Book Report - The Apron Book

Ok, let's see if I remember how to do this... I think it goes something like this: I write a (hopefully somewhat interesting) post, a few people read it, and maybe someone comments now and then. Does that sound about right? Here goes:

I received The Apron Book ages ago, and I was quite thrilled. I've been a collector of vintage aprons and apron patterns for some time (see some of them here), and I've stitched up a few. So, I was interested to see how this book would relate to a simple piece of long-lived domestic culture.

The book is cute - it includes lots of full-color photos of vintage aprons, patterns, and related ephemera. Chapters are sprinkled liberally with the "Every Apron Tells a Story" feature, where folks share their memories of aprons and the people who wore them. There is even a chapter on special occasion aprons - you know: poinsettias, hearts, and martinis! The book includes instructions for making 3 styles of aprons, plus instructions and a full-size pattern for one more (the "Basic Bib Apron"). Tips for embellishing, customizing, and modernizing apron patterns are numerous. Some fun and retro recipes (Coke and Cherry Jello salad anyone?) add to the fun. My criticisms are few: 1) although much of the photography is lovely, some of the shots leave something to be desired; and 2) the publicity insert begins: "Tie one on and join in the celebration of an American Icon". Although Amy probably doesn't own the phrase, this seems to borrow heavily from the fantastic Tie One On site without directly crediting or listing it as a resource. Just seems like a glaring omission to me - why no mention of the blog in a resources index?

Here are some pics of the aprons:

In other apron news, I was thrilled to find this while out thrifting on Monday:

I just love how the fashion drawings on patterns reflect the style of the time - I'm obsessed with these super mod graphics! Yet another one for the collection...

And, as if this weren't enough apron love, we just added a bunch of new books at superbuzzy, including two apron books here and here!   

Comments

[Sasha]

I just got around to sewing my first apron, fun!
Love the empire waisted one.

[hannah]

oooh that pattern is so great! how is life?? are you all done with your design work now?

[Kirsten]

I purchased a copy of this book recently and am enjoying it also :)

[Siri]

Great find, that apron pattern! Lots of good options there.

[amy k.]

it is a lovly book with some really nice vintage aprons-

and thanks for the mention! I wish were listed as a resource as well, but I am just happy there are more apron books out there-but again, thanks for the support Kelly.

[Bitter Betty]

The illustrations on that pattern make my knees weak.. How crazzy is that art?
The empire waist long rufflled apron is too lovely.

[Tin-Tin M.]

those apron patterns are awesome. i can't get over how skinny their waists are! hahahah. i want to buy that book now.