I learned that the leather apron has been used for hundreds of years in many different professions. It is still very much an essential and helpful garment for everyday use.
A leather apron is a garment that generally covers the front of the body, and worn primarily for protection of one’s body and clothing from stains, heat, and sharp objects. They are most commonly worn by welders, blacksmiths, woodworkers, cobblers, metal fabricators, barbers, and bartenders.
Let’s explore what makes leather aprons useful, and the differences one might look for when planning to make one or buy one to use.
What is a Leather Apron?
A leather apron is a protective garment that primarily covers the front of the body. It is most often secured around the neck with a loop, or ties, and also secured behind the waist most often via attached strings or ties. This provides for a securely-attached layer of leather in between the wearer and the work that they are performing.

Blacksmith with Leather Apron in Shop
Commonly, wearing an apron helps protect the wearer from getting stains on their clothes. This is most often found with apron-wearers in the kitchen while cooking, with chefs, and waitstaff in restaurants. Others, such as painters and crafters, also find aprons helpful to keep paints and glues off of clothing. The thickness of leather aprons makes them especially useful for those that work in environments with high-heat, sharp tools, and mortised machinery. Also, the leather fibers are very dense, providing a layer of protection between the worker and their work environment.
Leather aprons come in different sizes and styles, depending on personal preferences, and also vary based the intended job they will be used for. The meaning of leather apron is generally having a thick, protective layer of material between the wearer and their work. Some come with pockets and pouches, intended to keep specialized tools within easy reach. They are usually secured behind the neck and waist with buckles, snaps, straps, or ties. Custom made aprons are also available, as well as DIY leather aprons for those interested in making their own.
Why Use a Leather Apron?
In various work environments, wearing a leather apron is important, as a leather apron is useful to have over one’s body and clothes. The advantages of a leather apron include, and this thick and dense material can help protect against:
Stains
Some jobs require working with greases, fluxes, glues, paints, foods, and a near-endless number of substances that could stain clothing. A well-treated leather apron can help prevent any of these substances from coming in contact with clothing, as well as provide a surface that is durable and easy to clean.
Heat
Some work, such as welding, glass blowing, and metal fabrication, involves being near heat and sparks. The leather apron provides a barrier between the worker and their work area. If any of the hot tools or hardware are dropped or inadvertently come into contact with the worker, they will most likely contact the leather apron. The apron will help prevent the heat from quickly transferring to the worker, and allow them time to adjust and keep working.
Additionally, in metal fabrication, sparks are commonplace from cutting blades and grinding wheels. A leather apron provides a surface where these sparks can generally bounce off safely and allow the worker to keep working. Where fabric aprons would not allow for this level of protection, leather aprons provide an excellent option for protection, maneuverability, and comfort.
Sharp Tools/Objects
In fields such as wood working or leather working, sharp tools such as knives, cutting blades, drill bits, and materials with sharp edges can be very commonplace. Wearing a leather apron can help the worker if, for example, a cut piece of wood flies off of the saw table towards the worker.
Or, if they are turning wood on a lathe, the sawdust and wood shavings simply catch onto the apron and can be easily wiped off. Additionally, when working with sharp knives or tools, if they are dropped onto a lap or roll off of the table, the leather surface will provide a protective layer for the worker. The apron can be quite a handy and effective garment.
These are the key advantages of an apron. So even while it’s a relatively basic garment, protection while working is primarily why wearing an apron is important. This can be especially so in jobs that involve heat or sharp tools.
Who Wears an Apron?
Many professionals and hobbyists wear aprons while they work. This includes men, women, children, literally anyone whom would would see value in and benefit from having a protective layer over themselves and their clothing. Let’s take a look at some of the popular types of leather aprons.
Leather Apron for Welding
Leather aprons for welding are usually made of cowhide leather, have integrated pockets for tools, and can come coated with a fire proofing surface treatment to help protect against heat and flames. The heavy cowhide helps protect against sparks, spatter, slags, and some flames that are encountered during welding work.
