Easy to follow instructions on making an apron.  Good first project for a child.

Lessons: Hemming, Gathering and Putting on a band

Object: To teach gathering and putting on a band.
Materials: Gingham 7 x 7 inches; thread and needle

1. Baste and hem a hem 1/8″ on each side of the apron. Across the bottom of the apron make a hem 3/4″ inches deep. Fold the apron to find the middle, notching it at the top, take onto the needle as many small running stitches as possible.
2. Draw the stitches together on the needle and fasten the thread by winding it over and under the eye and point of the needle.
3. Hold the gathers between the thumb and finger of the left hand, and with the other pull each gather in place.
4. Unwind the thread and pull the needle through.
5. Repeat with each needleful.
6. Place the notch to the middle of the band and spread the gathers so that they will cover a space 3 1/2″ wide.
7. Holding the gathers toward you, baste and then half back stitch them to the band.
8. Fold over the band so as to cover the gathers and turn in the edges.
9. When basted, overhand the end and edges of the band, but hem it down across the gathers.

For assistance in using the hand sewing techniques visit this link.

Books about aprons