Cut Low Backs In T-Shirts: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to cut low back in t shirt

There are many ways to cut a low back into a T-shirt. For example, you can cut the collar off at the seam, or cut the entire collar off and create a scoop neck by cutting the front collar lower. You can also cut the back of the shirt into a V shape, or cut horizontal slashes in the back of the shirt to create a simple shape such as a heart.

Characteristics Values
Tools Sharp scissors, washable chalk or pen, measuring tape, fabric glue (optional), needle and thread (optional)
Preparation Turn the shirt inside out and lay it on a flat surface with the front facing up
Cutting technique Cut the neckline, decide on the shape of the "V", cut thin strips about a finger's width, stretch the strips, and weave them together
Weaving technique Take the second strip and put it under and over the first strip. Still holding the second strip, take the third strip and place it under and over the second strip. Continue to the bottom
Tying technique When holding the last loop at the bottom of the "V", cut the loop in half and double-knot both ends to the previous loop

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Cut a V-neck

Transforming a crew neck into a v-neck is a simple process that can be done with or without sewing. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cut a v-neck in a t-shirt:

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

To cut a v-neck, you will need the following materials: a crew neck shirt, a ruler or measuring tape, stick pins, a fabric marker, fabric scissors, and a seam ripper. If you plan on sewing the collar back on, you will also need thread that matches the colour of your shirt, as well as a sewing machine or sewing needle.

Step 2: Measure the V-neck Depth

Lay a V-neck shirt that you already own over the t-shirt you plan to cut. This will serve as a guide to help you determine the desired depth of the V-neck. Mark the spot where you want the point of the V to be with a pin. Alternatively, you can eyeball the depth of the V-neck, being conservative in your estimate as you can always make the V deeper later.

Step 3: Fold the T-shirt

Lay your t-shirt face down on a table and fold it in half vertically, ensuring that the neckline, shoulders, and arms are aligned. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases.

Step 4: Trace the V-neck Outline

Using a ruler, make a diagonal line from the point where the collar meets the shoulder seam to the middle of the chest. Mark this point with your fabric marker, then draw a line connecting the mark to the shoulder seam. Repeat this step on the other side of the shirt.

Step 5: Remove Stitches (Sewing Method Only)

If you plan on sewing the collar back on, unfold your t-shirt and turn it inside out. Lay it flat with the front side facing you. Using a seam ripper, carefully cut through the stitches connecting the collar to the shirt, starting at one shoulder seam and working your way to the other. Make sure to leave the collar attached to the back of the shirt.

Step 6: Cut Along the V-neck Outline

With your shirt still inside out, fold the front of the collar backwards, away from the front of the shirt. This will help ensure a smoother and straighter cut. Starting at one side of the V-neck outline, carefully cut along the marked line, being careful to only cut through the front side of the shirt. Stop cutting when you reach the point of the V, then repeat this process on the other side.

Step 7: Cut the Detached Collar (Sewing Method Only)

Lay your t-shirt flat with the front side facing you. Measure the length of the collar and mark the middle with your fabric marker. Cut through the collar at this point.

Step 8: Stretch the Collar (Sewing Method Only)

To make the collar reach your new neckline, gently tug and pull each side of the collar downwards towards the V point to lengthen it. Most t-shirt collars are made of ribbed fabric, which stretches easily. If your collar doesn't reach all the way to the point of the V, you may need to purchase matching ribbed fabric from a craft store.

Step 9: Pin and Sew the Collar (Sewing Method Only)

Hold your shirt taut and stretch one side of the collar along the length of the V, pinning it in place about every 1 inch (2.5 cm). Repeat this process on the other side of the V. Use a sewing machine or needle and thread to sew the collar in place, about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) away from the rough edges of the collar and neckline. Sew from the top of the collar to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the V point.

No-Sew Option:

If you prefer not to sew the collar back on, simply unfold your shirt and cut along the V-neck outline on the front side, being careful to only cut through the front layer of fabric. Then, cut under the seam to remove the back of the collar, and you're done! You can also pull on the neckline to roll the edges and hide any ragged ends.

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Create a racerback tank

Racerback tank tops are a popular garment to work out in. The armholes are cut wider in the back than in the front, which means that sweat won't accumulate on your shoulders as much. While you can always buy one from the store, making one is much cheaper. Not only will you give an old t-shirt a new lease of life, but you can also create a design that you like!

Step 1: Choose a T-Shirt

Find a t-shirt that is 1 to 2 sizes larger than what you normally wear. The t-shirt can be blank or it can have a design in the front. Do not use a fitted shirt or the racerback will turn out too small.

The t-shirt needs to be at least the length you want the racerback to be. Remember, you can always cut it shorter, but you can't make it longer!

