Sewing Skirts To Tank Tops: A Beginner's Guide

Sewing a skirt to a tank top is a fun and easy project that can help you create a unique and stylish piece for your wardrobe. This DIY project allows you to upcycle an old tank top or give a vintage find a modern twist. To get started, you'll need basic materials such as a tank top, fabric scissors, an elastic band, sewing pins, a sewing machine or needle and thread, and a measuring tape. You can also add decorative trims or embellishments for a personal touch.

The first step is to gather your supplies and prepare your tank top by turning it inside out and smoothing out any wrinkles. You will then need to identify the desired length of the skirt and mark this on the tank top. If you want to modify the shape or fit, you can do so at this stage. The next step is to cut the tank top along the marked line, being cautious and precise to ensure a clean and even hemline.

To create a waistband for your skirt, measure and cut the elastic band to fit your waist comfortably. Secure the ends of the elastic band to the top edge of the fabric tube and distribute the fabric evenly to create pleats or ruffles. Sew the fabric to the elastic band, trying it on to ensure a comfortable fit. Finish the skirt hem by trying it on again and adjusting the length as needed. Sew the hem, removing any pins, and giving the skirt a final check to ensure it is even and well-sewn.

Finally, try on your newly transformed skirt and make any necessary adjustments. You can check the length, adjust the waistband, assess the overall look, and make additional modifications to enhance the skirt, such as adding pockets or embellishments. With these simple steps, you can turn a plain tank top into a stylish and trendy skirt, unleashing your creativity and reducing waste by promoting a more eco-friendly wardrobe.

Choosing the right fabric

• Consider your skill level: If you're a beginner, opt for fabrics that are easier to work with, such as cotton or linen. These natural fibres are breathable and ideal for summer garments. Cotton is a great choice for beginners as it is easy to cut and sew.
• Think about the garment's use: Consider the purpose and frequency of use for your skirt-tank top. If it's an everyday garment that will be washed frequently, choose durable and washable fabrics such as cotton or polyester. For special occasion outfits that won't be worn as often, you can explore more delicate options like silk or taffeta.
• Match the fabric to the pattern: Choose a fabric that suits the pattern you have in mind. If your pattern involves lots of darts and tailoring, avoid delicate, sheer fabrics. Instead, opt for patterns with flowing lines that showcase the drape and movement of the fabric.
• Consider the fabric's properties: Different fabrics have distinct characteristics. For example, knits are stretchier than woven fabrics, and silk is delicate and requires dry cleaning. Choose fabrics with properties that align with your project's requirements and your sewing skills.
• Choose the right weight: Fabrics come in various weights, and this is an important consideration. For a summer outfit, lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, or jersey are ideal as they are breathable and comfortable. For a winter ensemble, you might opt for thicker fabrics like denim or canvas.
• Pattern matching: If you choose a patterned fabric, ensure the scale of the pattern is suitable for your garment. Larger patterns are generally easier to work with and match up. If you're a beginner, start with solid colours or larger patterns to avoid the challenge of matching intricate designs.
• Fabric care: Consider the care instructions for the fabric. Some fabrics, like silk, require dry cleaning, while others, such as cotton, can be machine washed. Opt for fabrics with care instructions that align with your preferences and lifestyle.
• Try before you buy: If possible, touch and feel the fabric before purchasing. This is especially important if you're buying fabric online. Order swatches or samples to get a sense of the fabric's texture, weight, and drape.
• Affordability: Fabric prices vary, and your budget will play a role in your selection. Opt for affordable options if you're a beginner—you don't want to risk wasting expensive fabric on a project that might not turn out as planned. Save the luxurious fabrics for when your skills are more advanced.

Cutting the tank top

To begin cutting the tank top, you must first prepare the garment. Turn the tank top inside out, ensuring that the seams and markings are on the inside. Smooth out any creases or wrinkles so that the fabric is flat. This will make it easier to measure and cut accurately.

The next step is to identify the desired length of the skirt. Put on the tank top and use a measuring tape to determine the length at which you want the skirt to fall. Mark this length on the tank top using fabric chalk or pins, remembering to account for the waistband and hem. If you want to modify the shape or fit of the skirt, you can do so at this stage. For example, you can taper the sides for a more fitted look or create a flared silhouette by widening the bottom.

Now it's time to cut the tank top. Align the bottom edge of the garment, ensuring that it is even all the way around. Smooth out any remaining wrinkles or creases. Using sharp fabric scissors, carefully cut along the marked line or pins that indicate the desired length of your skirt. Take your time and make precise cuts to ensure a clean and even hemline. Remember to cut slowly and double-check your measurements and alignment before cutting to avoid any mistakes or accidental snipping of the fabric. Once you've made your cuts, set aside the top portion of the tank top, as you may be able to repurpose this fabric for other projects.

