If you're looking to make a dancer tank top, you've come to the right place. In this paragraph, we'll guide you through the process of creating your very own tank top, perfect for dancing or any other activity. All you need are some basic sewing skills and about a yard and a half of fabric to get started. Natural fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal for a comfortable and breathable tank top. You can also add darts for a better fit and more shape around the bust area. To make your own pattern, simply trace around a well-fitting tank top you already own, adjusting the neckline and adding optional details like an opening with a button loop/button at the back. So, get your sewing machine ready and let's create a stylish and comfortable dancer tank top!
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Fabric | Natural fabrics like cotton or linen |
Darts | Optional, create a 3/4" fold 2 inches down from the armpit, tapering in so it ends 4" from the side seam |
Sewing machine | Basic model |
Sewing technique | Sew a very narrow seam |
Hem | Very narrow, about 1/8" |
What You'll Learn
Create a pattern by tracing a tank top that fits well
Creating a pattern for your dancer tank top by tracing a tank top that fits you well is a great way to ensure your handmade top will have the right fit. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Find a Tank Top That Fits You Well
Look for a tank top in your closet that fits you well and is a similar style to the one you want to make. It should be a basic tank top without any darts, pleats, or other accents. If you want to make a stretchy knit tank top, use a stretchy knit tank as your base.
Fold the Tank Top in Half
Fold the tank top in half along its vertical center, making sure the front neckline remains visible. Place it on a large piece of paper, such as brown drafting paper or blank newsprint.
Add a Seam Allowance and Trace the Outline
Trace around the entire outline of the folded tank top. Then, create a second outline about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) outside the first. This extra space will be your seam allowance. If you're using a knit tank as a base but want to make a woven tank, add another 1 inch (2.5 cm) around the perimeter for extra allowance.
Tuck in the Upper Back and Repeat
Carefully fold the back neckline of the tank top between the straps and trace around it again, adding the seam allowance. This separate piece is necessary because the back neckline is usually higher than the front. Make sure the rest of the tank outline remains even when you fold in the neckline. If it distorts the shape, unfold it while tracing the rest of the outline.
Cut Out the Pattern Pieces
Use scissors to carefully cut out both the front and back pattern pieces, including the seam allowances. Label the pieces clearly as "Back" and "Front" to avoid confusion later. You may also want to mark where the fold sits on each pattern piece.
Make a Master Copy (Optional)
Before cutting your desired fabric, consider making a master copy of your pattern. Cut the pattern out of a piece of fabric you don't mind messing up, such as an old sheet. This step will allow you to test the fit and make any necessary adjustments before cutting into your final fabric.
Now that you have a pattern, you can move on to choosing your fabric and cutting out the pieces for your dancer tank top. Remember to select a fabric that is comfortable and breathable, such as cotton or linen. You can also add darts for a better fit and include design elements like an opening with a button at the back.
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Make a master pattern copy
Making a master pattern copy is an essential step in the process of creating a DIY tank top. It allows you to ensure the shape and fit of your garment are correct before cutting into more expensive fabric. Here's a detailed guide on how to make a master pattern copy:
- Cut the first draft: Use a fabric that you don't mind messing up for this step. Trace around a well-fitting tank top you already own, creating a pattern for the front and back pieces. Remember that the front neckline will plunge lower than the back. If you want to add details like an opening with a button loop/button at the back, include those in your pattern.
- Create a copy: Copy the pattern pieces you made onto another piece of inexpensive fabric, such as an old sheet. This step is crucial because you'll want to adjust and perfect the shape before cutting into your final fabric.
- Adjust and perfect: Make your first draft of the tank top using the copied pattern pieces. If adjustments are needed, you can modify the copied pattern rather than starting from scratch. This is a crucial step to get the perfect shape and fit.
- Save the master pattern: Once you're happy with the shape and fit of your first draft, save the copied pattern pieces as your master pattern. This will allow you to recreate the tank top easily in the future without having to go through the drafting process again.
Creating a master pattern copy may seem like extra work, but it's a valuable step to ensure a good fit and save time in the long run. By learning from the process and making adjustments, you'll be able to create a versatile and flattering tank top pattern that you can use over and over again.
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Sew darts for a better fit
To sew darts for a better fit, follow these steps:
Step 1: Transfer the Dart Markings
Use tailor's chalk, a tracing wheel and carbon paper, or removable markers to transfer the dart markings from the pattern piece onto the wrong side of the fabric. Mark the center of the dart and fold the fabric along that line, pinning it in place.
Step 2: Mark the Center Dart
Fold the dart in half, with the fabric right sides together, along the marked center line. Pin in place, with the last pin placed at the point of the dart.
