Leading Canvas Aprons Buying Guide
In recent years, aprons have broken the gender/vocation stereotype. They are now worn by both males and females, painters woodworkers, or chefs. Canvas aprons are made specifically for anyone that works with wood. Durable woodworking aprons of high quality have become trendy in different vocations.
As a woodworking professional, deciding on your canvas apron can be quite overwhelming. After all, this is what you will wear for a good number of hours in a day. This is why we have created a buying guide to help narrow your search for the best canvas aprons.
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Canvas Apron
Type of material
The type of material used is very essential because it is what determines the longevity of the apron. Good aprons are made with leather, canvas, and they are the best materials for a woodworking apron. Most canvas aprons are made with a mix of cotton and leather. While style may top your list, the material used is even more important because a good material is stain-resistant and protects you from sawdust and cuts. It’s also important to consider a high-quality material because a durable material will make for a durable apron. If you spend a little more money upfront on a durable apron, you won’t have to replace it as soon as you wood a cheap one.
Weight distribution
Woodwork is stressful enough without adding the weight of a heavy apron. It is imperative to check the fit to see how the canvas woodworking apron distributes weight before purchasing it. Some aprons feature a cross-back strap, adjustable strap, and adjustable waist, that help the even-out weight distribution. Custom aprons will have the best weight distribution possible, but standard apron designs have evolved to become incredibly evenly distributed as well.
Size
This covers the height of the wearer. An easy tip is to select an apron that is at least 23 inches in width and height. Should you be over 6 feet, it is advisable to go for a fit that is over 30 inches in width and height. Custom aprons will be made to fit your exact size, and therefore will be the most comfortable.
Pockets
Pockets are a must-have when choosing a canvas apron for woodwork. While working, you will need spaces to keep your tools. Pockets come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some aprons for woodwork feature a specific pocket for your phone. It is recommended to get an apron with as many pockets as possible. Be sure that the pockets have double stitching and riveting so they don’t tear when you place your tools in. Custom aprons can have as many or as few pockets as you wish.
Style
Canvas aprons are now a fashion statement so you have to look your part. The style refers to the texture and overall appearance of the apron. Cotton canvas aprons have a suede-like feel and look attractive. Leather and waxed canvas aprons have a rugged feeling. It all depends on your preference. For instance, the cross-back canvas apron design is a style you may like.
Comfort
Being comfortable in your canvas apron is very important. Some canvas aprons offer a padded shoulder feature that brings convenience to the wearer. Waxed canvas material tends to be a little more breathable than leather. You can also buy custom aprons. Custom aprons will be completely personalized to you and will fit your specific measurements. However, custom aprons are much more expensive than standard aprons.
Features To Look Out for When Choosing Canvas Aprons
Cross-back straps – This feature prevents neck strain by distributing the weight of the apron around your shoulders and back. These straps can be in the form of buckles or tied. Cross back straps on custom aprons will be perfectly suited to your size; in standard aprons, they are likely adjustable.
Waterproof – Just as the name implies, this feature means the apron is resistant to water. Aprons that are thick and of high quality are usually waterproof. A more durable apron should be waterproof, or at least water-resistant.
Magnet pocket – This thoughtful feature is a pocket to which metallic tools are attracted.
Shoulder padding – This is especially important for professional woodworkers who stay in the workshop all day. The straps of the apron are padded with soft material to reduce tension. It is a very important feature for comfort.
Double-stitched pocket – Pockets that are double stitched last longer and do not wear and tear easily. The pockets last even longer when metal rivets are fixed on them.
Split-bottom – This is an apron design that allows for proper leg movement. It also makes it easier to bend while wearing the apron without pushing it away.
Dust flap – These are built within pockets to keep flying particles like sawdust, away from your tools placed in the apron pockets.
Tape measure clip – This is a tape holder that keeps your tape measure secure on your apron.
How Do I Care for Canvas Aprons?
Waxed aprons
Waxed aprons must only be hand-washed. Machine wash, bleaching, excessive scrubbing, hot water, can ruin your waxed apron. Instead, hand wash the apron following these tips:
For spot-cleaning:
- Dampen a rag and scrub gently on the stained area.
- Use a very gentle soap that will not break down the wax.
- Rinse out the soap with lukewarm water.
- Hang and air-dry.
- Store in a dry place.
For deep-cleaning:
- Submerge the apron fully in a sink or tub full of lukewarm water.
- Clean stained spots gently with a rag and all-natural soap.
- Rinse out the soap with lukewarm water.
- Hang and air-dry.
This video from Fake It or Make It shows you how to safely clean a waxed apron without damaging it:
Cotton aprons
Cotton aprons are preferably hand-washed but follow these tips to wash with a machine.
- Always machine-wash separately to avoid the color bleeding out.
- Never mix with color garments.
- Dry with low heat only to avoid shrinkage.
- Remove once you’re done and hang.
- Air-dry.
Leather aprons
- Dampen a rag and wipe clean the soiled area.
- Use a gentle soap if necessary.
- Hang and air-dry.
What Are the Benefits of Canvas Aprons?
Protection – Good aprons are waterproof, stain-resistant, and protect against spills. Cuts are less likely to occur when wearing a high-quality canvas apron.
Style – Canvas aprons give you a little edge in woodworking fashion. They help you look like a pro in your work.
Handy – The pockets are great for keeping all your tools at your fingertips. You don’t need to run around for a tool once you have an apron.
Cleanliness – They help to maintain a clean workspace and a clean you.
Efficient – Canvas aprons increase your speed in carrying out tasks.
Durable – A good choice of apron is durable and can last for a very long time.
