Tank tops are a versatile garment and a great beginner sewing project. In this guide, we'll show you how to sew a men's tank top, covering everything from drafting the pattern to stitching the final product. Whether you're looking to create a comfortable undershirt or a stylish top for a night out, this tutorial will teach you the basics of tank top construction. So, grab your sewing kit, choose a fabric, and let's get started on crafting a classic tank top!
How to Sew a Men's Tank Top
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Difficulty | Easy, suitable for beginners |
Materials | Fabric, paper for the template, sewing machine, scissors, pins, tape, pencil or chalk |
Fabric | Light- to medium-weight jersey fabric with stretch, e.g. Viscose, Bamboo, Tencel, Cotton Lycra |
Pattern | Can be made from an existing tank top or custom measurements |
Cutting | Cut the pattern, front and back on the fold, facings on the bias |
Sewing | Zigzag stitch, straight stitch, French seam |
Hemming | Narrow rolled hem, blind hem |
What You'll Learn
Choosing the right fabric
Drape
The drape of the fabric refers to how it hangs or falls when draped over a surface. If you're going for a structured silhouette for your tank top, choose a fabric with more body and stiffness. On the other hand, if you want a fluid silhouette that flows over the body, go for a fabric with a softer and more fluid drape.
Texture
Select a fabric with a texture that aligns with the overall look and feel you want to achieve. Consider whether you want something smooth and silky or rough and textured. The texture of the fabric will enhance the visual appeal of your tank top.
Stretch
The stretch of the fabric is crucial, especially if you're making a form-fitting tank top. Knit fabrics are stretchier than woven fabrics, so they are ideal for garments that need to stretch and hug the body. If you opt for a stretchy fabric, be sure to select a pattern designed for knits, as using a non-stretch fabric can result in a baggy, shapeless garment.
Durability
Consider the intended use of the tank top and choose a fabric that can withstand frequent washing and wearing without losing its shape or colour. If you're making an everyday garment, go for durable fabrics like cotton or polyester blends.
Fabric Type
You can choose from a variety of fabric types, including natural fibres like cotton, linen, and silk, or synthetic fibres like polyester and nylon. Natural fibres are more breathable and cooler, while synthetic fibres may offer more ease of care and durability.
Fabric Weight
The weight of the fabric will impact the overall look and feel of your tank top. Lightweight fabrics are ideal for hot weather, while medium-weight and heavy fabrics are better for layering or colder temperatures.
Print and Pattern
If you're using a printed or patterned fabric, consider the scale of the print in relation to the size of your tank top. Smaller prints may be more suitable for a smaller garment like a tank top, while larger prints can make a bold statement. Additionally, keep in mind that printed fabrics may require more careful cutting and sewing to ensure the print lines up correctly.
Sewing Level
Finally, consider your sewing level. If you're a beginner, it's best to start with easy-to-sew fabrics like cotton. More challenging fabrics like silk or chiffon may require special techniques and tools, so it's better to leave those for when your skills have progressed.
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Drafting the pattern
To draft the pattern for a men's tank top, you can either use an existing tank top as a guide or take your own measurements. If you're using a tank top, fold it in half vertically and place it on a large sheet of paper. Trace around the outline, adding a 1/2-inch seam allowance. If you're using a stretchy knit, add an extra inch around the perimeter. For the back neckline, fold the neckline into the shirt and trace around it, adding the seam allowance. Cut out the pattern pieces and label them "Back" and "Front".
If you're drafting the pattern from scratch, you'll need to take the following measurements: bust/chest, armhole depth, neck depth, neck width, and desired length. Draw a rectangle with a height matching your desired length and a width matching half your bust/chest size. Within this rectangle, create the neck and armhole openings using your measurements. Draw a second outline 1/2 inch outside the first one to create the seam allowance. Cut out both the front and back pattern pieces and label them accordingly.
Once you have your pattern pieces, you can use them to cut the fabric for your tank top. Place the pattern pieces on the fabric, pin them in place, and cut along the traced pattern lines. Then, you can start sewing the pieces together to create your tank top.
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Cutting the fabric
Now that you have your pattern, it's time to cut your fabric. The first step is to fold your fabric in half. Then, place your pattern pieces on the fabric, lining up the "fold" marks on the pattern with the fabric's fold. Pin the pattern pieces in place, keeping them as flat as possible.
Use a fabric pencil or chalk to trace the outline of the pattern pieces onto the fabric. You can also cut the fabric directly if you're confident and your fabric has a clear right and wrong side. If your fabric is thin or the right and wrong sides are difficult to distinguish, tracing the outline first is a good idea.
Cut along the traced lines with pinking shears, a rotary cutter, or standard scissors. Pinking shears will help minimise fraying, but they are not necessary. If using scissors or a rotary cutter, cut carefully along the outline of each pattern piece.
Once the pieces are cut out, unpin and unfold them. Set the pattern pieces aside—you may be able to reuse them later. Now you should have two fabric pieces, one for the front of the tank top and one for the back.
If you're using a stretchy knit fabric, be sure to cut the facings on the bias so they can stretch. The front and back pieces should be cut on the fold unless you want a seam down the front or back of the tank top.
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Sewing the pieces together
Now that you have your fabric cut out, it's time to sew the pieces together. Start by pinning the front and back sides of your tank top together, with the right sides facing each other. Match the shoulder and side seams. Sew using a ⅝” seam allowance. Turn the tank top right side out and press.
Next, you will finish the shoulder and side seams. You can use pinking shears or a French seam for this. Pin the bottom of your tank into a hem. A narrow rolled hem is a good option, but you can also choose a blind hem, depending on the shape of your tank.
With the right sides together, sew the short ends of each facing together with a ⅜” seam. Press the seam open. Now, pin the facing to the neckline, sewing with a ⅜” seam allowance. Press the facing toward the inside of the tank. Then, top stitch along the neckline, using a ¼” seam.
Repeat this process for the armholes. Finish the facing seams and press. And there you have it—your first DIY tank top!
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Hemming the raw edges
Folding and Pressing:
Begin by folding and pressing the raw edges of the fabric. For the bottom hem, fold up a 1/4-inch edge, and then fold it over again by another 1/4 inch. This technique ensures that the raw edge is securely tucked inside. Repeat this process for the armhole openings and neckline as well. As for the sides and shoulder edges, a single fold of 1/4 inch will suffice. Use pins to hold the folds in place, and then iron press them for a crisp finish.
Stitching:
Once you have neatly folded and pressed the edges, it's time to stitch them in place. Use a sewing machine or hand stitch along the folded edges, being mindful to maintain a consistent seam allowance of approximately 1/4 inch. A straight stitch is recommended for this step, as it provides a clean and sturdy finish.
Tips for a Professional Finish:
For a more polished look, consider using a matching thread colour that blends in with your fabric. Additionally, ensure that your stitches are tight and secure, especially at the beginning and end of each seam, to prevent any unintentional unravelling. If you're working with a fabric that frays easily, you may want to opt for a zigzag stitch along the raw edges before folding and stitching the hems. This will add extra security and reduce the likelihood of fraying over time.
Review and Adjust:
After stitching, carefully review your work and make any necessary adjustments. Check that the hems are uniform and symmetrical, and trim any excess threads. If you notice any uneven edges or mistakes, carefully unpick the stitches and redo the hemming process for that particular section.
By following these steps, you will be able to achieve neatly hemmed edges for your men's tank top, contributing to a well-crafted and durable garment.
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