Project Reflection:

This sewing project was definitely a challenge because the machines are so temperamental! That being said, they were relatively easy to understand and when they stopped working I took the time to figure out how to fix them. For example, I had to replace the bobbin when it ran out. In order to figure out how to do this I watched youtube videos and looked at the instruction manual the ODEK has. Also, at one point during my stitching process, the foot detached and I had Kathrine help me fix it (Thanks Kathrine!). Overall, I now have a lot more confidence working with sewing machines and fabric.

Projrect Concept:

I aimed to design a comfortable and stylish apron customized for my measurements. I decided to make my apron with a different cut and measurements than the ones recommended. This was because I wanted a more aesthetic shape, and I wanted it to fit me perfectly. My inspiration for the apron cut came from this seekpng.com image shown in figure 1.  I decide to utilize the folded and sew part of my fabric for the top of my apron because I thought it would add another cool design element. I also opted for a slightly shorter length for my apron, because it is more comfortable and allows you to walk more easily.

Figure 1. Inspiration Design for Apron

PRoject Process:

I began the process by measuring myself using a ruler (not the best tool for the job, but it worked). Next, a transferred these measurements onto the fabric. I first made markings for the width I wanted the apron to be, and then a second marking 1 ½ inches away from the original marking for seem allowance. To make sure I had the top width I wanted I held the fabric up in the mirror while pinching the marked width. Once I was happy with the width, I drew my desired shape for the arc I wanted for the torso section of the apron. Next, I cut one side of the apron out with a rotary cutter and then folded to apron in half to mirror the cut on the other side. With my shape entirely cut I next pined all the sides folding the fabric twice and pining parallel to the fabric as shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2. Pinning Technique Utilized

After pinning everything I sewed all the sides. Next, I measured the length I wanted for the neck strap by holding the apron up in the mirror to determine the length I needed based on the height I wanted the apron to fall. Finally, I cut the straps and sewed the neck and waist straps using a box stitch. My final product is pictured below in Figure 3.

Figure 3. Front, Side, Back, and Flat Views of the Final Product

Project Challenges:

My biggest challenge with this project was precision. I struggled with using my fine motor skills. At the beginning of this assignment, I made a lot of crooked stitching and even went off the fabric multiple times. This was mainly due to underestimating the speed of the sewing machine. These mistakes were frustrating. I ended up deciding to completely redo one side of my apron by using a seem ripper to undo the stitching. This side had a lot of flaws due to my uneasiness and uncomfortability with the machine. I redid my first side seam because I wanted to hold myself to a high standard on this first project. After that, the rest of my sewing went relatively smoothly. If I could redo this project I would make sure to iron my material before the sewing process. This would make it easier to sew and my sewing would definitely have come out better if I had ironed it. Also, I realized that while sewing the seams, the sides of the apron became slightly unsymmetrical. I should have paid closer attention when sewing the sides to ensure symmetry. During future sewing, I will take more care when folding the sides to ensure it is even at all points. Although my sewing isn’t perfect, I definitely improved and am proud my the final product because I ensured that my sewing looked clean and polished.

Project Cost Estimate:

Cost estimate: 

• Canvas fabric: $9.98 for 2 yards (fabricwholesaledirect.com)
• Thread: about  $0.25 (Amazon)
• Cotton straps: about $1.50 for 1 yard (Amazon)
• Labor – about 6 hours * $16.82 = 100.92

Total = $112.65