bows because I thought it would look cute!

These are for roller derby, but they would be gorgeous on a little girl for summer, and the self made pleated trim could be used for anything!