It’s not too late to sow sweet peas - so easy to It’s not too late to sow sweet peas - so easy to grow and blissfully fragrant in the summer months. 
They were my mum’s favourite flower, so growing them now feels like a precious connection. Especially when I pick some and arrange them in her beautiful old blue and gold jug just as she used to do with the sweet peas my dad grew for her every year.
There are some really handy tips for growing success from founder of The Real Flower Company Rosebie Morton over on the blog (link in bio). Rosebie has a whole farm dedicated to sweet peas near Chichester so she knows a thing or two about the subject!
Main thing I’ve picked up from her is to allow lots of depth for root growth at this stage and to make my own supportive wigwams from twiggy branches when the plants are really starting to go for it and need a bit of direction. This photo is making me yearn slightly.
I love this image of my friend Jo - we were trying I love this image of my friend Jo - we were trying out tiny living for a feature I was writing - this was taken on our way to indulge in a spot of forest bathing. To be totally honest, we were both a little sceptical beforehand. But we were only saying the other day how taken aback we both were by the amazing effect it had. I’m working on some new ideas around the subject - will keep you posted. X
I’m currently working on a redesign of the whole I’m currently working on a redesign of the whole site - which has meant lots of photo editing and reorganising so much content. What’s been lovely (despite the claw hand from so much keyboard work!) is revisiting work and becoming engrossed all over again. I thought I’d share a few of the things I’ve been (re) loving - with links in the bio to the old site for now, but not for long…! X
This  image is from a feature about preserving garden roses. I’m going to give this a really good go this year, now I have a better idea what I’m doing. I know there’s nothing quite like a fragrant fresh rose in Summer but there’s a fragile beauty to dried and preserved flowers that I also love, don’t you?
Snowdrops 🌱🤍 . . . . . . #capturequiet #ins Snowdrops 🌱🤍 
.
.
.
.
.
.
#capturequiet #instabritain #natureandnourish #thewildernesstonic #cornersofmyworld
Signed copies of Bex Partridge’s new book Flower Signed copies of Bex Partridge’s new book Flowers Forever to be won! My bio has the link to enter as well as to get a peek inside. Beautifully photographed by Laura Edwards, I really enjoyed escaping into the pages and making plans for my own garden - hope you do too! X
To the Moon and Back Hares KNITTING PATTERN by Cla To the Moon and Back Hares KNITTING PATTERN by Claire Garland aka @dotpebbles_knits has to be the perfect post Christmas craft project 😊 
If you fancy getting your needles out to make this adorable pair, the link to buy Claire’s pattern is in my bio. Happy knitting! X
Thank you so much to Sarah @floribundaroseflorists Thank you so much to Sarah @floribundaroseflorists for a wonderful wreath making workshop yesterday. Such a special and creative space to spend time. I loved making my wreath - I went for a mixture of greenery arranged quite randomly with red waxed fresh apples, dried hydrangea, dried flowers, poppy and nigella seed heads and a winter white velvet bow. 
There were so many wonderful ingredients to choose from we were really spoiled for choice. 
Sarah’s new studio is such a beautiful, creative space. Think fragrant botanical candles flickering everywhere, mulled wine and apple juice simmering on the stove and containers full of fragrant festive greenery, waxed fruit, dried flowers and oranges, pine cones, lichen covered branches and even tiny gold wax-dipped fresh crab apples. 
Thank you for being so patient with my lengthy ribbon choice deliberations Sarah - and for bagging up a second choice option (dusky pink) to take home! X.  #wreathmaking #wreath #wreathsofinstagram #sustainablewreaths #wreathdecor #christmaswreath #velvetribbon #christmasdecor #festiveflowers
I’ve loved Olga Prinku’s work for ages now - s I’ve loved Olga Prinku’s work for ages now - she came up with the genius idea of embroidering on tulle using nature as her thread - and the results are sublime - like this Autumn colours beauty from her latest book.
I’m delighted that Olga is offering a fantastic prize bundle to my readers. For a chance to win one of her beautiful new dried flower embroidery kits (in collaboration with @driedandfloral ) as well as a signed copy of her wonderful new book(published by @quadrillebooks , pop over to my blog (link in my bio). It’s easy to enter so why don’t you give yourself a chance of winning this very lovely prize? Good luck! 
#driedflowers #driedflowerembroidery #olgaprinku #embroideryhoop #flowerembroidery #competitiontime #signedbooks #embroideryart #flowersontulle #autumn #autumncolours #hoopart #allthingsbotanical #instacraft
This beautiful image is by Laura Pashby @circleofp This beautiful image is by Laura Pashby @circleofpines and is from her beautiful new book Little Stories of Your Life. 
It’s packed with inspiration and practical ideas to help you become a visual story teller. Because, as Laura says, it’s the little moments that make up the fabric of all of our lives - and those moments are worth capturing and sharing with others.
We have three signed copies of the book to give away - just click the link in my bio to find out more. There’s a peek inside and a lovely film by @xantheb to enjoy too! X 
#littlemoments #littlestoriesbook #alifeofwords #lostinwords #competition #booksarelife #mindfulphotography #bookstagram #booksmakemehappy #booksconnectus #igreads #whatareyoureading #signedbooks
Thanks to Lisa from @inthemaking_aprons who has sh Thanks to Lisa from @inthemaking_aprons who has shared her wonderfully creative ideas for visibly mending well-loved clothing in need of repair and a little TLC.
She had me at ‘sometimes I like to use giant sequins…’ 
Hope you like Lisa’s ideas as much as I do. The link to head over to my blog and get all her step by steps is in my bio x
  • LIFESTYLE
  • MEET
  • MAKE
    • KNITTING
    • CROCHET
    • Sewing
    • FABRIC CRAFT
    • FELTING
    • Craft
    • Christmas craft
    • VIDEO TUTORIALS
    • Recipes
  • FLOWERS
    • FLOWERS
    • Dried flowers
    • GARDENING
    • WREATH MAKING
  • Home
  • About
  • Features
  • Shop
  • Directory
  • Contact
  • Join