Step 2: Cut the Sleeves

Cut the sleeves off to make the t-shirt a tank top. Begin cutting 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) below the armpit and finish cutting just inside the top shoulder seam. Do the left sleeve first, then fold the shirt in half lengthwise, and use the cut edge as a guide for the right sleeve.

You can cut the sleeves even lower if you want to. Keep in mind that you'll want to wear a tank top or a bandeau underneath your new racerback to avoid any peek-a-bras!

Step 3: Cut the Back Armholes

Flip the shirt over and cut the back of the arm holes wider. Turn the shirt over so that the back is facing you. Begin cutting at the back of the shirt at the armpit of your first sleeve. Scoop down 1⁄2 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm), then cut in towards the centre by about 2 inches (5.1 cm). Finish cutting at the top of the original cut edge.

Make sure that you are only cutting through the back of the shirt, not the front.

Step 4: Cut the Collar

Flip the shirt over so that you can see the front again. Cut the entire collar off at the stitching. Start at the left shoulder and work your way around the front of the shirt towards the right. Work your way around the back of the shirt and finish at the left shoulder again.

For a more feminine touch, cut the front of the collar about 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) below the stitching to make it larger.

Step 5: Cut the Back

Flip the shirt over so that you can see the back. Cut straight across the back of the shirt, 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) below the collar. Start at the left armhole and finish at the right armhole. This will separate the top of the shirt from the bottom.

Make sure that you are only cutting through the back of the shirt and not the front.

Step 6: Cut the Corners

The bottom edges of your collar will have corners from when you cut across the back of the shirt. If you want to, cut these corners off to make the back part more rounded and blend in with the rest of the collar.

Step 7: Cut the Bottom Hem

You don't have to do this, but it will complete the raw-edged look. Simply cut along the bottom hem of the shirt, right at the stitching. Start at one seam and work your way around the bottom of the shirt until you are back to where you started.

Step 8: Cut Vertical Slits

By now, you should have a rectangular strip of fabric in the back of your shirt. You need to turn this rectangle into 3 equal-sized strands in order to make your braid. Cut 2 slits into the rectangle, starting at the top, and finishing at about armpit level.

Make the 2 slits an equal distance from each other and the side edges of the rectangular strip. This way, all 3 strands will be the same thickness.

If you want to make a 4-strand braid, cut 3 slits. If you want to make a 5-strand braid, then cut 4 slits.

Step 9: Pull the Strands

Gently pull on each of the 3 strands. This will cause the cut edges of the fabric to curl inward and make them easier to braid. It will also make the strands longer, which is a good thing. Braids end up shorter than the strands used to create them. If you don't stretch the strands out, the braid will end up too short.

Step 10: Braid the Strands

Braid the strands by crossing the outer ones over the middle one. Cross the left strand over the middle strand, then cross the right strand over the new middle strand. Repeat these steps until you have about 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) of fabric left.

Turn the shirt so that the collar is facing you. It will be easier to braid the strands if they are pointing down rather than up.

If you made a 4-strand or 5-strand braid, then you'll need to braid them accordingly.

Step 11: Sew the Braid

Sew the end of your braid to keep it together. You can do this by hand or on a sewing machine. You don't need any fancy stitching; a simple straight stitch or running stitch will do.

The colour of the thread does not matter here. You'll be covering it up later.

If you don't know how to sew, glue the strands together with fabric glue. Let the glue dry before moving on, about 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 12: Attach the Braid

Fold the back collar in half to find the centre. Set your braid aside

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Cut the shirt into a crop top

There are many ways to cut a T-shirt into a crop top, and it's a fun way to upgrade old shirts that no longer fit or are simply in need of a new look. Here is a step-by-step guide to cutting a T-shirt into a crop top:

Preparation:

Before you start cutting, decide how short you want the shirt to be. Then, gather the necessary tools: a pair of sharp scissors, a pen or washable chalk to mark the fabric, and a measuring tape. Place the T-shirt on a flat surface, smoothing it out completely.

Cutting the Crop Top:

Using the measuring tape, measure out where you want the new hem to hit. If you want a more precise cut, mark the desired length on each side of the shirt with the pen or chalk. Start cutting on one side, ensuring that you are cutting in a straight line towards the other mark. Once you have cut off the desired length, stretch out the new hem with your fingers to give it a more worn-in effect.

Optional Finishing Touches:

If the sleeves are bulky, you can shorten them by cutting off the trim. For an even more distressed look, gently pull along all the cut edges to make the fabric curl and conceal any jaggedness. If you want to create a racerback style, cut the collar off at the stitching, starting from the front-left side and working your way around to the back.

And that's it! You now have a stylish new crop top.

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Create a knotted shirt

There are many ways to create a knotted shirt, and it's a great way to make your tops fit better and add an interesting detail to an outfit. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a knotted shirt:

Choose the Right T-Shirt:

Start with a plain oversized T-shirt, preferably one with a slight stretch to it. You can also use a T-shirt that is a few sizes too big for a different look. The length of the shirt doesn't matter as you will be cutting it.

