Transforming T-Shirts: Diy Tube Top Tutorial

There are several ways to make a T-shirt into a tube top, and most of them are easy to do at home. The no-sew method involves cutting the sleeves off a T-shirt and tying the sides together. If you have basic sewing skills, you can cut off the top of a T-shirt, sew a hem, and thread elastic through the hem to make a tube top. For a more advanced project, you can cut a T-shirt into a rectangle, sew the sides, and add elastic to the top to create a tube top.

Cut the sleeves off

To cut the sleeves off a T-shirt, lay the T-shirt flat on a table or another workspace. Grab a pair of scissors and cut the sleeves off, removing them entirely. Be sure to cut the seams where the sleeves are attached to the T-shirt. It is important to use sharp scissors to ensure that the edges of the fabric are not burred. If you are having trouble cutting straight, use a ruler or measuring tape as a guideline.

Once the sleeves are removed, you will be left with the main body of the T-shirt, which will form the tube top. The next step is to cut through both layers of the shirt, just below the armpits. Try to cut both layers at the same time to create a clean edge. You can discard the top portion of the shirt or save it for another project.

At this point, you can turn the raw edge under by about 1 inch (2.54 centimetres) and secure it with sewing pins. This will create a neat hem. If you want a crisp edge, you can press the folded hem with a clothing iron before sewing. Remember to remove the pins once you are done sewing.

Cut through both layers of the shirt

Cutting through both layers of the shirt is a crucial step in the process of transforming an old T-shirt into a tube top. It is important to cut through both layers simultaneously to ensure a clean and precise cut. This step involves carefully slicing through the fabric along the middle of the masking tape that has been applied at the armpit level.

To begin, lay the T-shirt flat on a work surface, ensuring it is smooth and free of wrinkles. Take a pair of sharp scissors and start cutting from one side, following the line of the tape. Cut slowly and steadily, maintaining control of the scissors at all times. It is important to take your time and focus on making a straight and even cut. If you feel more comfortable, you can use a ruler or measuring tape as a guide to ensure a straight line.

The goal is to cut through both the front and back layers of the shirt in one smooth motion. This technique will help you achieve a clean edge and minimise the risk of accidental cuts or uneven lines. Take your time and be precise, as this step forms the foundation for the rest of the transformation process.

Once you have successfully cut through both layers, you can proceed to the next step, which involves removing the masking tape and creating fabric tabs. It is important to work with precision and focus during this cutting process to ensure the final tube top has a neat and professional appearance.

By following these detailed instructions, you will be well on your way to creating a stylish and unique tube top from your old T-shirt. Remember to take your time, especially during the cutting process, to ensure a high-quality finish for your upcycled garment.

Measure elastic for the top hem

To measure elastic for the top hem of your tube top, you'll first need to measure your chest. Take a measuring tape and measure around your chest, just below your armpits. This is where the top of your tube top will sit. Make a note of this measurement.

Next, you'll need to cut your elastic. It's important to use the right type of elastic—knitted elastic is best as it is firm and won't stretch out when you sew over it. Don't use braided elastic. Cut the elastic according to your chest measurement, adding an extra 0.5 inches (1.27 centimeters) to allow for overlap. This extra length is important because you want your tube top to stay up, and the elastic should be slightly stretched, but not too tight.

Now you have your elastic, you can attach it to the top hem of your tube top. Overlap the two ends of the elastic by 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) and sew them together using a small stitch. This will prevent any unsightly bulges.

Sew the elastic into the top hem

Now that you have the elastic ready, it's time to sew it into the top hem of your tube top. This process will involve a few steps, including folding over the elastic, stitching it in place, and creating a neat finish. Here's a detailed guide to help you sew the elastic securely and effectively:

Firstly, overlap the two ends of the elastic by approximately 1 inch (2.54 centimeters). This overlap will ensure that the elastic forms a secure circle that can be attached to the top hem. Sew the overlapped ends together using a small, tight stitch. Try to use a stitch specifically designed for stretchy fabrics—this is usually a straight stitch broken up by V-shapes. By using the appropriate stitch, you can ensure that the elastic remains flexible and functional.

Next, you'll want to attach the elastic to the tube top itself. To do this, match the quarter marks on the elastic to the quarter marks on the wrong side of the tube top. The elastic seam is best placed at the side or back of the garment. Secure the elastic to the edge of the top using a wide zig-zag stitch. For this step, a stitch width of 5.0 and a length of 2.0 are recommended. This will help to create a strong and flexible seam that can stretch with the elastic.

Once the elastic is attached, fold it over to the inside of the tube top and stitch it in place again. This second line of stitching will ensure that the elastic remains secure and helps to create a neat and tidy finish. Finally, create a hem by turning the raw edge of the fabric up by ¾ inch (4cm) and stitching over the edge with a zig-zag stitch. If you're working with a particularly stretchy fabric, consider using hemming tape to prevent puckering or distortion of the fabric.

And that's it! You've successfully sewn the elastic into the top hem of your tube top. This process is an essential step in creating a functional and comfortable garment. By following these steps, you've added elasticity to the top of your tube top, ensuring a snug fit that will hold the garment securely in place. Well done!

Sew the sides and bottom hem

Now that you have your measurements, it is time to cut out your pattern from your stretch fabric. Cut two pieces, one for the front and one for the back. Before you start cutting, check if pins leave holes in your fabric. If they do, use pattern weights instead. Something as simple as cans from your pantry can be used as cheap and effective pattern weights.

Ensure the fabric is flat on the table and not wrinkled. Use sharp scissors so as not to burr the edges. Place the front and back pieces with their right sides together and stitch the side seams with a ⅜ inch (1 cm) seam allowance. If you do not have a serger, use a narrow zig-zag stitch on your regular machine with a stretch needle. Try a width of 1.0 and a length of 3.0.

The reason why a straight stitch will not work is that the seams need to have a slight stretch so they do not break when you move around. Zig-zag will stretch with your body and be much more durable. Because stretch fabric doesn't fray, you don't need to finish the seams.

Turn the tube top to the right side and try it on. Stretch fabrics vary in their stretch, so you may find it is a little looser than you wish. Take in the side seams if necessary. Don't forget that we will be adding elastic to the top.

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