Welding aprons often come in a one-size-fits-all proportion, though some are available in individual sizes, and custom made and DIY leather aprons for welding are available options too. These need to mores be effective than fancy, so there are often very suitable options available for most any budget.

Welder with Leather Apron
Blacksmith Leather Apron
A leather apron for blacksmithing has to stand up to rigorous use around hot steel, forges, fiery coals, hammers, punches, chisels, and anvils. It also needs to protect the wearer from the heat and sparks as embers fly around the workshop.
Key for blacksmith aprons is fit and comfort, as the wearer will be moving a lot, and performing many physical movements throughout the day while wearing the apron. The material should be thick, light, flexible, and durable.
Leather Apron for Barbers
Barbers perform work cutting and styling hair. Most often, they wear cloth aprons, making it easy to keep hair off of clothing, store items in front pockets, and present any hair dying liquids from getting onto their clothes.
A light leather apron can serve all of the same functions, while also being very classy and stylish. Key is the material is light, allowing for comfort while wearing all day, and also maneuverability as the barbers will benefit from having manual dexterity and freedom of movement while performing their craft.
Leather Apron for Bartenders
Bartenders are often on the move, and benefit from having an apron that is spill-resistant, stain-resistant, and has pockets to hold bottle openers, wine openers, cash, and other tools. A treated leather apron can be an excellent, and stylish option for bartenders. The fit should be proper, and allow for freedom of movement, as bartenders are often bending, stretching, and active all throughout a shift.
Leather Apron for Woodworking
A leather woodworking apron is an exceptionally handy garment to have in the shop. As woodworkers are working around tools all day, it’s often possible to come into contact with share edges, blades, splinters, and wood shavings flying about.
What should I look for in a woodworking apron?
A quality woodworking apron will be heavy enough to resist penetration from tools and woods, while also fitting well to allow freedom of movement during bending, stretching, pushing, pulling, and working with both hand tools and power tools.
Additionally, the number of and location of pockets can be a helpful element as well. Pockets can store tools, hardware, pencils, and frequently used items. Some woodworking aprons also have loops, where tools such as hammers can be hung and stay in easy reach.
When considering what is an apron in woodworking that will perform the best, that is often a mix of personal preference for shape, size, thickness of the leather material, finish, durability, and cost.
Metal Fabrication Apron
A metal fabrication apron is used in the rigorous environment of cutting, welding, sanding, and polishing pieces and metalwork. Since it has to withstand potentially high temperatures, and occasional sharp edges, corners, and blades, a leather metal fabrication apron can be quite helpful.
Depending on the specialization of metal fabrication being done, the apron might include unique tool pockets, so the most uses tools are pithing easy reach through a project. Proper fit and adjustability are also important in ensuring the apron is comfortable to wear all day.
Carpenters Leather Apron
The carpenters leather apron is very similar to that of a woodworking apron. It is often a thick enough leather that it will deter penetration from blades and sharp tools. Also, it usually includes pockets that can hold tools and hardware, while additional loops can hold frequently-used hammers. Pencil/pen pockets are common too, as well as locations to secure tape measures and accessories.
Custom Leather Shop Apron
Depending on the type of work you do, a custom leather shop apron might be the best option. Since the tools and how they are used are often as unique as the crafter using them, custom aprons allow for an excellent match of size, utility, quality, and function.
Custom leather shop aprons are available for use in most any industry or profession. They might cost more that standard aprons, though if one uses them for long periods of time, and in specialized areas, the utility, comfort, and protection provided will likely be very well worth it.

Barista with Leather Apron
Leather Wood Turning Aprons
Wood turning involves shaving wood off of a rotating wooden block, often at high motor speeds. Chisels are held at angles to the wood, shaves off the wood as the block spins. As the wood shavings fly off, they might hit the wood worker.
