Sometimes the tiniest detail can have a dramatic effect on the way something looks. This is something we have learnt over the years at Impact Trading and Cotton Roots. Our production and design team pride themselves on accuracy and detail which gives our customers the confidence to come back to us over and over again.
These details are something that the design team can offer when developing aprons. For example, a plain apron can be given an industrial look by adding rivets, poppers or eyelets. Tiny accents of colour can be added with coloured bar tacks or contrast stitching or bindings. Leather or suede straps can give a feel of quality and nostalgia to an apron.
If you want your apron to really stand out, then interesting fastenings like poppers, dungaree clips or toggles can be a real talking point.
To see some of the details we have used in the past have a look at some of our aprons
When deciding which fabrics to use for our bespoke aprons, the two main choices are canvas or twill. So, what are these weaves and how do they differ?
Canvas
The yarn most used for canvas is cotton. It is a simple plain weave, which means that the warp and weft are woven in a pattern of “over one, under one.” A double filled canvas uses two yarns in the “over under” instead of one.
Generally, canvas uses much heavier threads than other cotton fabrics and so the combination of the plain weave and heavier threads creates a strong fabric that is resistant to snagging, tears and abrasion. The simple, rustic style of the canvas weave is also attractive and combined with it durable qualities, makes it ideal for our aprons.
Close up image of canvas fabric
Twill
Twill describes the weave design, which is more complex. The weave consists of going over one yarn and under two or three. The weave then moves across each row to create a diagonal effect. These diagonal lines are called a ‘wale’. The most common type of weave is a 2/2 twill, which is two warps crossing every two weft threads.
Twill is very tough. It is basically a plain weave with extra yarns added at intervals for extra strength. This makes its very difficult to tear. One big difference between a canvas and twill is that a canvas is reversible, there is no visible difference between the front and back and this allows for more flexibility when cutting the fabric. Twill has a different front and back. The ‘wale’ pattern being the front. Jeans are probably the most common example of a twill weave.
Close up image of twill fabric
Conclusion
Whilst canvas fabrics are simple and very durable. Twills are a more complex version, and the appearance is more sophisticated.
Both are perfect for aprons or, in fact any workwear garment. Twill adds that extra bit of interest and durability. The durability will always depend on the fabric weight. A canvas that is 300 grams will be stronger than a 200 grams Twill.
About 6 months ago, Liz from the design team came upstairs to the office to show us a new prototype apron she had made from striped navy and white denim with red straps. I jumped up in excitement because I immediately fell in love with it. I’m always one for a stripe, especially one that gives a nautical feel. This, along with a pop of colour from the red strap had me completely smitten!
Liz, seeing my excitement, offered to let me try it on and once I was strapped into it. I realised that although I loved the look, the actual brilliance of this apron is the cross back which makes it fit like a glove. I never really appreciated that the cross back, as well as creating a stylish look, is a fantastic way to make a standard apron fit all sizes of people. The cross back allows the straps to shorten and lengthen at the neck which means all heights are catered for, this also applies to the width which accommodates all body shapes and most importantly makes it really comfortable to wear, almost like a dress.
For restaurants, cafes and hotels with a number of staff, cross back aprons are definitely the way to go to suit everyone.
If you are looking for something really unique that makes your brand stand out, apron straps are a great way to make an impression. At Impact Trading and Cotton Roots we are constantly developing new styles with different fabrics and material and colours to fit with our customer’s branding and to create inspiration for new customers.
Customers can choose stock webbing that’s plain or striped, to completely bespoke webbing that can be printed with a particular image or design. You can even have bespoke webbing that is woven in your brand colours. If webbing isn’t your cup of tea you can have self-fabric straps, which are made from the same fabric as the apron, or a completely different colour or type of fabric to add a little bit of texture or contrast.
Some more unusual options are leather straps which are often made detachable so that they can be removed when washing the apron. If you like the look of leather but need it to be more practical and washable, a faux suede can be used instead which gives you the industrial look. Extra little details include choices from a range of neck sliders, both metal and plastic and adding contrast stitching, bar tacks, studs or poppers.