From Britain with Love

Sustainably Made in Britain

  • Home
  • About
  • Features
  • Shop
  • Directory
    • Makers
    • Workshops
  • Contact
  • Join

MAKE, Sewing · May 26, 2023

How to make an apron dress

How to make an apron dress with cross back with Dolly sewing workshops.

Before we start, here are the links to the pattern and sewing kit/class that I did…

The Apron paper pattern by Dolly

The Apron dress class (which is the class I did) 11am to 5pm Wednesdays in Lewes

apron dress sewing kit and workshop

How I made mine…

I have to be honest. Sewing and sewing machines have been a persistent source of rage for me over the years. I decided decades ago that whilst knitting somehow came together for me, the dark art of sewing was best left alone. I’d spent many anguished hours sat at my mum’s reliable sewing machine and would, without fail, start creating seams with an underbelly of tangled spider’s legs and knots. Every. Single. Time. I am not exaggerating.

Liberty skirt disaster

I’d decided to think positively and splashed out on the most beautiful Liberty lawn back in the 90s, intending to create a simple summer skirt. How hard could it be? It was a beginner’s level pattern after all. I was several enthusiastic, decisive cuts into the fabric before I realised I’d got the folds – and therefore the pattern – all wrong. And there was no saving – or wearing – it. My problem, I’ve decided, is that I am a perfectionist and attention-to-minute-detail freak, but am trapped in the body of a slap dash person who rushes at things and wants instant results. The Liberty skirt disaster was the moment when I decided to put (throw) down my pinking shears, bobbins and other anger-inducing paraphernalia.

How to make an apron dress sewing workshop

So, when I was asked to join Diana Uprichard of Dolly at her popular Make an Apron Dress sewing workshop in Lewes, my first reaction was to leave well alone. But I do love a cross back apron dress. And Diana’s collection of clothing and patterns are right up my street.

diana uprichard dolly sustainable fashion sewing workshops patternsdiana uprichard dolly sustainable fashion

So I decided to take a leap of faith and said I’d love to join the workshop – as long as Diana was happy for me to be included despite my sewing track record. I really needn’t have worried.

diana uprichard Dolly clothing and sewing workshops and patterns
Diana welcomes us to her workshop

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

As soon as I arrived at Diana’s first floor studio in a pretty old building right in the centre of Lewes I knew I’d be in safe, understanding hands. There were two of us signed up for the workshop, so there was plenty of time to ask questions and to get help as and when we needed it.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will lastlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last

I’d imagined rows of high speed seamstresses zipping up and down perfectly symmetrical seams, whilst I sat unpicking and swearing by myself. Diana keeps her beginner’s workshops small for this reason. They are all about giving fledgling sewers the confidence to have a go at making their own clothes. I do love the idea of being able to do this.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will lastlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

Step one: cutting out

First step was to start cutting out. I now have a good idea why I had my previous disasters and mishaps with this. You can’t rush at it like I’m inclined to do. Diana told me that the cutting-out stage needs time and thought – and is really important to get right. She will sometimes take one day to cut something out and not even consider sewing it until the next. Diana explained how she takes time to fold and think, double checking the pattern placement as she goes.

