Tool bags are the norm for carpenters, of course. But in my years working on jobsites, I switched to a tool vest; the bags were always in my way and, at times, caused me hip pains. (Check Occidental Suspendavest if you are looking to get away from hip rigs.)
Now that I’ve moved into more shop-based work (I just built a shop on my property), the vest is overkill. Plus, the iconic images of woodworkers seem to always show them wearing aprons. So, I needed an apron. At about the time I was wrapping up the structure of my shop, an apron maker based out of South Carolina was making a splash on Instagram. Calavera Tool Works (instagram.com/calaveratool) was showing up all over my feed. Also, it seemed like all the cool guys (can you say Jory Brigham?) were wearing them while praising their quality. Yes, I definitely needed an apron.
Nathan Rinne
Out of the box: I instantly loved this leather, high-quality apron.
Nathan Rinne
The stitching and hardware are robust.
Until then, I was planning on buying a regular, cheap tweed-style apron, as that was all I had seen available. Calaveras are leather—and some are bison leather. So besides offering a durability advantage, they looked authentic … and, well, just awesome.
I struck up a conversation with the owner, Michael, and learned quite a bit of his backstory. Turns out, he spent time working for Bostitch and Bosch, ultimately landing the job of vice president of marketing and product management at Festool, a job he would have for eight years. So, at this point I’m thinking he knows the ins and outs of customer service, quality control, and the value of standing behind your product.
Nathan Rinne
There are certain hand tools I must have on me at all times, and the Calavera holds them all nicely.
Nathan Rinne
The chest sleeves and waist storage rock. Just right for the stuff I carry in the shop.
What’s more, this is legitimately a small start-up business being run by a guy with a bunch of personality and the drive to make a name for himself. I knew I’d need to get one of his aprons almost on the story alone. [Editor’s Note: Check out Nathan’s review of the also-small-company Castle pocket hole jig.]
When the box arrived, I found the apron wrapped in a bit of paper with a note saying “I hope you love it,” signed by Michael. He was right in seconds: After I unwrapped it, I immediately loved it.
It wasn’t as heavy as I thought it would be, which, in my book, is a good thing. I have enough shoulder, neck, and back problems as it is. The stitching is heavy and the pockets ample. The clasps and rings are excellent quality and are integrated seamlessly into the design.
Nathan Rinne
Nathan Rinne
This apron is of extremely high quality, is lighter than I expected, and is comfortable to work in all day.
Having used it now for several months, I find its pockets to be ample for carrying all the hand tools I need for the day. I typically have a small hand plane, several pencils, a few squares, and a tape that need to be on my person at all times. Otherwise, I spend too much time searching for them. The fit and finish are both smooth. At times, I hardly notice I’m wearing it. Maybe most importantly, it’s in no way restrictive to my movements at all; that is critical.
In general, I find the apron to be of a superb quality, and the handmade and leather cool factors are just off the charts. I believe this apron will be the only one I ever need and will be in service in my shop for decades to come.
Calavera Tool Works Leather Work Apron
Cost: $180 to $300
