Whether you’re doing a messy craft or trying out a new recipe, an apron is a great way to protect your clothes—and we’re not just talking about kids, they’re also fantastic for messy adults! Aprons easily slip over everything from thin T-shirts to bulky sweaters, come in many styles, and they are relatively inexpensive. However, plain aprons can feel a little lackluster. While there are indeed patterned aprons available, they tend to cost more. Plus, with those, you’d be missing out on the fun of customizing your own!
Want a one-of-a-kind apron for you and the kids? All you need is a classic apron and these 7 ideas.
1. Try Tie Dye
The explosion of retro colors that tie-die provides has come back in a big way. To get the most out of this customization, you should start with a bright white apron. While a beige tone will also do, keep in mind your colors may look more muted. Either way, though, this activity requires a cotton apron, so check the material to avoid disappointment.
Never done tie-dye before? You can find all the information you need through a tie-dye tutorial. Or, there are also tie-dye kits available that come with instructions. For a non-toxic option, try tie-dye with Kool-Aid.
2. Personalize with Paint
Mix up some acrylic paint with a bit of fabric medium to create colors that can stand up to the washing machine. This activity is fantastic to make everything from abstract designs to portraits of cartoon characters.
Not much of an artist? This method also works great with stencils. If you own a Cricut cutter or have a friend with this machine, you can even make custom stencils. Just be aware that this method of customization can make clothing feel a bit stiff if you load the paint on. Luckily, if this happens with an apron, it isn’t a big deal, though—it will still do its job. However, for the best results, opt for thinner layers. It is always best to gradually build up the paint than go in with one giant glob.
3. Use Embroidery
This cheap activity only requires some embroidery thread and needle, both of which you can find at most dollar stores. Embroidery is ideal for any color of apron, but generally, one made out of a slightly thicker material like canvas is easier to work with.
This activity is not only ideal for decorating an apron with everything from butterflies to names, but it also provides an opportunity to teach kids a life skill. If you don’t know where to start, try using an embroidery pattern for kids. For younger children that are too small to use a needle, consider letting them draw a small design in washable marker then embroidering over it to make the design permanent.
4. Rip and Replace
While you have a needle and thread out, you may also want to consider replacing either the straps or a pocket with some funky fabric. You will need a seam ripper to take out the original. Then once removed, use it as a template to cut from a fun fabric and attach it to the apron. Voila! By replacing an element or two, you can create a whole new apron that can have anything from superhero pockets to flower straps.
5. Turn up the Heat
Iron-on patches work on any color of apron, are relatively cheap, and come in a variety of designs. With this customization option, you can easily embellish an apron with dinosaurs, a police badge, the logo of your favorite sports team, a cartoon character, etc.
Alternatively, you may also opt to use iron-on transfer paper. With this paper, you simply load it in your printer and print a backward image on it (there are papers available for both inkjet and laser printers). Then from there, you flip the image facedown on the apron and gently rub an iron over it. Within a minute or so, you will have transferred that image right to your apron. This method is a wonderful option when precision is wanted without a significant time investment.
6. Pop on a Name Tag
If you don’t want to alter the apron directly, a name tag is perfect for adding some personality and flair. Sticker name tags are ideal if you’re going to change it up frequently (AKA, you want to keep your kids occupied while you set up an activity). However, reusable name tags are also a hoot. Either way, this activity works best with an assortment of crayons, markers, and stickers. Stamps, glitter, and paint can also be fun for nametags, but just make sure kids are already wearing their apron as these mediums tend to get messy!
If you are looking to upcycle, a frozen juice can lid covered in felt creates the perfect base for a nametag. They are highly durable and fabric paint adheres to them wonderfully. Plus, you have the option of attaching this type of name tag to the apron by either gluing a pin to the back or punching a hole in the top to make a lanyard.
7. Mix & Match
Nothing says you can only do one of these customizations. You can still rock a tie-dye apron with a handmade name tag, or add a few iron-on patches to your painted masterpiece. The whole idea of a custom apron is to have fun and show off your personality while protecting your clothes. So even if that means embracing a bit of everything on the list, go for it!
A custom apron will not only protect your clothes from an assortment of messy activities like baking and working in the garden, but it also provides the perfect opportunity to bond with your kids. After all, arts and crafts activities are always fun, but projects that you get to use afterward tend to feel the most special. Happy customizing!
Disclaimer: I have teamed up with All Seasons Uniforms in support of this campaign. We received compensation for participation in this campaign. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.