When it comes to taking on home projects, there are some inevitable truths. You will make multiple trips to the hardware store. You will likely have to watch the same tutorial or read the same instructions repeatedly. You will probably get some kind of small injury like a paper cut or stubbed thumb that hurts as much as a broken leg (why do the small injuries hurts so much?). And you will very likely misplace your tools. That’s why you need a tool apron.
We can’t help you with the first few issues, but when it comes to misplacing your tools we do have a solution. Tool aprons are an item we often only think of being used by professional blacksmiths or woodworkers, but they should be a must-have for anyone who does work around the home. With low price points and high usability, tool aprons are about to become your favorite DIY project assistant.
If you plan on doing any kind of project that requires tools, having your measuring tape, screwdrivers, hammer, nails, and level within arms’ reach can make a tough job much easier. There’s nothing worse than finally locating the stud in your wall and realizing that your pencil for marking, hammer for hitting, and nail for hanging are on the other side of the room.
Even if you’re not planning on doing any heavy-duty DIY projects, tool aprons are still great for working around the house. Waterproof options are ideal for planting spring flowers, with longer aprons protecting your knees from the soil and keeping work gloves and shovels on your body. Crafters can also benefit from tool aprons, which not only protect their clothes from paint and glue but also keep all of their small tools in one place. Tool aprons are even great for cleaning the house, with tons of pockets making it easy to move through rooms with microfiber cloths, cleaning sprays, sponges and more.
Which tool apron is best for you? Check our great options below and get to work!
1. EcoZen Shop Apron
Handcrafted from 16 oz. waxed canvas and made with reinforced grommets and rivets, double-stitched tool pockets for added strength and durability and thick top and bottom hems, the EcoZen Shop Apron is a heavy-duty option built for the toughest DIY projects. Our team loves that the apron is flexible and moves with you, good news for anyone who has to bend, stretch, or move quickly while working on their project. With two adjustable clasps in the mid-back and waist, the apron evenly distributes weight and doesn’t pull on your neck, which is good news if you like to load up your apron with heavy tools.
Pros: The apron comes with a specially designed cell phone pocket that can fit any phone up to an iPhone 8, keeping it safe and handy for when you need to watch that DIY tutorial one more time.
Cons: The straps can be difficult to adjust.
2. NoCry Professional Canvas Work Apron
With 16 pockets for holding tools and padded shoulder, neck and waist straps, the NoCry is a great option for a variety of DIY projects. The apron is ergonomically designed to help distribute weight evenly across the shoulders, which is good news for people who like the load up their apron with tools. Made from 600D Oxford Canvas, the apron has a waterproof exterior that makes it suitable for wearing while cleaning. A variety of pocket sizes provides spaces for small and large tools and bottles.
Pros: The bib-style one size fits all apron features straps that can be adjusted to fit XXS to XXL.
Cons: The apron is not flame retardant and can’t be machine washed, which is important to note depending on your project.
3. Hudson Durable Goods Heavy Duty Waxed Canvas Work Apron
For an apron that can keep up with big projects, we recommend the Hudson Durable Goods Heavy Duty Waxed Canvas Work Apron. The full coverage apron is made with water-resistant, durable 16 oz waxed canvas. Gun-metal grommets and rivets, double stitching on the tool pockets and extra-thick hems all combine to make an apron that is built to last. An accessories pocket for a phone and pen is on the top corner of the apron and larger tool pockets are placed lower down. The apron features a hanging hammer loop around the back and a cross-back strap design for added comfort.
Pros: A kangaroo-style hand pocket hits the midline of the apron and provides a comfortable resting spot for hands.
Cons: The apron is recommended for users who are 5’2” and taller.