At this point, you will have a fabric tube that will serve as the base for your skirt. The next step is to create a waistband by measuring and cutting an elastic band to fit comfortably around your waist. You can then attach the waistband to the fabric tube, gather the fabric, and try on the skirt to ensure a comfortable fit.

Sewing the skirt

Now that you have your tank top and skirt fabric ready, it's time to attach them together! Here's a step-by-step guide on sewing the skirt to your tank top:

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Skirt Fabric

• Decide on the desired length of your skirt and measure it on the tank top. Add an extra inch to this measurement to allow for adjustments.
• Measure the waist circumference of the child by wrapping the measuring tape around their waist, about half an inch above where you want the skirt to start. Double this measurement and add another half inch.
• Using these measurements, cut your skirt fabric accordingly. You should end up with a rectangular piece of fabric.

Step 2: Prepare the Skirt Hem

• Fold the bottom edge of the skirt fabric by a quarter of an inch and press it with an iron.
• Fold it again by another quarter of an inch and press it to create a neat hem.
• Sew along the folded edge to secure the hem in place.

Step 3: Create Gathering Stitches on the Skirt

• Set your sewing machine to its longest stitch length.
• Sew a gathering stitch along the top edge of the skirt, about a quarter of an inch from the top. Leave long thread tails at the beginning and end without tying them off.
• Gently pull on the threads to gather the fabric and adjust the gathers until you're happy with the volume.

Step 4: Attach the Skirt to the Tank Top

• Place the skirt inside out on a flat surface with the gathered stitch side facing up.
• Take the tank top and place it inside the skirt, also inside out. Ensure that the bottom of the tank top is closest to you.
• Match the side seams of the tank top and skirt, pinning them together.
• Pin the rest of the tank top and skirt together, placing pins about an inch apart if the fabric is stretchy.

Step 5: Sew the Skirt and Tank Top Together

• Using a zigzag stitch or a serger, sew the skirt and tank top together, using the gathering stitch as a guide. Sew about a quarter of an inch below the gathering stitch all around the skirt.
• Try on the dress and adjust the fit as needed. You can adjust the gathers or the length of the skirt to achieve the desired look.

Step 6: Finish the Waist Seam

Zigzag stitch or serge around the waist seam to reinforce the fabric and prevent it from falling apart in the wash.

Feel free to add any decorative elements, such as ribbons or ruffles, to the skirt for a personalized touch. Now you have a beautiful tank top dress!

Attaching the skirt to the tank top

• Take your skirt and flip it inside out. Lay it on a table with the gathered stitch closest to you.
• Take your tank top and put it inside the skirt, also inside out. The bottom of the tank top should be closest to you, and the right sides of both the tank top and the skirt should be facing each other.
• Find the side seam on both the tank top and the skirt. Match them up and pin them together.
• Pin together the rest of the tank top and skirt. If the tank top is very stretchy, pin it every inch or so to prevent stretching while sewing.
• Sew together the skirt and the tank top. Use your gathering stitch as a guide and sew 1/4 inch below your gathering stitch all around the skirt to attach it to the tank top.
• Zigzag or serge around the waist seam to reinforce the fabric and keep it from falling apart in the wash.

And that's it! You've successfully attached the skirt to the tank top. Now, simply finish the dress by adding any desired embellishments, such as ribbon, ruffles, or ric rac.

Hemming the skirt

Preparation:

• First, try on the skirt and decide on the desired length. You may want to adjust the hem based on your personal preference.
• Use a measuring tape to determine the length from the bottom edge of the skirt. Mark this length with fabric chalk or pins. Ensure that the marking is consistent all around the skirt.
• Carefully trim any uneven edges or excess fabric to ensure a clean and straight hemline. Take your time and make small, precise cuts as needed.

Sewing the Hem:

• Fold the fabric at the marked line, creating a small fold. You can use an iron to press the fold in place, ensuring a neat and crisp edge.
• Pin the fabric in place along the entire hemline to secure it and maintain an even fold.
• Using a sewing machine or needle and thread, stitch along the folded edge to secure the hem in place. Choose a stitch that is suitable for your fabric and provides a neat finish.
• Once the hem is securely stitched, remove the pins from the fabric. Give the skirt a final check to ensure that the hem is even and well-sewn.

Finishing Touches:

• Try on the skirt to check the fit and length. Make any necessary adjustments to the hem or the overall style of the skirt.
• You can add decorative trims or embellishments such as lace, beads, or ribbons to the hem if desired. This is a great way to add a personal touch to your creation.
• If you want to create a more polished look, consider finishing the raw edges of the hem with a serger or zigzag stitch to prevent fraying and ensure durability.

Frequently asked questions