My instincts at this stage are to gallop through to the sewing bit – when you really start to see results. We were taking it slowly and carefully, however, which I knew was sensible. But, if I’m really honest, I did have to fight a slight sense that we could speed up and whip through a bit faster. I was first to finish cutting out. Then it turned out that I’d cut slashes into the lining because there were marks on the pattern that I didn’t understand, but decided to cut anyway. I hadn’t taken the time to ask if I should. Luckily the slashes would be hidden within the underside of the lining but it was clear proof that I should reset my pace. Slow and careful might give me a finished result I would actually be pleased with, I decided.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

Going with the grain

It’s important to fold with the selvedge edges neatly together and to consider which way the grain and any pattern is running. Diana’s patterns have arrows to help line up with the grain and stripes of the lining fabric we were using.

Ironing as you go is another important part that I know, left to my own devices, I’d be tempted to skip in my rush to get on.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

Natural & eco-friendly fabrics

So, I spent some relaxing time pinning the lining part of the pattern onto the striped cotton fabric I’d chosen. Diana buys in end of roll fabrics that would otherwise have ended up in landfill. All are natural fibres, and include the most beautiful linens, denims, striped cottons and pin striped wool.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

Next I cut out the main apron piece as well as the straps using a dark, heavy weight denim with a slight stretch. There are guide holes in the pattern which you chalk through to help match up where pockets go and where seams need to align.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

Time to start sewing

Cutting out completed, it was time to sew the lining pieces together. With a sewing machine! I told Diana about my tangled underbelly of threads track record, and she instantly knew the probable cause. I’d more than likely put the bobbin in the wrong way round and possibly missed one small bit in threading up the machine. That’s all it takes. We put thread on our bobbins and then Diana showed us how to make sure the bobbin is going the right way, by holding it up by the cotton and make a 6 shape.

Once the machine was threaded, I did a few test runs on scraps of fabric. As I struggled to keep up with the speeding machine, my seams swerved and wobbled and I seriously started to lose my nerve. The underside was getting vert tangled too. I started to get the old feeling… What had I been thinking?

The importance of taking it steady

Diana suggested trying again, this time stopping every few seconds or so and making sure the threads were all neat before starting. She’d noticed that I’d been jettisoning along at high speed without stopping. And that I’d missed out one little lever at the back of the machine when threading it. I set off again, properly threaded this time, and stopping every few stitches. Bingo! I’m not sure why, but I’d always thought you had to sew each seam in a continuous line without stopping!

Even an adept seamstress like Diana wouldn’t attempt to do this – or to go at the kind of speed I was. You learn a lot about yourself at workshops like this. And we did really laugh at the way my machine had been flogged almost to the point of lift-off. Seams and curses flying.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

It was time to move on to some real sewing. To begin a seam, Diana suggested we do a couple of stitches forwards, then another couple in backstitch before starting off, just to anchor the seam and stop it coming undone.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

I went slowly, stopping every few stitches and it worked perfectly. Now it was time to start on the apron and put in the darts around the bust. We did this by marking the lines from the pattern on to the fabric and pinning in place. It was easy to sew along the lines by taking it really slowly.

Attaching the lining

Next, we attached the lining fabric to the top part of the apron, following the markings on the pattern. Again, really easy. I was on a roll! Time to sew up the straps. The key to getting these to sit right is to stitch along the edge you’re joining, then turn the strap over so it’s going the other way and sitch along the other side too. This balances things out and makes the strap sit right. Once ironed and sitting nicely, we attached the straps to the apron, again following the markings, and slotted in place before we finished off joining the lining.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

Time for tea and biscuits

After a break for tea and organic chocolate biscuits, we put the final touches to the lining, by ironing the edges over and pinning in place, then sewing neatly as close to the ironed edge as possible. The trickiest part was taking the stitches around the ‘corner’ on the two top edges of the bib. Again, taking it slowly and stopping a lot really helped and soon I had an apron with a lovely striped lining around the top edges. I couldn’t really believe how good it was all looking.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

Now it was time for some neat hemming. Down the two sides, we ironed over about a centimetre and then pinned about the same again, but with a tiny bit extra where the seam line would go. Easy.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

I started to grow in confidence and speed, so I cracked on with the bottom hem. Too late I realised that pressing on without stopping as much had meant that there was too much fabric left at the end, so the final edge was really uneven. But I couldn’t live with it, so I unpicked and started again. More slowly again this time, and got a much better result. Anyone else feeling slightly irritated by how long it’s taking me to actually put into practice the simple lesson I keep saying I’ve learned?

