Creating A Peplum T-Shirt: A Simple Guide To Success

Making a peplum T-shirt is a great way to upcycle an old T-shirt and give it a new lease of life. The process is simple and only requires a few steps, although it can be time-consuming if you are stitching by hand. The most intensive part is stitching the skirt part onto the shirt. If you have a little patience, you will end up with a great result.

Choosing the right fabric

• Fabric Type: The most common fabric options for t-shirts are cotton and polyester or a blend of the two. Cotton is natural, comfortable, soft, and stays cool in summer. Polyester, on the other hand, is a synthetic fabric known for its durability, quick-drying properties, and wrinkle resistance. Other fabric options include linen, which is lightweight and breathable, perfect for warm weather, and tri-blend fabrics that combine cotton, polyester, and rayon for a soft and lightweight feel.
• Fabric Weight: The weight of the fabric, measured in GSM (grams per square meter), will impact the suitability of the peplum shirt for different weather conditions and activities. Lightweight fabrics (around 100-150 GSM) are thinner and more breathable, while heavyweight fabrics (200+ GSM) are thicker and more durable. Mid-weight fabrics (150-200 GSM) offer a balance of breathability and durability.
• Fit: The fit of the peplum shirt is influenced by the fabric's stretch and construction. A well-fitted shirt should complement your body shape without being too tight or loose. Fabrics with a blend of spandex or elastane offer better fit and flexibility.
• Longevity: Consider fabrics known for their durability, such as combed cotton or blended materials. Higher-quality fabrics will maintain their shape, color, and integrity over time, ensuring the peplum shirt lasts longer.
• Comfort: Natural fibers like cotton are typically softer and more breathable than synthetic ones. Cotton is soft, comfortable, and gentle against the skin, making it a popular choice for t-shirts. However, it tends to hold moisture and can be prone to wrinkling and shrinking.
• Printing Compatibility: If you plan to print designs on your peplum shirt, consider fabrics with a smooth surface, like cotton or polyester blends. Cotton is often preferred for printing as it holds color well and results in vibrant, long-lasting prints. Polyester is also a good choice for certain printing techniques, such as sublimation, which can achieve vivid colors and designs.
• Sustainability: If you prioritize sustainability, look for organic cotton or recycled polyester fabrics. These options minimize environmental impact and promote eco-friendly practices.

Creating the peplum pattern

Creating a peplum pattern is a simple process that only requires a few steps and some basic materials. Here is a detailed guide on how to create a peplum pattern:

Materials Needed:

• T-shirt that fits you well
• Large piece of paper (lining paper or newspaper)
• Folding the paper in half
• Tape or ruler
• Chalk or fabric marker
• Scissors

Step 1: Measure Your Waist

Measure around your waist where you want the peplum to start. For a more accurate measurement, divide this number by 6.28; this will be your waist radius. It is important to get this measurement right, as it will ensure that the peplum fits well and flatters your figure.

Step 2: Draw and Cut the Semicircles

Using the tape or ruler, measure the waist radius down from the top corner of the folded side of the paper. Mark this distance at close intervals from one side to the other to create a semicircle.

For a short peplum, measure 13 cm (5 inches) outside this line and draw another semicircle. This will include enough fabric for a seam allowance and hem. Cut along both semicircles, and then unfold the paper to create your peplum pattern.

Step 3: Prepare the T-shirt

Take the T-shirt that you will be using for the peplum and turn it inside out. Pin the pattern close to the bottom, through the back and front of the shirt. Carefully cut out the fabric along the pinned line.

Step 4: Sew the Peplum

Sew the straight edges of the fabric, right sides together, to create a doughnut shape. You can finish the outside edge with an overlocker, or create a small hem, or even leave it raw if you prefer that look.

Step 5: Prepare the T-shirt Top

Take the T-shirt that fits you well and lay it on top of the T-shirt you will be using for the peplum. Trace around the sleeves and sides of the well-fitting T-shirt and cut it out, including the sleeves.

Step 6: Attach the Sleeves

With the right sides facing each other, sew the sleeves onto the new chest piece along the shoulder line. Try on the shirt to ensure a snug fit, pinning the underparts of the sleeves if necessary. Remove the shirt and sew one seam from the chest to the sleeve edge. Repeat this process for the other side of the T-shirt.

Step 7: Attach the Peplum

Pin the peplum to the T-shirt where you want it to start, matching up the side seams. You can trim the T-shirt or adjust the side seams to ensure that the peplum and the shirt have the same circumference. The stretch in the fabric will help the two pieces fit together smoothly.

