Sunny Skies apron

Today it's actually dark and gloomy with chill fall temps and threatening storm clouds.  I've made the best of a few spots in my house that have almost enough light on such a dark day.  How ironic to be photographing an apron that exudes sunshine.  That particular shade of yellow, paired with turquoise blue and whispy florals - I couldn't help but dub this one "Sunny Skies."

Here's my apron!  I followed the Teacup Apron pattern from Sew Liberated by Meg Elwee.  Although I really want to try the Emmeline apron that so many of you recommended, I practically fell into making this one again, what with the pattern pieces were already cut out.



Plus, I have a hunch my friend will love the halter style.  Can't wait to see it on her!

 

One of the things I appreciate about this pattern is that it's not lined (saves fabric), but the seems are so tidy with most of them cleanly encased.  The two exposed seems I finished with an overcast stitch, using that special foot.  In the pattern, the empire waist is finished with grommets and tiny, corset-style ties at back.  Like last time, I altered the empire waist tie to simplify the pattern, while keeping the tie fabric doubled so that the ties are pretty from both sides as they fall at the back.



This time, I didn't do the tea cup applique, but I did use some chevron ribbon that I had bought earlier this year from Fresh Modern Fabric to trim the pocket.  I'd never have bothered to go to the store just for trim, so I'm glad I had some options on hand.   I think it turned out nicely!

Well, that's another gift ready to give!  I'm not quite sure what I'll sew up next... 

This Saturday, I did yard work from morning til 4 pm.  My back and arms got a work out!  Here's a glimpse of some of my hedge work. Our house is practically surrounded by these azalea bushes that grow monstrously every year, as if straining to block off our windows.  They were overdue for hedging, plus I needed to trim them away from the house to clear for painting.  I think I'm halfway done, so next weekend I'll bravely set out again.  For now, a week's retreat indoors with plenty of time behind the sewing machine is just what I need to muster my strength.

Happy Monday!

::Fabric Notes::
Apron bodice and waistband:  Chicopee Paisley in lime and Chicopee Bleeding Heart, which I requested and received from Freespirit.
Apron skirt: Madrona Road Wild Carrot in straw, which I requested and received from Pink Chalk Fabrics.
Pocket trim:  Chevron twill tape, purchased from Fresh Modern Fabric.