More ironing and our apron dresses were really starting to come together. We put them on to check the fit and to work out where the inside button and button hole should go. I have to be honest, when Diana offered to do my button hole for me I didn’t hesitate. Having got that far, I didn’t want anything to go wrong at the eleventh hour.

Finishing touches

I almost backed out of attaching the red woven tape I’d chosen from the beautiful selection of braids and ribbons for the ties too, but decided to give it a go. Of all the pieces of sewing I did, this is the bit I’m most proud of. Taking my time, I managed to sew a near-perfect oblong around the end of the tape which looks pretty professional to me.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

We’d run out of time to add the pockets, but Diana talked us through how to attach them. There are chalk marks on the apron front to help positioning and hemming the edges of the pocket is the same as before. First off, you iron down the edges and then pin over once more to create a double seam. Then you sew neatly along the edge and finish by sewing in an oblong, like with the ties.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

The joy of being able to sew

I don’t actually have a sewing machine at home, but I’m seriously thinking of getting one now. Sewing no longer feels like a deep pit of futility and frustration. I have a passion for beautiful fabric, so if I can continue to improve my sewing skills, being able to do things with it (that don’t tip me over the edge) could open up years of creative joy.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

Find more ideas to make and enjoy

Why not hook up with me over on Pinterest where I share masses of creative ideas I think you might enjoy.

Update

The weekend after writing this, I spent a little time browsing sewing machines on the John Lewis website, feeling more than a little sad that I gave away my mum’s sewing machine after she died. I didn’t think I’d ever sew again at the time. I’d happily given it to a good friend of my mum’s who’d asked very nicely if she might have it. I am still happy she has it, but I am also sad that I’ve lost this possible connection with Mum. I’d love to be able to sit at her sewing machine now, looking through her threads and sewing bits and bobs. Last Saturday was also my mum’s anniversary to boot, so I was feeling everything even more than usual.

I just couldn’t make myself click the ‘pay now’ button and buy the shiny new machine from John Lewis. Instead, I headed out to my local shops to pick up what I needed for dinner and found myself (as I often do) popping into a few charity shops for a quick browse. First one I went into had the same make vintage sewing machine – Frister Mossmann – that I’d used at the workshop.

My ‘new’ 1976 vintage sewing machine!

One of the women running the shop was a real sewing expert and she kindly checked it all over for me. Inside the case was the original receipt from 1976 – bought for £120 from a sewing machine shop in Wimbledon. It felt like this was meant to be and I was very happy to pay the £25 to take it home. I can’t really believe I’m now someone who owns a sewing machine and wouldn’t be scared to use it. I say that, but I have so far put off finishing the pockets because I am a little worried it will all go to pot. Once I’ve got over myself I’ll add in the final photos! For now, here’s a picture of my apron and the sewing machine.

learn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashionlearn how to make a cross back apron dress with simple step by step DIY pattern tutorial - join me on the sewing workshop with Dolly in Lewes where I share my step by step images and tips from Diana Uprichard, founder of Dolly - handmade clothes, patterns and workshops to help real women make and wear clothes that feel good and will last #aprondress #crossback #howtosew #pattern #sewingworkshop #japanesecrossbackapron #frombritainwithlove #sewingtutorials #learntosew #sustainablefashion

I am also keeping an eye out for a second hand Reader’s Digest Complete Guide to Sewing because according to Diana it’s the best.  The older versions (like Diana’s) have wonderfully kitsch photographs from the 60s and 70s which take me straight back to my childhood – and my mum calmly sewing away at her machine. I doubt I’ll ever be as quietly calm as she was, but I love that I’m sewing again. And although it’s a different machine, I already love mine and I feel it was meant to come to me.

INFORMATION


If you would like to make a similar cross-back apron dress, I’ve found these patterns that I love:

Apron dress paper pattern by The Assembly Line

Japanese apron PDF pattern by Verity Hope

The Maria pinafore apron paper pattern by Maven Patterns

The Maria pinafore apron PDF pattern by Maven Patterns

Artisan apron paper pattern by Janet Clare

This paper pattern is very like the apron dress I made with Diana and is also by her: BUY HERE >>

This beauty is by The Assembly Line  and is suitable for beginners. You can buy the paper pattern here

love this cross back apron dress sewing pattern by The Assembly Line - it has japanese style cross back and is suitable for beginners. Click through for all the details you need as well as simple step by steps to making your own beautiful apron dress #sewingpattern #aprondress #frombritainwithlove #howtosew #sewing #sewingpatterns