Step 8: Finish the Seams

Stitch the peplum in place and then press the seams to complete the look.

Cutting the fabric

The first step is to cut the fabric for the peplum top. For this, you will need a T-shirt that fits you well and a large piece of paper (newspaper or lining paper will work). You will also need measuring tools such as a tape measure or ruler, and marking tools such as chalk or pins.

Creating the Peplum Pattern

• Fold the paper in half.
• Measure your waist where you want the peplum to start and divide this number by 6.28 to get the waist radius.
• Mark the waist radius at the top corner of the folded side of the paper and draw a semicircle along this line.
• For a short peplum, measure 13 cm (5 inches) outside this line and draw another semicircle. This includes the seam allowance and hem.
• Cut along both semicircles and unfold the paper to get your peplum pattern.

Cutting the T-shirt

• Place the T-shirt you will be using for the peplum wrong side out.
• Pin the pattern close to the bottom of the T-shirt, through the back and front.
• Cut out the T-shirt along the pattern.
• Sew the straight edges of the peplum piece, right sides together, to create a doughnut shape.
• Finish the outside edge with an overlocker, or make a small hem, or leave it raw if preferred.

Cutting the Top

• Take a T-shirt that fits you well and lay it on top of the T-shirt you will be using for the peplum.
• Trace around the sleeves and sides of the well-fitting T-shirt and cut it out, including the sleeves.
• You now have the basic pieces for your peplum top: the peplum and the top.

Sewing the peplum to the T-shirt

Step 1: Prepare the peplum

Before attaching the peplum to the T-shirt, you need to prepare the peplum. Cut off the sleeves of the T-shirt and try it on inside out. Mark the new seam line for the shoulder with chalk, adding a 5/8-inch seam allowance. Then, mark where the peplum should start. The distance between the shoulder and the peplum seam can be measured from a well-fitting peplum top that you already own. Cut the marked line.

Step 2: Adjust the sleeves

Cut off the sleeves and try on the T-shirt again to figure out how much you need to take in the side seams. Pinch out about 4 inches on each side and mark with pins. Take the T-shirt off and add your seam allowance with chalk before cutting. Fold the shirt in half and cut the other side. Use a curved ruler to redraw the sleeve opening from the chalk marking.

Step 3: Reattach the sleeves

Pin the sleeve to the bodice, right sides together. Stretch the armhole until all the sleeve ease is eased in, then serge it at a 5/8-inch seam allowance. Repeat for the other sleeve.

Step 4: Sew the side seams

Pin the side seams together, making sure that the arm seams match. Serge the seams together.

Step 5: Prepare the peplum

Gather the top edge of the peplum by sewing a basting stitch at 3/8-inch. Adjust the gathers until the peplum is the same width as the bodice edge.

Step 6: Attach the peplum

Pin the peplum to the bodice, right sides together. To prevent the waistline from stretching, use clear elastic to stabilise the seam. Attach the elastic while sewing the peplum and bodice together, using a zig-zag stitch on your sewing machine or a serger.

Step 7: Finish the seam

If you used a sewing machine for the last step, trim down the seam. Press the seam towards the bodice. Your peplum T-shirt is now ready!

Finishing touches

Now that the peplum top is ready, it's time for the final touches. Here are some ideas to perfect your new creation:

• Hemming: Finish the edges of the sleeves and the bottom of the peplum with a narrow hem. This will give your top a polished look and prevent fraying.
• Neckline: Decide on the style of your neckline. You can go for a classic round neckline, a V-neck, or even a boat neck. Mark the desired neckline with pins and carefully cut and hem the fabric.
• Embellishments: Add some sparkle to your peplum top with sequins, beads, or rhinestones. You can sew on individual stones or create a pattern with them. Alternatively, use fabric paint to add designs or write catchy phrases on your top.
• Fabric combinations: Play with different fabrics to create a unique peplum top. Combine a cotton T-shirt with a silk or lace peplum for an elegant look. You can also attach a peplum made from a sheer fabric over a solid-colored T-shirt for a layered effect.
• Color blocking: Experiment with color blocking by using different colored fabrics for the T-shirt and peplum. Choose complementary colors or create a bold contrast to make a statement.
• Accessories: Style your peplum top with the right accessories. A statement necklace or a thin belt at the waist can accentuate your figure and add a touch of glamour.

Frequently asked questions