Simple apron can be used for many jobs

Hi Julia: I am hoping you can help me. I am looking for a pattern for a cobbler apron that is a large size. I have seen the one by Simplicity, but it is too small. I am a large woman, and I need a 4X or 5X. I have 3X readymade aprons, and they are wearing out. I have purchased 4X from various companies, but they run very small. I thought I would make some, but no can do without a pattern. If you know where I can get a pattern or where I can purchase one, please let me know. I really appreciate it very much. Andrea D. Hi Andrea: I did a lot of searching and didn’t find much, so I understand the problem you’re having. I did, however, come across one pattern for an apron that I think might work for you. It’s not quite a traditional cobbler apron, but it’s close. The pattern is called Artisan Apron, and you can find it on Etsy in Janet Clare’s shop. Go to www.etsy.com/shop/ JanetClare and search for “Artisan Apron Pattern.”

This apron gives you full coverage in the front and back like a cobbler apron, but there are no ties on the side, which is nice. And it has the handy pockets in the front like a cobbler apron. It comes in sizes small to 4X, and the curved seams and crossover shape of the back pieces allow the apron to flare out, so it can expand to fit even larger sizes. And it’s super cute!

The pattern comes with a full-size paper pattern and a color leaflet with detailed instructions and photos. The designer suggests using a linen or cotton fabric. It looks straightforward and simple to make. Good luck, and let us know how it turns out!

Dear Readers: I got another great suggestion for what to do with leftover wedding fabric. Betty W. from Suffolk, Va., had a replica of her wedding dress made for her beloved Toni doll. She sent in pictures of her doll in the dress and photos from her wedding day. I wish you all could see it — the doll’s dress is a perfect copy of Betty’s beautiful wedding dress. Betty writes: “One of my favorite dolls in the late ’40s/early ’50s was my Toni doll, who was dressed in a wedding gown. I loved that doll! My mother eventually gave all my dolls away, so in my 50s, I purchased a Toni doll just like mine at an antique store. I got the idea of trying to dress her like a bride, so I contacted a lady who made doll clothes and sent her a picture of me as a bride, along with the train from my wedding gown. She made the most fantastic bridal gown and veil for my Toni doll, which looked very much like my own wedding gown and veil. I cherish my ‘Toni bride doll.’”

Thanks for sharing your sweet story, Betty!