BUY HERE >>

I have also found this fab japanese apron PDF sewing pattern by Verity Hope on Etsy. You can buy it here >>

love this cross back japanese apron dress artisan apron sewing pattern by Verity Hope available to buy as a download on Etsy. Click through to get all the information you need #japaneseapron #crossbackapron #sewingpattern #sewing #diytutorial

I also love these two by Maven patterns – one paper and one PDF download so you can choose whichever you prefer…

pinafore cross back apron dress sewing pattern by Maven patternsBUY PAPER SEWING PATTERN HERE >>

pinafore cross back apron dress PDF downloadable sewing pattern by Maven patternsBUY DIGITAL PDF DOWNLOAD PATTERN HERE >>

And, this Burnside Bibs pattern by Sew House Seven is possibly my favourite recent find… not strictly speaking an apron dress – more overalls or dungarees but, for me, they are the trouser equivalent of an apron dress. Just love this design. It’s suitable for intermediate level sewers, so I’m not sure my very basic skills are up to it. I might give it a go anyway. What could possibly go wrong 😂? Looks great in this natural linen and indigo denim. What do you think?

love this cross back linen overalls dungarees sewing pattern by Sew House Seven - it has japanese style cross back and is suitable for intermediate level sewers. Click through for all the details you need as well as simple step by steps to making your own beautiful apron dress #sewingpattern #aprondress #frombritainwithlove #howtosew #sewing #sewingpattern #overalls #dungarees love this cross back linen overalls dungarees sewing pattern by Sew House Seven - it has japanese style cross back and is suitable for intermediate level sewers. Click through for all the details you need as well as simple step by steps to making your own beautiful apron dress #sewingpattern #aprondress #frombritainwithlove #howtosew #sewing #sewingpattern #overalls #dungarees

Ready made options

I also wanted to share the linen apron I bought from Swedish House at Home, which is what started me off on this journey into making more of my own…

I love the wide straps and textural linen of this one – which I have hanging up beside me right now. BUY HERE >>

love this natural charcoal linen cross back japanese apron dress artisan apron sewing pattern by Verity Hope available to buy as a download on Etsy. Click through to get all the information you need #japaneseapron #crossbackapron #sewingpattern #sewing #diytutorial love this natural charcoal linen cross back japanese apron dress artisan apron sewing pattern by Verity Hope available to buy as a download on Etsy. Click through to get all the information you need #japaneseapron #crossbackapron #sewingpattern #sewing #diytutorial

How cute is this cross back linen apron in checked linen? You can buy it on Etsy here.

love this checked linen japanese cross back apron dress. You can buy it on Etsy now or if you fancy making one, I've shared the best sewing patterns as well as step by step tutorial to make one yourself. I almost live in mine! Hope you enjoy x

For sturdy artisan aprons, you won’t do better than The Stitch Society who make aprons so good they come with a 10-year guarantee! There’s a wide range of artisan and workwear aprons to choose from. I particularly love this Florist Apron BUY HERE >>

Florist apron artisan cross back pinafore workwear by The Stitch Society

Are you a maker or creative course provider? Like to list with us and benefit from joining our supportive community? We’d love to hear from you. Check out the packages we offer on our Join Us page and get more details from our Information pack here


A PIN TO SAVE TO PINTEREST

how to make an easy apron dress - I've shared the best sewing patterns as well as a step by step tutorial to make this beautiful cross back style using end of roll waste denim fabric and a simple pattern. There are lots of other favourite ideas too, including Japanese cross back apron styles too

This article contains some affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase. All our blog posts are independent and in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative. By clicking on an affiliate link, you accept that third-party cookies will be set. 

In: MAKE, Sewing

You’ll Also Love

peter rabbit knitting pattern based on the beatrix potter character by Claire Garland of Dot Pebbles knits. click through to get the PDF download pattern and other bunny rabbit knitting ideasPeter Rabbit knitting pattern toy by Claire Garland
make your own perfume - I learn how with The Cotswold PerfumeryHow to make your own perfume with The Cotswold Perfumery
paper cutting learn this enjoyable and decorative art at Make London with expert Suzy TaylorLearn the art of paper cutting

