The Story Behind the Aprons

Sweetpea Punkin Rose began with a simple joy: time in the kitchen with my daughter and her toddler friends, playing “kitchen” and dreaming up imaginative adventures. A gift I received of a charming pinafore apron during those early days added a kind of magic that has stayed with me ever since. That apron—now over 35 years old—still stirs up wonder and memories every time I see it.

Over time, what started as creative sewing “play” turned into a deeper love for making fabric art that feels meaningful and useful. At SweetPea Punkin Rose, I create aprons as wearable, functional art—pieces meant to bring joy to everyday rituals, whether shared with others or experienced alone. Thoughtfully designed and carefully stitched, each apron is made to be worn, used, and lived in, adding charm and comfort to moments of cooking, gathering, serving, or enjoying a quiet meal at home.

My work is inspired by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest—flora, stones, trees, and the trails around my home in Issaquah—as well as by fine art, particularly the color, movement, and emotion found in Impressionist painters like Monet and Van Gogh. Food and drink play an essential role in my creative language, from the warmth of shared meals to the simple pleasure of cooking for oneself. Vineyards, markets, the artistry of chefs like Jacques Pépin, and the playful spirit of Dr. Seuss all influence my use of pattern, color, and textures. Seasonal shifts—especially the burst of spring in the Puget Sound and the camaraderie of fall and winter holidays—shape my palettes and designs.

I work primarily with cotton fabrics, creating fabric collages for my pinafore aprons and the coordinating of mixed colors and patterns in my reversible wrap styles. Each pinafore is lined with upcycled vintage sheets sourced from Puget Sound thrift shops, adding a hidden layer of color, softness, and sustainability.

Through color, texture, and movement, my aprons explore the idea that art does not have to be precious to be meaningful. These pieces are meant for solo cooking, quiet evenings in, and joyful gatherings alike—where use, stains, and wear become part of the story, holding memories of both shared moments and personal rituals.

Based in Issaquah, Washington, I was honored to be selected as one of eight businesses in the 2025 Home Grown Retail Program. I had successful market days as part of this program and in addition to selling online, I work to bring my art into the community through small business markets.

Enjoy finding the perfect apron - made just for you or to gift someone special.