Having a strong apron helps protect the woodworker, and keeps the shavings and other shop materials off of their clothes. Additionally, a chisel dropped onto a leather apron should likely not be an issue, as the leather material should help keep the edge from touching the woodworker. A leather wood turning apron can be a great addition to the shop if one frequently performs turning work.
Leather Cobbler Apron (Leather Shoemaker Apron)
Cobblers work on crafting, making, and repairing shoes, boots, and footwear. Thus, they often work with sharp blades, mallets, and other tools in the shop. Wearing a leather cobbler apron can help provide protection from dropped tools, while also keeping the cobbler’s clothes clean throughout the process. The cobbler apron can also include helpful pockets to store oft-used tools, making it useful and handy garment to have.
Leather Apron for Cooking
While cooking usually involves apron-wearing to keep food and liquids from staining clothes, a leather apron for cooking can add style to that activity. Additionally, the dense leather can help protect the chef or cook from dropped kitchen tools and utensils that might be sharp, such as knives or other cutting implements.
Steampunk Leather Apron
A steampunk leather apron is designed more for appearance than pure utility, though often they can certainly be used as working aprons. Frequently, aligned with the steampunk aesthetic, steampunk leather aprons will include visually interesting metal accessories, intricately etched designs, and additional elements of a decorative nature.
These can be very fun, impressive works of creative art that can also provide a utilitarian function and be used for everyday work.
Leather Apron for BBQ
Barbecuing places the postmaster right amongst lots of heat, meat, and liquids, with plenty of opportunity for spills and stains. A leather bbq apron can help protect them, while also deflecting some heat from the barbecue itself, and any hot tools that might come in contact with the leather.
Often, this type of apron will have pockets or loops to hold tongs, spatula, thermometer, and related accessories. Generally, a lighter thickness of leather here will allow for the most freedom of movement, and comfort from being too hot, especially if it is worn on warm days out by the bbq.
Handmade Leather Apron
Handmade leather aprons generally offer the opportunity to create a stronger, higher-quality apron. Often, handmade leather aprons are also custom, allowing the buyer to design and guide the shape, size, and what pockets/loops are included so that it best performs to their preferences and the type of work that they do.
Elements to consider include leather type, thickness, overall apron size, shape, and also the conditions it will be used in. These can include warmer or colder environments, brief periods of time, or all day use.
Butcher Leather Apron
A butcher leather apron is primarily used to protect the butcher’s clothing from stains, and occasional abrasions from sharp machines or knives. There might be some accessory loops or pockets, though the ability to resist moisture and stains will be key to a successful butcher leather apron. Thus, most of this type are surface treated to help aid in their performance.
Medieval Leather Apron
A medieval leather apron refers most often to a style of apron from medieval times. Some are decorative and use in costuming, reenacting, and living history performances. Others can mimic utilitarian aprons also used during the time. These most often resemble those of modern times, where the intention is to provide protection to the wearer, mainly from stains and sharp tools.
Leather Apron for Leather Craft
Leather working involves utilizing sharp hand tools, and can also include power tools when performing activities such as burnishing, sanding, skiving, or sewing. An apron for leather working helps provide that protective layer between the leather craftsperson and their clothing, to deflect leather dust, shavings, glues, dyes, and if a tool should roll off of the work surface or be dropped.
Additionally, pockets on a leather craft apron can be utilized to hold commonly-used tools, making them easy to reach while working. Also, making a leather working apron out of leather, can in itself be a very fun and fulfilling leather craft project 🙂
Leather Apron for Crafts
Crafters often work with glues, paints, dyes, and tools (woodburning, hot glue guns, etc.). A leather apron for crafting allows the crafter to protect their clothes from marks and stains. Those aprons with pockets also provide for handy tool storage within easy reach, making the creative process even easier to perform.
