Trial and Error Apron

I've seen some pictures lately of some really cute aprons (not that I'd say I'm really the apron type but whatever). Unfortunately, I couldn't find a good free pattern for an apron, though I hate patterns any way so maybe it's for the best. I decided to wing it. I'll explain my process, though since it was a lot of winging it I'm not sure it'll be too helpful for anyone to follow.

First, I picked out some scrap fabric that I had. I then went to my closet and found a skirt and tank top. I picked a skirt that I liked the shape of and a tank top that was more form fitting. I then laid the skirt down on the denim fabric and traced around the skirt with a fabric pencil. I did the same with the t-shirt though I only traced the sides and bottom. I then cut out both pieces following the pencil marks. For the top of the shirt that I hadn't traced I just cut straight across. 

What I wish I had though of then: fold the skirt in half, and the shirt in half and fold your fabric in half, then trace. This would have allowed for more symmetrical pieces.

I then did a half inch hem line along all sides of my skirt. And a 1/4 inch around my top. (I didn't do a 1/2 inch because I was afraid it would take too much fabric. I then sewed the bottom of my top and the top of my skirt together. In all my precise ways I held the skirt and top up to myself to determine where they needed to connect.

I then purchased some satin blanket binding and some single fold bias tape from Jo-Ann's for the sash and embellishment. Really you can make your own out of fabric but I don't have the patience for tedious tasks.

You can't tell from this picture but I put black bias tape on both sides of the shirt.I then took the black blanket binding and attached it to the upper part of my top. I pinned the binding in between my top and bottom and sewed it to the sides. Make sure you use enough binding. Once again in all my precision I wrapped the binding around my waist to see how much I would need. Sew the ends of your binding so they do not fray.

Then I took the single fold bias tape and attached it to the sides of the top. I made sure there was enough tape so I could pull the apron over my head. After I completed this task I realized that my top was a little loose in the chest area. so I folded the top part in at the sides and sewed it in place. (Remember it's all trial and error here). Next time I would put my neck straps in a little farther initially.

I then took a square ruler and cut out a piece of fabric for a pocket. I did a hem of about 1/2 inch on three sides and 1 inch on the top. I then put the apron on to decide where I would want the pocket. I pinned it in place and then sewed it to the skirt on three sides.

And a few hours later, there you have it. My first, trial by error apron with no pattern. : ) I think it will serve it's purpose.