How serendipitous that just a few weeks ago I started a pottery course and for the first time in my life was in need of a potter's apron. So when it was announced that my March work project over at In The Folds would be an apron with a vent I couldn't believe my luck!

I made my version in a grey cotton canvas, which has a medium/heavy weight. I toyed with the idea of a beautiful neutral seeded linen but decided against the lighter weight and more open weave as I have discovered I am a bit of a sloppy potter. I am usually splattered from top to toe after a wheel throwing class, so wanted the protection of a tighter, more densely woven fabric.

Also, some pottery tools can be sharp, so I wanted my pockets to be able to hold up to a bit of rough handling, hence my decision to also construct the pocket linings entirely out of the same canvas, rather than subbing in a lighter fabric to reduce bulk, which is recommended in the instructions.

Although I am pretty tall (178cm/5,10") and usually need to lengthen patterns, I didn't feel the need to make any alterations to the Ormond Apron. I am normally a size D-E in ITF patterns and I made the smallest size, as recommended. I feel the proportions work for me.

How nice is that sweeping, curved design line on the lower front side. My favourite feature (aside from the genius front split!) is the cross over back, it looks so cool. I've also seen some makers switch out the button holes for d-rings, which is a brilliant idea too.

I am thrilled with how this project turned out, and thoroughly appreciated the chance to practice welt pockets and vents, which certainly are tricky techniques to master. 

I will get so much wear out of this apron at my weekly pottery class!