Leather Apron for Jewelry Making
Jewelry makers can work with hot tools, such as soldering irons. Additionally, intricate grinders, drills, and polishers can be used, making it helpful to have a protective layer between the crafter and their clothing. A leather apron for jewelry making is an excellent solution, as it can help deflect sparks, dust, soldering bits, and dropped tools from coming into contact with the wearer.
Leather Apron for Smelting
Smelters frequently work in front of hot smelting furnaces, or even small table-top smelting machines that become very hot. Thus, having a protective layer, made of thick, dense, leather, provides a great surface that helps deflect heat while they work. Also, especially helpful is the ability for the leather to defect how metals that might jump out or drip onto them during the working process. Generally, heavier leathers provide more benefit in this work environment.

Welder with Full-Sleeve Leather Apron
Leather Apron for Glass Blowing
Glass blowers and artisan glass makers often work near hot ovens and with how metal tools. A leather apron for glass blowing provides a suitable layer of protection for them and their clothing, while also allowing for freedom of movement. This is key as glass blowers often need to move quickly, and accurately during the creation of their work.
Leather Apron Sizes and Sizing
The key parts of a leather apron are the yoke, bib, body ,and ties. The yoke and bib can be sized based on the upper-half of a person’s size, generally from the waist up. The body can blend from the yoke and down the legs. Some aprons are intended to be shorter (and lighter), while others intentionally longer (and heavier). Some aprons have the body split down the middle towards the bottom. So, for example, if it runs the length of the legs, each leg can move independently without pushing the entire apron forward. This helps when sitting, walking, bending, and moving during work.
The ties can vary based on apron style. Some are simple cords or strings that are tied together. Others can be straps with buckles. Yet others can be “x” or “y” strap systems that cross the back and allow for details adjustment and fit. The overall needs is based mainly on personal preference, and the type of work being performed.
Leather apron sizing can vary widely as well, to offer enough options to accommodate different needs. Generally, they run in sizes including small, medium, large, x-large, xx-large, and bigger. Some are sized as one-size-fits-all. Custom leather apron sizes are definitely an option. This can be of benefit to a user that has particular preferences, for a particular need, and wants a near-perfect and comfortable fit.
How Do You Put On An Apron?
Most commonly, an apron is put on by pulling the neck loop over the head and resting it on the shoulders. This positions the bib in front of the body. Next, the waist ties are secured (usually by tying) behind the back, securing the apron in front of the body.
Instead of a neck loop, some aprons styles have straps that cross the back, and others with straps that function similar to suspenders. For these styles, the arms are put through the straps, then the straps secured (often with buckles). Next, the straps can be adjusted for proper fit on the body. Waist ties are usually secured as well, and the apron sits securely on the body, allowing for freedom of movement and dexterity.
What to Look for When Buying a Leather Apron
When buying a leather apron, there are a few features to consider to help ensure the one selected will be comfortable, functional, and align well with personal preferences. Let’s look at a few below:
Leather Softness
A softer leather generally provides more flexibility and allows for easier movement while wearing it. Sometimes, softer leathers are lighter in weight too. Stiffer leathers can be heavier, and offer more protection from heat and abrasions.
Leather Thickness (weight)
Thinner leathers are generally lighter and more flexible, making wearing them throughout the day easier. Thicker leathers are usually heavier, and provide more protection. This is helpful in more extreme work environments such as blacksmithing. Leather thickness is most commonly measures in “ounces”, where the “weight” of a piece might be describes as 3oz. A 3oz thickness of leather will be thinner than a 6oz thickness of leather.
Break-In Time
Some heavier leather aprons will have break-in time. This is where the movements from wearing it will help make it more flexible and comfortable in the areas where the wearer moves the most. Since each person is slightly different, this will help break in the apron for that particular person, providing them with an apron that fits their individual movements very comfortably.
Physical Weight
Physical weight of an apron can be a large factor. Some lighter aprons can be worn all day very easily. Heavier aprons, such as those used for blacksmithing and welding, require heavy, thick leathers which also make the aprons heavier. While necessary to help deflect heat and sparks, these can also be more tiring to wear for long periods.
