New Apron Style - The Japanese Crossback

A few years ago my Mom brought me back an apron from one of her trips to Japan. It is very simple - just crosses at the back and ties at the waist - but I love it! I like that it does not have the neck ties since those halter type aprons tend to hurt my neck if I wear them for too long. You may notice if you have visited my Etsy shop that most of the aprons I make and sell pull over your head.

I started searching on "Japan apron" online and found so many great styles. Here are some of them:

I love the crossback and the fact that there are no ties at all. I wanted mine to be slightly more A-line if possible. I started with my pattern for the butcher apron, which has a nice A-line and overlaps in the back. I decreased the overlap and replaced the halter strap at the neck with adjustable shoulder straps that cross in the back. Finally, I added a large pocket in the front that is divided into two sections. Here is my version:

I really like how it turned out. I have already made several in the colorful quilting cottons that I like to use for my aprons. You can find them here. I am also planning some more utilitarian versions of this style in ticking and linen. Can't wait to start working on those!