As well as a choice of interesting fabrics and materials for your apron and straps, you can also choose the style of straps and apron you want. Standard bib aprons either with or without adjustable straps are a very popular choice, but cross back straps, waist aprons or a completely bespoke design are also available for you to choose from.
We have recently had the honour of working with Maggie from the Michelin star restaurant, The Waterside Inn, in Bray which is run by chef patron Alain Roux.
They were looking for a bespoke, made in Britain apron to sell in the restaurant gift shop and came to Impact Trading with a strong idea of what they wanted. Our design team began transforming the sketch they sent to us full of their bespoke ideas, into a reality.
Every component and detail was thought out, sampled and put together. The apron includes woven labels, printed logo, webbing and a beautifully embroidered motto “Taste, season, taste again”. The navy Pantone colour has been matched throughout, and coordinates perfectly with pastel blue of the apron.
Michel, Alain and Maggie were delighted with the results so the Roux apron went into production here at Impact Trading which is based on the edge of Milton Keynes on beautiful Rose Lane Farm.
The team at Impact Trading loved working on these aprons as they had unique features, such as the embroidery which is much wider than anything we would normally embroider. The aprons also had a many elements which required precise detail, for example the top stitching for the pen pocket within the larger pocket.
Alain and Michel proudly wearing their aprons
These bespoke aprons made by Impact Trading in Britain are available to buy from the Waterside Inn online shop here
For a long time hospitality wear has remained very stagnant, traditional black trousers and skirts, white shirts and blouses were the simple, go to outfit.
I remember as a student I worked as a waitress casually for a catering company and also in a cafe and restaurant, for each job it was a staple items in my wardrobe. For employers it was an easy uniform option, something that staff would already have or could easily get.
In the last few years at Impact Trading and Cotton Roots we have a noticed a big change, both in office wear and hospitality uniform. Office wear has started to move away from suits and ties to smart trouser and open collar shirts. Dress down Friday is becoming common place in many offices and branding and web agencies actively encourage relaxed and individual clothing in order to create an inspirational environment.
Hoteliers and restaurateurs have also started to realise that uniform plays a significant part in the overall branding and is an important part of the experience for customers.
Bespoke Denim Apron with Faux Suede Cross Back Straps
At the moment we are noticing a huge trend towards an
industrial feel in restaurants and hotels. Lots of hard surfaces in different textures
such at concrete, wood and metal. The uniforms
reflect the industrial revolution era with braces, flat caps, waistcoats which then
have a modern twist of jeans and chinos to go with them.
Hard wearing fabrics such as canvas, denim and leather feature
heavily within this look.
This break away from the conservative traditions of black and white means that staff uniforms and venues can really stand out from the crowd and provide customers with a completely immersive experience.
For more information on branded uniform and bespoke aprons please call Impact Trading on 01908 511395 or email [email protected]
We have been so busy producing our ‘Made in Britain’ Aprons! They are fast becoming one of our most popular products.
‘Made in Britain’ Apron
Made in Britain Aprons are the perfect accompaniment to any product that is produced or grown in the U.K. What better way to promote your product than wearing an apron made in a british factory.
Our ‘Made in Britain’ labels
We have supplied a wide range of bespoke aprons in all kinds of colours and styles. The great thing about bespoke is you can create a unique look. There all kinds of ways you can add a unique touch, whether it be the fabric, the branding or the straps.
A key advantage for producing in Britain is a quick turn-around time. We are able to action changes and develop samples more quickly. The design process is easier, we can develop ideas and see the results within a few weeks.
We are very keen to support British businesses and the growing trend for British based manufacturing.
Horatio’s Garden apron
The Horatio’s Garden apron was particularly nice to work on. It is such a great charity and one we are proud to have been involved with.
Amy’s Kitchen
The aprons we produced for Amy’s Kitchen were also made using fabric produced in Britain.
Amy’s Kitchen
Applying the embroidery
Our in-house embroidery machines allow us to produce embroideries quickly and efficiently. We can tweak and perfect the colours and positioning as we go along. Our production team have a great eye for detail.
There are all kinds of ways to make our aprons unique. Our customers want something different that will set them apart from the rest. We are always on the look out for new ideas. For Balans restaurants eyelets were used, to great effect!