One factor to keep in mind is the way the leather was tanned. Oil tanned leathers are usually heavier in general, as they contain heavy oils in the leather fibers. Leather tanned using a chromium tanning process do not have these oils, and thus can be lighter, even for the same thickness of leather. Thus, when looking for a thick, protective leather that is also light, chrome-tanned leather could be a helpful choice.

Living Historians with Waist Leather Aprons
Fit
As with most garments, a proper fit will allow the wearer to enjoy the benefits of the apron, while also allowing for freedom of movement and use. Fit can include overall length, size, and the way the straps are used and can be adjusted to secure the apron to the wearer.
Cost
Expense is often a factor when purchasing an apron. One wants an apron that will perform well and last a long time, while also not being too expensive. As is often the cast, quality costs a little more, and custom leather aprons can be some of the most expensive. However, there is often a bigger-picture view that can be considered; if one will be working daily in an environment where a quality leather apron is essential to stay protected and perform quality work, then often it is well-worth the cost for one that fits well and works great.
Type of Leather
Different leather types have different qualities. Leathers that are full grain generally are stronger. chrome tased leathers can be softer and lighter. Faux leathers are made mostly from plastics, and thus are generally less expensive, while also being very water-resistant. For more details, click here for my article on all the different types of leather.
Custom Sizing
Most garments should fit well, in order to perform well. Some aprons come in a one-size-fits-all cut, while others come in individual sizes from Small through multiple-extra-large variations. Additionally, custom aprons can be made, where each element of the measurements and straps/ties will provide the wearer a near-perfect fit.
Tie Mechanisms
Different options are available for how aprons can be secured to the wearer, here are the most common ones:
Ties
Ties are usually the least expensive and most common option; these are strings or cords that wrap around and tie behind the waist.
Back Straps
The back strap variety has straps that go over the back, securing the apron over the shoulders. This helps distribute the weight across the back and can make heavier aprons more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Cross-Body System
The cross-body system for aprons provides for a way to secure the weight of the apron across the back. These usually come in Y-strap patterns, where straps come down from each shoulder, and attach at a single point towards the waist, and X-strap patterns, where the straps come down from each shoulder, cross in the middle of the back, and attach at two points towards the waist.
Cross body strap systems help make wearing very heavy aprons easier throughout the day, as the weight gets more comfortably spread across the shoulders. Additionally, cross-body systems are usually very-adjustable (via buckles and straps). This allows them to be set to fit different body types very well, as well as being able to adjust for the type of clothes the wearer has on.
In colder environments, heavy sweaters or jackets might be worn under an apron. In warmer environments, maybe just a t-shirt is worn. A cross-body system will allow the same apron to fit over any type of clothes being worn, allowing for comfortable and proper fit in any working environment.
Buckles
Aprons with buckles allow for easy adjustment. These can be present on the shoulder straps, neck strap, and around the waist.
Snaps
Snaps are another way aprons can be secured. Snaps can be present on the neck strap, shoulder straps, and on straps that secure the apron around the waist.
Construction Type
Different methods of construction are often utilized to make aprons. Some provide physical advantages, while others also allow for aesthetic variations.
Stitches
Stitching is the most common method, offering secure means of joining the apron pieces. Heavier threads, such as kevlar threads or heavy nylon threads, can be used that will be abrasion-resistant, and last longer.
Rivets
Rivets are a very strong way of joining material. Often seen on jeans, when used on leather aprons they form a very sturdy joining mechanism that is resistant to wear and can last for years of heavy use.
Length
Apron length is a factor to consider; shorter aprons are usually lighter and more comfortable. Longer aprons generally offer more protection and are a little heavier. Personal preference and type of working being done will often help guide choice in this area. For example, those working with heavy heat and sparks, such as welders, might prefer a longer leather apron that protects more of the body.

