Recently, I told you about my lovely Japanese apron. I had set out to create very pretty bias tape finishes and mentioned that you can elevate simple pieces with beautiful finishes!

However, at that time, the apron wasn’t really finished... because a Japanese apron without pockets is like a sewing machine without a needle: not very useful! 

So I had to create pockets that matched my finishing standards and always kept the Japanese spirit—so what better than pockets embroidered in sashiko?

Let me tell you about this adventure!

One pocket, two pockets, or a compartmentalized front pocket?

The first step was to choose the type of pocket. Which pocket would be the most useful and functional for me? 

I opted for two pockets on the sides. I felt they suited my needs better. Also, the size was perfect for the embroidery I wanted to do. 

The sashiko pattern

So I decided to embroider the pockets in Japanese sashiko embroidery. I wanted to create a very traditional pattern on one pocket and an original (modern) pattern on the other. 

I chose the asanoha pattern (hemp leaf) for the traditional pocket and really wracked my brain for the original pattern, which I erased several times before settling on the little cats on the seigaiha pattern.

I had initially chosen a carp but I didn’t like the result. I drew several and erased... before deciding that cats were a better idea both because of the love I have for them and their Japanese symbolism. Ten minutes later, the pattern was taking shape under my needle. 

If you are interested in learning more about sashiko, feel free to read the article here.

Finishing the pockets

Once the two pockets were embroidered, I soaked and trimmed them to properly finish my embroidery. 

I chose a red pocket lining to match the color of the bias tape I had used. I wanted to add a little touch of red at the top of the pockets; so I opted for red piping.

I attached the piping, then applied the lining. 

I chose the position of the pockets by pinning them on the apron. Once their position was approved, I pressed them onto the apron by sewing them two millimeters from the edge with navy blue thread. 

And ta-da, my apron was finished! I was thrilled to be able to wear it especially on the day of our first sashiko embroidery introductory workshop.

And you, would you like to create Japanese embroidery? Or simply make this pretty apron? We organize courses to get started but also to advance in embroidery, sewing, crochet, and knitting.

So, get your needles ready!