I have been a sucker for full aprons since way back when I was still hoarding Martha Stewart Living magazines and collecting ripped out pages in an inspiration binder. When I was asked to sew something from Sanae Ishida’s new book, Sewing Happiness , it was no surprise to me that I gravitated right to this cross-back apron.
Reminiscent of the Martha inspired aprons that I filed away years ago, I love it’s simple, yet gorgeously practical aesthetic.
Which pretty well describes most of the projects in the book.
They are not without details, but they are delicate and understated….Simply beautiful!
In the beginning of the book, Sanae not only introduces you to her projects through pretty pictures, but she also weaves in a fascintaing story about how sewing healed her life. I cracked open her book, expecting to take just a few minutes to peruse the project list, but found myself many more minutes later captivated by the beautiful complexity of her story.
I admit, I don’t often read the introductions in DIY books, but I was glad I took the time read this one. Her book reads almost like a memoir and sewing book rolled into one; and it is so elegantly, and authentically done.
She talks about the concept of wabi sabi, which is a Japanese term for finding beauty in imperfection. I love that. Sometimes it’s the imperfections that give a project that human, personal spark that make it more meaningful. Her book is definitely more than just a book full of tutorials. It’s an experience. You feel as if you are taking that healing sewing journey right along with her.
The fabric I used is this striped linen/cotton blend from Miss Matatabi. It’s excellent quality and lightweight, but still sturdy enough to hold up to multiple washings, scrunchings, hand wipings, etc.  It’s hard to see in pictures, but it has a lovely, understated shimmer and sheen to it. I love that it adds a bit of day time glam to this otherwise simple apron. 😉
To break in my new apron, I made some of my favorite bread.
It’s my favorite, because a. it tastes good, but also because it’s pretty fool-proof to make; which is almost just as important. 😉
You know what else is my favorite?
That I get to give away a copy of Sewing Happiness + $45 in coveted Miss Matatabi fabric to one lucky reader!!!Â
Good right?
Simply enter in the rafflecopter below. You must be a U.S. resident to enter. (So sorry international friends!)
GOOD LUCK!
Disclaimer: This book and fabric was gifted to me in exchange for this review. All opinions and content are honestly and genuinely my own! I feel honored to be able to be apart of Sanae’s tour to spread the word about her book and I always love me some fabric from Miss Matatabi. That needs no explanation. 😉 The winner is going to be one lucky sewist!
I’ve never seen this style of apron before, without ties. I quite like it!!
Isn’t it neat? It’s quite comfortable too.
aw so pretty, delia! i love these photos, and i agree about Sanae’s book. just beautifully written and photographed.
I love this apron and your photos! Just gorgeous!
Thank you Anne! <3
I love your photos! Gorgeous! As are you!
I like the fabric you used for the apron… and what an interesting apron design!
Aw thanks Charity! I know. I love it from a practical stand point especially. There are no ties to fuss with and it’s easy to fold and put in a drawer when not in use. And the way the shoulder straps lay, give great protective coverage. I can’t say enough good things!
Beautiful but very functional
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!! because I am “big boned” (read as full breasted) I have a hard time using an apron that will fully cover all of me. This will solve that problem quite nicely. So Grateful
Don’t thank me. Thank Sanae! 😉 She really did design a great apron, didn’t she?
This is such a lovely book & heart-warming story! I need an apron like this for work, so will be adding it to my summer seeing list.
It really is. Happy sewing! 😉
I am plus-size. In the book does the author include any instructions for making a larger size apron? These Japanese aprons are sometimes considered one size but that’s only true to a point. Thank you.
Great question Beth. She lists sizing for S, M, L. I sewed up the size small and it’s still roomy. I think the fit is very forgiving for a broad range of sizes. I don’t see any plus size instructions but, I think that you could easily size this apron up by winging it. I would safety pin the straps in place before adding the casing, to get correct placement before sewing, but other than that, I think it would be easy. I hope that helps?
I love this apron and the fabric too. While I wait for my book to arrive, can you tell me how many yards the apron took?
Sure! You need 2 yards for all adult sizes. I hope that helps! <3
Thanks! I was a fool and only ordered 1.5 m (I had to have that same gorgeous striped linen), but I’ll make it work just the same. ? You are so darling in your apron – I can’t wait to make mine!
Can I obtain the pattern only for this apron?
You have to buy the book for this pattern, but my friend Adrianna from Hey June Patterns just came out with a similar free pattern that is really pretty.