Tracy from the Pink Chalk Fabrics Team reviews The Blue Plate Special apron pattern by The Paisley Pincushion. The pattern includes full sized tissue pattern sheets for 5 sizes — Child, Ladies Small, Medium, Large and X-Large (up to bust size 56″).
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When the Cosmo Cricket “Early Bird Special” fabric arrived, sewing an apron from it was the first thing that came to mind.
I wanted a pattern with a simple front and no pockets that would feature the kitchen-related quotes and cute, cute drawings. It was great to find one that also had some contrast areas–good for featuring one of the several complementary fabrics.
The Blue Plate Special from The Paisley Pincushion fit the bill on both counts.
The lace shown on the pattern envelope is cute, but I didn’t want to distract from the retro fabric, and the pattern works well without it.
The apron is simple to sew. The cutting and sewing directions are clear and easy to follow, and the project takes only a couple of hours start to finish. The author gives clear instructions and lots of recommendations, and the illustrations are clear.
An important thing to note: the fabric measurements given on the envelope don’t make it clear that you need the same amount of the contrasting fabric. The double fabric gives the apron a very nice weight. For example, the Medium pattern required 1 & 1/8 yard of each of the two fabrics I used.
I couldn’t find just the right buttons for this project, so I covered some. Hadn’t done that for years, and wow, is it ever easier than it used to be! No tools were required, and because it was done without tools, I could manipulate the fabric to center the motifs just as I desired.
Another fun apron fabric is Metro Café by Monaluna Blenders in Red, with the contrast sewn from Metro Café by Monaluna Dots in Licorice. A fun and more funky look! Also sewn without a lace trim.
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Thank you for the fantastic review Tracy! All of us here tried the aprons on (of course we did!). The first apron on top is a size Ladies Medium and the second is a size Ladies Small. The Medium fit me and I wear a size 12 in ready to wear. The bust measurement range stated on the pattern was accurate.
Patterns by The Paisley Pincushion
Early Bird by Cosmo Cricket (I apologize in advance for the low stock on this collection, I was late in getting Tracy’s review up)
What a great apron!
I always wear aprons when I cook and bake, and this looks like it has good coverage. I’m messy. Kathie L in Allentown
I do love those buttons!
Definitely a cute pattern…I like the pleats/darts/tucks (not sure what you call those thingies)!
those are completely adorable!
Love Love the blenders! Too cute!
nsue21702 at gmail dot com
The Early Bird special fabric is perfect for the pattern and I enjoyed the pattern review.
I’ve been looking for a good apron pattern… this one is so cute!
I love the love the “early bird special” fabric. Must make an apron out of this. Thanks for the review and the fabric ideas. I think I would like the double fabric weight as well. I use my aprons for drying my hands – A LOT! Good job!
Thanks for the review — this cute apron looks like it would do it’s job and look pretty!
I just love the fold-over bib! I think that’s what makes this apron for me. It’s just such a sweet little detail that adds all the charm in the world! Hand covered buttons are the best- I am completely addicted to making them. Actually I feel strange watching T.V. without a pile of buttons in my lap!
Looks like it’s adjustable around the neck? Two buttons – - one functional and one not? Cute cute pattern. And it’s not too heavy?
Katie: the buttons are fixed but you could certainly make it adjustable. It has a roomy feel when you put it over your head so you don’t have to unbutton to get it on.
Well done, they look terrific!
I have gathered several apron patterns but I will NEED to add this one to my collection too! Thanks for the great review.
I like this apron – the wider shouler straps are more appealing to me. And the cute little deco on the bib is a plus. I like the original pattern, but would use a small ruffle instead of the lace. Thank you for the review.
Those aprons are marvelous, as the fabrics, you always find the perfect combination between the fabric, the style, the color and the project, it´s amazing! Thanks!
Hi Kathy;
As always, thanks for great inspiration made up samples. Love that you orgalize your store by color and theme. Really helpful.
What a lovely apron pattern – it’s made me realise I really do NEED an apron. I love the examples shown and may just have to get stitching!
Oh I love that pattern and that fabric. I have put them on my wishlist for my husband to see.
darling apron and fabric … i’ve used their patterns before and they really are clear and easy to follow …
Add a back panel to this and it could be a cute summer dress!
What a super cute apron. I love the fabric you have used
Aiiiii! I’m dieing from the cuteness!
I love this apron! Great fabric!
This design is so gorgeous it’s nearly too good to wear in the kitchen – add a Tshirt, white petticoat some cowboy boots and you’ve got a great outfit!
Very well measurement you have given. I think for stitching aprons, measurement should be appropriate! The patterns that you have showcased is appreciable, I must say!
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