Comments

  1. Alexandra says

    May 22, 2021 at 12:39 am

    I love your honesty in describing the making of your gorgeous apron. It did make me smile. It’s true, one does want to rush through the stages that seem easy – until you make mistakes!
    My Mum also bought the same machine, I remember the day she and I took the train to West Croydon to see about buying a new sewing machine. She hated her old Singer hand cranked machine so much. I however absolutely loved it, memories watching her sewing me a pink Cotton dress with a full skirt that was so twirly….
    But she put the machine out with the rubbish one day. I was horrified, the beautiful machine with its mother of pearl inlay and gold lettering just thrown away? I tried to bring in back in to hide it, but she was adamant, it was going!
    So she found a machine that she liked, electric, all mod cons of its time. She declined it be delivered to us, she would take it right away. So that meant me having to carry it all the way home. I remember complaining bitterly about that : )
    Funnily enough, I don’t remember her sewing many things on that machine. I did use it occasionally, nothing complicated though. Forty plus years on, I have that machine with me. And many others. Vintage, modern, electric, hand cranked. It’s become a bit of a collection. I just need to get to grips with the overlocker I bought myself for Christmas a few years ago, it’s still in its box, I really must be brave and start using it!
    Thank you for sharing your sewing journey. I wish you all the best for future sewing projects and look forward to seeing them .

    Reply
    • Laura Dunkley says

      May 23, 2021 at 2:59 pm

      I’m so glad I made you smile – thanks for sharing your sewing machine journey. So interesting how they can be intertwined with memories of our mums isn’t it? Sounds like you have quite a collection now… Not even sure what an overlocker is, but good luck with getting it out of the box. I’m ashamed to say I still haven’t sewn the pockets on this apron dress. Maybe one day….

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Next Post >

How to start a flower cutting garden

About Me
I'm so glad you're here. I'm Laura - national women's magazine editor and journalist now sharing my passion for sustainable and creative living here. Hope you find something to enjoy and inspire! X

Categories

  • MAKE
  • MEET
  • LIFESTYLE
  • FLOWERS

Reader Favourites

The Directory

Browse Makers & Workshops

Pinterest

Login (directory listees)

Log in

Create account
Forgot password?