Prepare the T-Shirt:

If you want a larger collar, cut through both layers of fabric, using the front collar's seam as a guide. Cut about 1 inch wider than the original neckline for a round neck, and 1.5-2 inches wider for a wide, boat neck or off-the-shoulder neckline. If you don't want a larger collar, cut all the way around the collar from the left shoulder to the right and back again.

Cut the Bottom Hem:

Spread the shirt out on a flat surface and cut straight across the bottom. Cut above the stitching on the hem if you like the length, or make it shorter if you prefer.

Determine the Width of the Shirt:

Decide how tight you want the shirt to be. Measure your waist and divide that number by 2, then add 3 inches to get the width of the ties. Mark this measurement on your shirt at waist level, centering it and making sure the tape is centered.

Cut the Sides:

Begin cutting at the bottom corner of the left hem, right next to the side seam, and finish cutting at the shoulder seam. Curve the line inward as you cut so that it touches the mark you made. Repeat this process for the right side. If you want some sleeves, finish cutting 1-2 inches away from the shoulder seam.

Cut Slits:

Cut evenly spaced slits into the side of the shirt, from the hem to the armpit. Make these slits about 1/2 to 1 inch wide. If you want a super tight shirt, make the slits 3 inches long. For a fitted but loose look, cut the slits 1 1/2 inches long.

Tie the Strands:

Tie the strands in the front of the shirt to the strands in the back. If you want the tassels visible, keep the shirt right-side out. If you don't want them to show, turn the shirt inside out first. Tie the strands in a tight double knot.

Trim the Tassels (Optional):

If you tied the knots inside the shirt, you may want to trim the tassels so they don't tickle your sides and help the shirt lay smoother. Cut them as close as possible to the knots, then turn the shirt right-side out.

Variations:

You can create different looks by varying the placement of the knot (front, back, or side) and by tying it loose or tight. You can also try a double knot on both sides of the shirt for a cropped look, or a pretzel knot by pulling the sides of the shirt to the front and creating a basic knot.

Tips:

  • Practice on old T-shirts first until you get the hang of it.
  • It's better to cut too little off than too much. You can always cut more, but you can't add back what you've cut!
  • For a simple knotted look without cutting, try using a rubber band to create a fake knot, then tucking the extended piece underneath your shirt.

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Cut the shirt into a sleeveless top

To cut the shirt into a sleeveless top, follow these steps:

Firstly, decide whether you want to cut the collar off your shirt. If you do, cut along the stitching, starting at the front-left side and working your way towards the right side. Continue cutting along the back of the collar until you reach where you started. If you want a more feminine touch, cut the front of the collar lower. To do this, fold the front of the shirt in half lengthwise, ensuring the cut edges of the front collar are lined up. Then, begin cutting about 1 inch (2.5 cm) below the cut edge of the collar, finishing at the side edge.

Next, cut the sleeves off your shirt. Start cutting at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) below the armpit and finish at the shoulder seam, where the sleeve connects to the shirt. If you want narrower shoulders, finish cutting closer to the collar. Repeat this process for the other sleeve, ensuring you cut at the same level as the first sleeve.

If you want to create a racerback tank, pinch the back of the shirt with your fingers through each armhole. Gather the fabric between the two armholes and wrap the cut-off collar around the pinched fabric at armpit-level. Secure the end of the collar strip by gluing it to the inside of the shirt, sewing it, or threading it under the wrapped strip.

Finally, try on your shirt. If you want, cut the bottom hem off to complete the cut-off look. For an even neater finish, gently pull along all of your cut edges. This will cause the fabric to curl and conceal any jaggedness.

Frequently asked questions

Fold the back of your T-shirt in half lengthwise, with the back on the outside and the front on the inside. Decide on the shape you want the slashes to create and draw half of the desired shape along the folded edge. Cut slits into the folded edge, stopping at the lines that you drew, and then unfold your T-shirt.

Cut the collar off at the stitching, starting from the front-left side and working your way towards the right side. Cut the front of the collar lower if you want a more feminine touch. Cut the sleeves off, starting at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) below the armpit, and finish cutting at the shoulder seam. Pinch the back of the shirt to create a racerback shape and wrap the cut-off collar around the pinched fabric at armpit level.

Cut off the collar and the bottom hem. Figure out how tight you want the shirt to be by measuring around your waist and dividing that number by 2, then adding 3 inches (7.6 cm). Transfer this new width measurement to your shirt and cut the sides of the shirt from shoulder-to-hem. Cut evenly spaced slits into the side of the shirt, from hem to armpit, and tie the strands in the front of the shirt to the strands in the back.

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