Step 3: Sew the Darts
Start stitching with a straight stitch from the widest part of the dart, sewing towards the point. Use a medium stitch length and remove pins as you stitch. As you approach the point of the dart, shorten the stitch length to create a smoother and stronger dart. Do not backstitch at the end; instead, leave a long tail of thread and knot it carefully.
Step 4: Press the Darts
Press the darts in the direction specified by the pattern. Generally, horizontal bust darts are pressed downwards, while vertical darts around the waist are pressed towards the center. Use a tailor's ham or a rolled towel to maintain the shape of the dart.
Step 5: Clip or Trim the Darts (if needed)
For deep darts, you may need to trim or clip the excess fabric to reduce bulk. If you trim the dart, finish the raw edges to prevent fraying. However, be aware that finishing the edges may cause bumps to show on the right side of the fabric.
By sewing darts in your dancer tank top, you can create a three-dimensional shape that accentuates the curves of the body and ensures a better fit.
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Put the tank together
Putting the Tank Together
Now that you have your fabric cut out and your darts sewn, it's time to put the tank together. With right sides facing each other, overlay the front piece onto the back piece. Ensure that the straps, armholes, and side seams are all aligned. Sew a 1/4" seam down the sides and across the top of each strap.
Try on your tank to ensure it fits as desired. At this stage, you can still adjust the strap length, neckline, and bottom curve. If you're not happy with the fit, don't be afraid to start again with new pattern pieces.
However, if you're happy with the fit, it's time to finish the raw edges. Cut a long strip of fabric, approximately 1" wide, and line it up with the neckline, leaving about 1" of overlap on both sides. Sew the strip to the neckline with right sides together, using a very narrow seam. Press the strip towards the inside of the tank, then fold and sew the raw edge to neatly hide it.
If you've chosen to include a button opening at the back, finish the raw edges with another 1" strip of fabric. Create a button loop by folding a 3" portion of the strip, then sew it in place while attaching the strip. Use the overhang from the previous step to cover the top of the strip neatly.
Finishing Touches
To finish the armholes, use a 1" strip of fabric, attaching the ends near the side seam. Sew a narrow hem around the bottom of the tank, folding and pressing as you go. Keep the hem narrow to reduce bulk and ensure a smooth lay.
And there you have it! Your very own handmade dancer tank top, ready to be styled and shown off.
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Finish all the raw edges
Finishing the raw edges of your dancer tank top is an important step to ensure the durability of the garment and to ensure it looks clean and crisp. There are several ways to finish raw edges, and the best method will depend on the type of fabric you are using. Here is a detailed guide on four of the most common methods:
- Serging or Zig-Zag Stitch: This is the most common method for finishing raw edges and can be done on a home sewing machine. First, stitch your seam together. Then, run a serging or zig-zag stitch along the edge of the raw fabric. Iron the excess seam allowance towards the back of the garment. This method works well for delicate fabrics such as silk and chiffon.
- French Seam: The French seam is perfect for lightweight fabrics. Place the fabric with the wrong sides together and sew a ⅜" (1cm) seam. Trim the seam allowance back to ¼" (6mm) on both sides. Press the seam to set the stitches. Fold the fabric back on itself so that the right sides are together, enclosing the raw edges. Sew a second seam just under ¼" (6mm) wide, encasing the seam allowance. Press the seam allowance towards the back of the garment.
- Flat Fell Seam: This method is commonly used for denim and thicker woven fabrics. Stitch the seams together with the faces of the fabric touching, using a ½” seam allowance. Iron the seam allowance open. Trim one side of the seam allowance at a ¼” (in half). Fold the untrimmed seam allowance in at a ¼”, iron, and pin to secure. Stitch close to the edge of the fold. Iron the seam on the face of the garment for a professional look.
- Bound Seam: This method is commonly used for outerwear such as jackets and heavier cardigans. Stitch the seam with the faces of the fabric touching. Unfold the binding and align one edge with the raw edge of the fabric. Pin horizontally and stitch on top of the binding's fold line. Close the binding's fold over the raw edges and iron to stabilize. Sew a straight stitch on the side where the binding is open, as close to the edge of the fold as possible. Iron the seam towards the back of the garment.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need 1.5 yards of fabric (cotton, linen, or a linen/cotton blend), matching thread, and a sewing machine.
You can draft a pattern by tracing around a tank top that fits you well. The front and back pieces should be the same size and shape, except the front neckline, which should plunge lower than the back.
Put the front and back pieces together with right sides facing, ensuring the straps, armpit area, and side seams are aligned. Sew a 1/4" seam down the sides and straps. Finish the raw edges, armholes, and bottom hem with a 1" strip of fabric.