Blacksmith Near Anvil with Leather Apron
Where to Buy a Leather Apron?
When looking for a leather apron, there are a few popular locations that offer some helpful options. Let’s explore some of them here, some of the more popular leather apron brands.
WITLOFT Leather Apron
WITLOFT is an apron manufacturer based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. They make a variety of fine leather aprons, and offer custom options as well. The quality is usually that which should last well for years.
Leather Apron Home Depot
Home Depot does sell aprons, including a few varieties of leather work aprons. They are generally fairly priced, and since there are many Home Depot stores, commonly available locally if one is looking to get and use one of their aprons rather quickly.
Mahi Leather Apron
Mahi leather, based in Stamford, Lincolnshire, United Kingdom, offers a wide variety of leather aprons. They vary in style, pocket arrangement, and shape, providing options for selection based on intended working environment and use.
Lincoln Electric Leather Welding Apron
Lincoln Electric makes a popular and sturdy split-leather apron for welding. They are commonly available in various retailers online and in-person. These can be a solid option for welders and usually be locally available.
Leather by Dragonfly
Dragonfly is based on Strongsville, Ohio, USA, and produces a variety of goods including high-quality leather shop aprons. They come in a variety of leather weights and pocket configurations. This type of apron should generally last for years of use.
Pinnacle Leather Apron
Pinnacle makes leather shop aprons that are good for woodworking and variety of crafting needs. They offer adjustable shoulder straps, and are generally a high-quality, providing a reliable garment that should hold up for years of use.

Blacksmith Working with Leather Apron
Leather Apron DIY
Making a leather apron DIY is certainly an option for those that would like to craft one themselves. Let’s explore some helpful areas.
Leather Apron Pattern
A leather apron pattern can be used to lay over leather material and cut out the pieces necessary to assemble into the finished apron. Some apron patterns are for aprons that are sewn, and others are for no-sew leather aprons.
Once one has an idea of what type of apron they’d like to make, they can begin the often relatively easy search to find a pattern to work from. Those with interest or experience can even design their own leather apron pattern.
How do I make a shop apron?
Many handy folks are curious how to make a leather apron. A shop apron can be made by first determining what type of work it will be used for. This will help inform the overall shape, leather material type, pocket configuration, and strap arrangement type. Next, a pattern can be designed or obtained.
With materials and hardware purchased, one can begin construction. Cutting out material based on the pattern, then assembling the pieces using stitching or also common are rivets. Straps can be attached and adjusted, and a shop apron ready for everyday use. For a more detailed look, here is a helpful video demonstrating how to make a shop apron:
How much material do I need for an apron?
Generally, for an adult apron that includes enough material for pockets and and related loops accessories, approximately 2 yards of material would be needed. Often, it can be made with less, though having extra leather material can make the process easier. Often, the wide of material is 36”, so that’s roughly a 36” x 72” length of material.
What is the best fabric for an apron?
The best fabric for an apron will be that which ultimately combines utility, comfort, and lightness. For many types of work, leather is the best fabric for an apron. It provides a protective surface, water resistance, heat resistance, and can last for years and years of daily use, while being very comfortable and looking great.
How long should apron ties be?
In general, apron ties should be approximately 30”-36” in length. Width can vary based on preference, and strength of material being used for the ties. Specific length can vary too based on if they will be hand-tied, or will be fed through a belt or loop mechanism that will then help in securing the apron around the waist.
Leather Apron Related Topics
What is the difference between an apron and a pinafore?
An apron is a garment worn over other clothes, to provide protection, and can be made of a variety of material including cotton, canvas, and leather. A pinafore is an accessory, often made of cotton, that is sleeveless, intended to be work over other garments, and has an open back. They both perform similar functions. Pinafores can commonly be understood to be a type of apron, and was popular with women in the early 1900’s.
