Japanese Cross-Back Apron - Brown

Japanese apron with crossed straps, 100% cotton, brown with polka dots

With its crossed straps at the back, this Japanese apron distributes its weight across the shoulders: no more drawstrings tugging at the nape of your neck after a long session at the hob. The polka dots are not printed but woven directly into the fabric using the dobby technique, a speciality of the weavers of Kurume in southern Japan. The pattern therefore does not fade in the wash, and the fabric retains a slightly textured, soft-to-the-touch feel.

Its two large pockets can hold an oven glove, pruning shears or paintbrushes, depending on whether you’re spending the afternoon at the worktop, in the vegetable patch or at your easel. For a friend who’s passionate about baking or a mum who loves Japanese cuisine, it’s a practical gift that can be worn well beyond the kitchen.