trending now

instagram

Follow @frombritainwithlove

It’s not too late to sow sweet peas - so easy to It’s not too late to sow sweet peas - so easy to grow and blissfully fragrant in the summer months. 
They were my mum’s favourite flower, so growing them now feels like a precious connection. Especially when I pick some and arrange them in her beautiful old blue and gold jug just as she used to do with the sweet peas my dad grew for her every year.
There are some really handy tips for growing success from founder of The Real Flower Company Rosebie Morton over on the blog (link in bio). Rosebie has a whole farm dedicated to sweet peas near Chichester so she knows a thing or two about the subject!
Main thing I’ve picked up from her is to allow lots of depth for root growth at this stage and to make my own supportive wigwams from twiggy branches when the plants are really starting to go for it and need a bit of direction. This photo is making me yearn slightly.
I love this image of my friend Jo - we were trying I love this image of my friend Jo - we were trying out tiny living for a feature I was writing - this was taken on our way to indulge in a spot of forest bathing. To be totally honest, we were both a little sceptical beforehand. But we were only saying the other day how taken aback we both were by the amazing effect it had. I’m working on some new ideas around the subject - will keep you posted. X
I’m currently working on a redesign of the whole I’m currently working on a redesign of the whole site - which has meant lots of photo editing and reorganising so much content. What’s been lovely (despite the claw hand from so much keyboard work!) is revisiting work and becoming engrossed all over again. I thought I’d share a few of the things I’ve been (re) loving - with links in the bio to the old site for now, but not for long…! X
This  image is from a feature about preserving garden roses. I’m going to give this a really good go this year, now I have a better idea what I’m doing. I know there’s nothing quite like a fragrant fresh rose in Summer but there’s a fragile beauty to dried and preserved flowers that I also love, don’t you?
Snowdrops 🌱🤍 . . . . . . #capturequiet #ins Snowdrops 🌱🤍 
.
.
.
.
.
.
#capturequiet #instabritain #natureandnourish #thewildernesstonic #cornersofmyworld
Signed copies of Bex Partridge’s new book Flower Signed copies of Bex Partridge’s new book Flowers Forever to be won! My bio has the link to enter as well as to get a peek inside. Beautifully photographed by Laura Edwards, I really enjoyed escaping into the pages and making plans for my own garden - hope you do too! X
To the Moon and Back Hares KNITTING PATTERN by Cla To the Moon and Back Hares KNITTING PATTERN by Claire Garland aka @dotpebbles_knits has to be the perfect post Christmas craft project 😊 
If you fancy getting your needles out to make this adorable pair, the link to buy Claire’s pattern is in my bio. Happy knitting! X
Thank you so much to Sarah @floribundaroseflorists Thank you so much to Sarah @floribundaroseflorists for a wonderful wreath making workshop yesterday. Such a special and creative space to spend time. I loved making my wreath - I went for a mixture of greenery arranged quite randomly with red waxed fresh apples, dried hydrangea, dried flowers, poppy and nigella seed heads and a winter white velvet bow. 
There were so many wonderful ingredients to choose from we were really spoiled for choice. 
Sarah’s new studio is such a beautiful, creative space. Think fragrant botanical candles flickering everywhere, mulled wine and apple juice simmering on the stove and containers full of fragrant festive greenery, waxed fruit, dried flowers and oranges, pine cones, lichen covered branches and even tiny gold wax-dipped fresh crab apples. 
Thank you for being so patient with my lengthy ribbon choice deliberations Sarah - and for bagging up a second choice option (dusky pink) to take home! X.  #wreathmaking #wreath #wreathsofinstagram #sustainablewreaths #wreathdecor #christmaswreath #velvetribbon #christmasdecor #festiveflowers
I’ve loved Olga Prinku’s work for ages now - s I’ve loved Olga Prinku’s work for ages now - she came up with the genius idea of embroidering on tulle using nature as her thread - and the results are sublime - like this Autumn colours beauty from her latest book.
I’m delighted that Olga is offering a fantastic prize bundle to my readers. For a chance to win one of her beautiful new dried flower embroidery kits (in collaboration with @driedandfloral ) as well as a signed copy of her wonderful new book(published by @quadrillebooks , pop over to my blog (link in my bio). It’s easy to enter so why don’t you give yourself a chance of winning this very lovely prize? Good luck! 
#driedflowers #driedflowerembroidery #olgaprinku #embroideryhoop #flowerembroidery #competitiontime #signedbooks #embroideryart #flowersontulle #autumn #autumncolours #hoopart #allthingsbotanical #instacraft
This beautiful image is by Laura Pashby @circleofp This beautiful image is by Laura Pashby @circleofpines and is from her beautiful new book Little Stories of Your Life. 
It’s packed with inspiration and practical ideas to help you become a visual story teller. Because, as Laura says, it’s the little moments that make up the fabric of all of our lives - and those moments are worth capturing and sharing with others.
We have three signed copies of the book to give away - just click the link in my bio to find out more. There’s a peek inside and a lovely film by @xantheb to enjoy too! X 
#littlemoments #littlestoriesbook #alifeofwords #lostinwords #competition #booksarelife #mindfulphotography #bookstagram #booksmakemehappy #booksconnectus #igreads #whatareyoureading #signedbooks
Thanks to Lisa from @inthemaking_aprons who has sh Thanks to Lisa from @inthemaking_aprons who has shared her wonderfully creative ideas for visibly mending well-loved clothing in need of repair and a little TLC.
She had me at ‘sometimes I like to use giant sequins…’ 
Hope you like Lisa’s ideas as much as I do. The link to head over to my blog and get all her step by steps is in my bio x
Thank you @therealflowerco for these heavenly swee Thank you @therealflowerco for these heavenly sweet peas - the perfect way to celebrate #britishflowersweek 
I just wish I could share the blissful fragrance with you too 💕🌸
#locallygrownflowers #flowersofinstagram #supportlocal #britishflowersweek2021 #britishseasonalflowers #flowersfromthefarm #sweetpeas
