Customizing Tank Tops: Adding Pictures To Your Summer Wardrobe

There are several ways to put a picture on a tank top. You can make your own by cutting up an existing T-shirt and sewing it into a tank top, then adding your picture. You can also buy customisable tank tops online from sites such as Etsy, Amazon and Fine Art America, and upload your own image to be printed on the front.

Choosing a picture

• Consider the type of garment: Since you are putting a picture on a tank top, you will have a large area to print on, unlike garments with pockets, hoods, or collars.
• Think about the size of the garment: Larger sizes offer more space for printing. The standard maximum printing area for the front and back of a tank top or t-shirt is 12" x 16".
• Choose the right image size: There is no predetermined size for a custom image on a tank top. However, you should consider the printable area of the garment and the requirements of your print provider. The image should be high-resolution, ideally with a resolution of 300 DPI.
• Pick the right file format: Print providers usually accept JPEG, PNG, and SVG files. If you are using vector images, make sure to save them in the correct format and size, as some companies require JPEGs or PNGs.
• Select a complementary colour: Consider whether your image has rich colours or softer tones. Choose a tank top colour that will create a clear contrast with your image to make the print stand out. For example, use a light-coloured shirt for images with dark details, and a dark-coloured shirt for softer tones.
• Ensure comfort and durability: If the tank top is for workouts, choose a fabric that is durable and comfortable. Consider the cost of the fabric and the printing method you want to use.
• Use design tools: If you are new to design, use tools like Canva to create attractive designs without extensive experience.

Selecting a tank top

Fit and Style:

• Consider the intended wearer's gender: Tank tops for women often feature scoop necks, which reduce the available space for printing. As a result, smaller prints tend to look better on women's tank tops. Men's tank tops, on the other hand, usually have a more spacious print area.
• Choose the right neck style: Aside from scoop necks, tank tops also come in crew necks and V-necks. The neck style can impact the available printing space and the overall look of the garment.
• Evaluate the back style: Some tank tops have unique back designs, such as racerbacks or lace backs, which can influence the printing process. Consider whether the back style will accommodate your desired print.

Material:

• Cotton: Cotton is a common material for tank tops, offering breathability and comfort. It is often blended with other fibres, such as polyester, to create a durable and lightweight fabric.
• Polyester: Polyester is another popular choice for tank tops, known for its moisture-wicking properties, making it ideal for activewear.
• Blends: Blended fabrics, such as cotton-polyester blends, can offer the best of both worlds, combining breathability and durability.

Brand and Special Features:

• Choose a reputable brand: Look for well-known brands such as Gildan®, Sport-Tek®, or Bella+Canvas, which offer quality and consistency in their products.
• Consider special features: Some tank tops feature cool-fit technology, water-wicking capabilities, shaped seams, or neck tape. These features can enhance comfort and performance, especially if you intend to use the tank top for workouts or outdoor activities.

When selecting a tank top, it's essential to consider the purpose, whether it's for promotional events, giveaways, personal use, or retail. This will help you choose the right style, material, and brand to meet your specific needs.

Positioning the picture

When positioning the picture on your tank top, it's important to consider the style of the top and who will be wearing it. Here are some tips for positioning your picture:

• For men's tank tops, the general rule of thumb is to position the graphic front and centre, with the same distance from the collar as you would for a t-shirt. A common technique is to use the "three-finger rule" as a guide for placement. However, keep in mind that tank tops are typically cut lower than t-shirt collars.
• For women's tank tops, it is recommended to position the design higher, especially for low-cut or deep V-neck styles. If the design is placed too low, it may end up partially covered by the breasts, which can affect the overall appearance. Aim for the design to start about two-thirds of the way down the armhole opening. This ensures the graphic is visible and not obscured by the wearer's body.
• When in doubt, hold the shirt up to yourself or the intended wearer to get a sense of where the design should go. Imagine where you want the picture to be and place it there. Use the armhole as a guide, as it will help you determine the appropriate height for the design. It's usually better to place the graphic slightly higher rather than lower to avoid any unwanted coverage.
• Consider the size and shape of the picture in relation to the tank top. You want to ensure the picture is proportional to the shirt and doesn't look too small or too large. Play around with different placements to see what looks best.
• If you're using a pre-made template for your picture, pay attention to the guidelines provided. These templates are designed to help you position your picture accurately, so follow the instructions for the best results.
• If you're creating a custom tank top with a picture, many online tools will allow you to preview the design before finalising it. Take advantage of this feature to get an idea of how the picture will look on the tank top and make any necessary adjustments.

Attaching the picture

There are several ways to attach a picture to a tank top. Here are some methods:

Using a Pre-Made Tank Top:

• Find a tank top that fits you well and use it as a template. Place the tank top on top of your chosen picture, and align the shoulders.
• Pin the tank top to the picture to keep it from moving. Cut the picture using the tank top's armholes and neckline as a guide, adding a seam allowance if needed.
• Unpin the tank top and fold down the seams. Press them flat with an iron to create a neat finish.
• Stitch the folded edges, either by hand or using a sewing machine.
• Turn the tank top right side out and try it on.

Creating a New Tank Top:

• Draft a pattern for the tank top by using an existing tank top as a guide or taking your own measurements.
• Trace the pattern onto your chosen fabric and cut out the pieces.
• Fold and press the raw edges of the fabric, including the bottom hem, armhole openings, and neckline. Pin and iron the folds in place.
• Place the front and back pieces of the tank top together, ensuring the "right" sides are facing each other. Pin the pieces together at the shoulders and sides.
• Sew the pieces together at the shoulders and sides, using a zigzag stitch to allow for stretch and minimise fraying.
• Hem the remaining raw edges, such as the bottom, neckline, and armholes, using a straight stitch.
• Try on your new tank top.

Using an Iron-On Transfer:

• Choose a tank top in a light colour and ensure it is laid flat on an ironing board.
• Select your desired picture and print it in reverse using iron-on transfer paper. Cut around the edges of the picture, leaving a small border.
• Place the picture onto the tank top, taking care to centre it and position it correctly.
• Follow the instructions on your transfer paper to iron on the picture.

Using Fabric Paint:

• Choose a plain tank top in a light colour.
• Select your desired picture and print it out to use as a reference.
• Trace the picture onto the tank top using a pencil or fabric chalk.
• Fill in the traced design using fabric paint and a small paintbrush. Allow the paint to dry completely.
• If needed, fix the paint by ironing the tank top on a low heat setting or according to the paint manufacturer's instructions.

These methods provide a range of options for attaching a picture to a tank top, allowing for customisation and personalisation.

Caring for the tank top

Caring for your tank top is important to ensure it stays in good condition. Here are some tips to help you care for your tank top:

• Always check the care label on your tank top before washing. This will provide specific instructions on how to wash and dry the garment.
• If your tank top is made from delicate fabric, such as silk or lace, it may require special care. Consider hand washing these items or using a gentle cycle on your washing machine.
• Avoid using fabric softener when washing your tank top, as it can affect the absorbency and durability of the fabric.
• When drying your tank top, avoid using high heat. Instead, tumble dry on a low setting or lay it flat to air dry.
• If your tank top is prone to wrinkling, use a cool iron to smooth out any creases.
• To prevent odours and discolouration, avoid storing your tank top in damp or humid environments.
• To maintain the colour and fabric of your tank top, avoid excessive exposure to direct sunlight.
• If your tank top has any embellishments, such as sequins or beading, handle it with care to avoid snagging or damaging the decorations.
• Rotate your tank tops regularly to avoid overuse and extend their lifespan.
• Store your tank tops in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Frequently asked questions