Apron Challenge: September

September for most folks means heading back to school.  And we're no exception.  Both kids like their teachers and enjoy riding the bus with the new neighbors.  Since we're only just starting the third week of classes, homework's been light but already my son has been home sick one day with the start of a head cold.  Sheesh!

However, September is also my anniversary month.  So not only does it mark off another milestone year for the kids', my husband and I have a reason to celebrate as well.  Last year I did a post filled with photos from the wedding and sentimental memories.  But let's get back to the apron.

A few months ago my sister recovered her bridesmaids dress from the back rack of her attic storage and allowed me to cut off the bottom 18" of the skirt.  This is re-purposing at it's finest!

I made a simple gathered apron and added a scattering of rhinestones and daisies.  Even though it was a September wedding, I insisted that daisies be used in the arrangements.  On our first date, Hank brought me a bouquet of daisies.  This was the first time anyone had ever given me flowers, and it made a lasting impression. 

Instead of having the typical long ties in the back of the apron, I made a large bow to mimic the "big butt bow" I had on my wedding dress.  Incidentally, my mother and I debated about taking it off my dress, but decided that it was slightly hidden by my long veil and seemed appropriate.  Here, I used a rhinestone buckle to secure the center of the bow.  And the waistband has a snap closure under the bow.

So I guess this apron goes into the "one for show" category.  Polyester taffeta and rhinestones don't lend themselves very well to bacon grease and bread flour.  But then this was a sentimental sewing project from the start.

 

And keeping that in mind, I couldn't resist trying on my headpiece again.

I'll let my cookie jar owl model it for you while I explain...this crown was purchased in 1965 by my mother for her wedding.  I wore it when I was married.  Both my sister and I wore it for our First Communions, as did my daughter for hers.  The veil is adjusted for each occasion, longer for the brides and shorter for the little girls.  Hopefully it will get worn again, and the tradition will continue!

Well, if you've been sewing along with me, you know that this is the final month of the Apron Challenge.  I can't believe we've gone through a full year already!  Next time maybe hot pads?  Tote bags?  Knitted socks of the Month?!  Too many possibilities.  But I suspect I'll take a break for a while and get a few more of my projects in order.  Be sure to check out the Apron Challenge Tab at the top of the blog for photos from each month.  Thank you to everyone who participated, posted photos and kept me inspired this past year!