This heavenly knitted lamb is by Claire Garland ak This heavenly knitted lamb is by Claire Garland aka @dotpebbles_knits and just one of the creative spring projects you might enjoy immersing yourself in right now. To discover other inspirational ideas and to get all the info you need - including this free pattern by Claire - click the link in my bio. Hope you find something that brings you a little seasonal joy x
Thanks to Erin at @floretflower for sending me a s Thanks to Erin at @floretflower for sending me a surprise signed copy of her dreamy new book Discovering Dahlias - and another signed copy to share with one of you. 
To enjoy a peek inside - and for a chance to win - click the link in my bio. 
The truly beautiful photographs (including this one) are all by Erin’s husband Chris Benzakein #discoveringdahlias #floretflowerfarm #dahliasofinstagram #flowersgivemepower #giveawayuk
Thanks to @sarahravenperchhill for sharing a beaut Thanks to @sarahravenperchhill for sharing a beautifully simple way to arrange snowdrops and other early spring flowers over on the blog (link is in my bio). I’ve already made my own simple flower grid using foraged twigs and it works brilliantly! 
As well as sharing her simple step by steps, there’s also a video tutorial where Sarah shares more inspiring ideas for creating with early spring flowers. The beautiful photographs are by @jonathanbuckleyphotography - hope you enjoy! X
Last call to enter our Pippa Greenwood Grow Your O Last call to enter our Pippa Greenwood Grow Your Own gift bundle competition!
My favourite #gardenersquestiontime panellist @pippa.greenwood offers a range of totally brilliant Grow Your Own gift bundles - which include garden-ready veg plants sent out at the right time for planting, email growing advice, tips and recipes from Pippa herself as well as signed copies of The Gardener’s Year. It’s the perfect gift for anyone interested in growing their own fresh produce - and comes with the best expert advice!
We have two Pippa Greenwood GYO gift bundles to be won - the link to enter the competition, and to find out more is in my bio - Good luck!
Last call for anyone who’d like to enter our Cla Last call for anyone who’d like to enter our Claire Garland Christmas Mouse knitting pattern competition. The link to enter is the top one in my bio. Good luck!
If you’re finding the world a somewhat shouty an If you’re finding the world a somewhat shouty and overwhelming place right now, you might like to get behind Sarah Corbett @craftivists new project - she’s crowdfunding to create the final part of her Craftivism trilogy: the Craftivist Collective Handbook. It will be a beautiful hardback with 20 gentle protest Craftivist projects and tools to help readers become positive and effective change makers. Because slow and gentle can be more effective in the long run than fast and loud. I am 100% behind Sarah’s project and have no doubt that those of us in the crafty, creative community have plenty to contribute when it comes to making a better, fairer world. 
Stitching a powerful message can be  more effective than shouting it at someone who’s not listening to you. If you’d like to get involved or find out more, follow the top link in my bio.
Thanks to @botanical_tales for sharing beautiful d Thanks to @botanical_tales for sharing beautiful dried flower wreath ideas over on the blog - link in bio. I love this dried mini wreath as natural gift wrapping decoration (you can buy ready-made too) - all the links are in the post.
Thanks too to Kirsten @henthorn_farm_flowers for sharing her step by steps for creating a stunning giant foraged dried flower wreath as well as her beautiful simple wreath in silvery winter whites. 
I’m increasingly obsessed with the idea of growing my own flowers for drying and creating lovely things with them. Watch this space for more dried flower inspiration coming soon... X
One of the joyful things about this time of year f One of the joyful things about this time of year for me is making plans for next spring and summer in my flower cutting garden. After two years of growing cut flowers, I’m ready for some fresh ideas and to raise my game a little more. I would like to fill some gaps in shape and colour and to extend the flowering season in particular. I’d also like to start drying and preserving my flowers... so I am thrilled that Kirsten of @henthorn_farm_flowers has shared a beautiful glimpse into her seasonal and sustainable flowery world as well as lots of fantastic expert tips and ideas over on the blog - the link is in my bio. I hope you find some inspiration too. Kirsten lives in a very beautiful part of the world - the Ribble Valley in Lancashire. It’s an area very close to my heart as I grew up not far away. Loved spending a little virtual time there again, thanks to Kirsten - and I am yearning to go back in person one day soon and breathe it all in again.
To be honest, I’m still clinging on to the last To be honest, I’m still clinging on to the last moments of Summer. I do always eventually embrace Autumn but, this year in particular, I’m wanting to hold on for as long as possible to the quiet bliss of the last few months. 
I do really worry about what lies ahead for us all, but spending time outdoors, connecting, really up close, to what’s going on in the garden definitely helps. I still have roses, sweet peas, snapdragons, zinnias, asters and LOTS of dahlias blooming so there are always jars and jugs of flowers on every available surface. Rose geranium leaves have been a revelation for adding a fragrant green frilliness - and now I’m full of love for abelia. 
This beautiful photo is by @gandgorgeousflowers and captures the between-seasons beauty in the flower garden right now. I am inspired to create something similar as I have many of the same colours. 
I do realise that it’s silly (and utterly pointless 😂) to resist Autumn as it’s actually one of the most beautiful times of year. As soon as the leaves really turn, and everywhere starts to smell like Autumn, I’m sure I’ll be fully on board. 
With that in mind, I’ve shared lots of inspiring Autumn Flowers ideas over on the blog (link in my bio) from some of my favourite flower creatives including @gandgorgeousflowers @simplybyarrangement @therealflowerco @wildbunchflowers @floribundaroseflorists @thesussexflowerschool @electricdaisyflowerfarm 

Hope you enjoy - and find a little bit of creative inspiration too. X

INFORMATION

  • Join Us
  • Get in touch
  • About us

DIRECTORY LISTEES

Log in

Create account
Forgot password?

BROWSE

  • Shop
  • Directory
  • Features
  • T & Cs
  • Accessibility
  • Privacy

Copyright © 2025 From Britain with Love

Change Location
Find awesome listings near you!