Women’s Leather Apron
Aprons are generally made such that they can be worn by either men or women. Some leather apron manufactures make aprons specifically for women, with unique styling and sizing. Depending on preference, a women might prefer an apron designed for women, or be totally comfortable wearing a common apron made for use and wearing by anyone.
Short Leather Apron
Short leather aprons, also known as half-aprons, are suitable for those that need protection only form the waist down. These can be most helpful, and stylish, in the food services industry and those work environments where partial coverage is all that’s needed from the apron. These can include pockets, and some allow additional accessories or loops to be attached.
Leather Apron Black
Leather aprons come in a variety of styles, sizes, and colors. Among the most popular colors beyond brown, is black. Black leather is great in that it can be used for many types of work and maintain it’s appearance (even when somewhat dirty). Also being easy to clean, if crafted from quality materials, a black leather apron can be very functional and also look great even with years of daily use.
Soft Leather Apron
Leather aprons can be made from many different types of leather. One of the key qualities to consider is the softness of the leather. Chrome-tanned leathers are usually softer than vegetable or oil tanned leathers. Also, thinner leathers can be softer, given they are thinner and more flexible than thicker leather. Conditioning leather can make it softer as well. Additionally, softer leathers can also be lighter, thus making them a great choice for light leather aprons that can be comfortable during all-day use.

Leathersmith Sewing Leather, Weraing a Leather Apron
Leather Apron Straps
Leather apron straps are a key part of leather aprons. They can help to distribute the weight of an apron, and any tools and accessories that are being stores in its loops and pockets, across the shoulders to make wearing the apron more comfortable. Let’s look at a few of the main types of leather apron straps:
Neck Loop
This is a common type of leather strap that simply goes around the neck to secure the apron in place. It can be fixed and sewn in place, or also adjustable with buckles or other mechanisms.
Ties
The ties generally wrap around the waist and are hand-tied in place. Other options include those that are adjusted with buckles or snaps, to help the wearer ensure a firm and comfortable fit.
Accessory Straps
Accessory straps for leather aprons are adjustable straps that can generally be added onto any existing aprons. They usually have clips or attachments that can fix onto existing aprons, thus allowing them to provide the ability to secure the apron to the wearer while also being able to be utilized on a variety of apron types and sizes.
X-Back Straps
X-back straps are usually part of a cross-body support system. These straps cross over the shoulders and attach at two points towards the waist, distributing the weight evenly across the shoulders and to the waist.
Y-Back Straps
Y-back straps are usually part of a cross-body support system for aprons, often heavier ones. These straps cross over the shoulders and attach at one points at the waist, distributing the weight evenly across the shoulders and down to the center of the waist.
The type selected will depend highly on the type of work being performed, and the personal preference of the wearer.
Depending on the type of work one does, a leather apron can be an excellent and enjoyable garment to have. Available in a variety of styles, leather types, and sizes, they can be purchased or even made DIY. Once one becomes a favorite, it will likely be an item happily used daily in the shop. If you’re interested in more shop items, click here for my article all about leather working tools, or here for my guide to protective leather gantlets.
Related Questions
What is a waist apron called?
Waist aprons are also called server aprons and half-aprons. They often provide coverage from the waist down to just above the knee, and include pockets for accessories. Often, waist aprons are worn by servers and those in the food services industry.
Do men wear aprons?
Yes, men wear aprons, common in blacksmithing, welding, woodworking, cooking, gardening, leather working, butchering, and barbecuing. Aprons for men are available in a variety of styles, materials, and for many different work and shop functions.
Other Resources:
- Leather Clothing – Excellent Selections for Your Wardrobe
- The Leather Armor Guide to Styles, Weight, Options, and Fit
- Studded Leather Armor – Its History, Styles, and Uses
- Leather Armor 5e – Effective Choices, Costs, and Classes
- Viking Leather Armor – The History, Styles, and Appeal
- Female Leather Armor – History, Sizing, and Styles for Anyone
- Leather Jerkin – Characteristics of This Classic Clothing