Introduction: What to Do With Worn Out Coveralls

About: I am the co-director, co-founder and lead instructor for the Customs for Urban Teens Program (CUT Program). Started in 2009 we take at risk youth and teach them how to build custom cars. I am a journeyman mach…

I have a pair of worn out coveralls ( and maybe a little small now after the xmas season). After spending almost 100 bucks on them i did not want to throw them away.
Inspiration hit me at 5am while I was feeding my infant son on the sofa in the dark.....
A man apron for working in the shop!!!

Step 1: Supplies and Stuff

Tools and supplies:
old coveralls
scissors
needle and thread or sewing machine
iron
ironing board
chalk
time.....of course

Step 2: Decide Where to Cut

Now you need to decide where to cut said coveralls. I wanted to do as little sewing as possible so I chose to cut on the OUTSIDE of all seams possible. This needs a little planning but finished result is way less work!!
The shoulder straps must also be cut. I chose to at the end of the elastic part.

Step 3: Start Slicing!!

Start cutting up your coveralls. Take your time and cut close to seams. Make sure you cut to leave seams on the apron. Like I said way less work.
It should start looking like an apron now.

Step 4: Flatten and Stitch

Flatten out the crotch seam. It will have a bit of ugly overlap inside. Once stitched cut off all the extra material behind the seam you just made.
Also stitch together the straps. They should look like the photo.

Step 5: Iron and Hem

I think these are the first pair of coveralls to be ironed!! Any way iron the bottom seam so it is straight . Now is time to sew the hem. If you cannot do this yourself ask your mom/wife to help. Not a needed step but will look and last better.
If sewing is not option most craft/fabric stores sell iron on hems!!!

Step 6: The Back Strap

So we need a back strap. I wanted to use as much of the coveralls as possible. This could be done with cordage of some sort but we have the pieces with the factory buttons so why not.
Pick a spot to cut the back panel
Iron flat as can be
Sew or use your iron on hems

Step 7: Conclusion

Now your old friends have a new life. I think these will be handy for all shop life. Woodworking, metal fab and such. As all the pockets are intact ( the reason we all wear these ) and the material is tough as nails this should serve us well.
All left over material will be kept for patches for my in service coveralls thus making their life a little longer as well.
Hope this inspired. Enjoy!!!

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