Transforming Tees: Diy Tank Top Makeover

Turning an old T-shirt into a tank top is a great way to upcycle clothing and can be a fun arts and crafts project. It's a simple process that only requires a few tools, such as scissors, a washable marker or pen, and a sewing machine (optional). The first step is to find a tank top that fits you well and use it as a template by placing it on top of the T-shirt and aligning the shoulders. Then, you can cut the sleeves and collar off the T-shirt, using the tank top as a guide. For a more intricate design, consider cutting a deep V-shape into the back of the shirt and using fabric strips to create a racerback. You can also finish the hems with a sewing machine for a neater look, although it's not necessary since T-shirt fabric does not fray.

Cutting the sleeves off

First, lay your T-shirt flat on a table or another flat surface. Smooth out the T-shirt, lining up the seams to ensure it is super flat. If you want to be precise, use a ruler or measuring tape to mark two inches from the seam at the neck of the T-shirt on both sides. You can then mark two inches below the seam of the sleeve, on both sides. If you want a more open tank top that shows more of your rib cage, you can mark lower than two inches.

Next, cut just one sleeve off, starting at the bottom mark under the sleeve. Follow the natural curve of the sleeve seam, aiming for the mark you've made at the neck. Now, fold your T-shirt in half, lining up the neck seams. This will allow you to make an identical cut on the opposite side. You can use a pen to trace your first cut or simply eyeball it. Make your second cut.

If you want to finish the armholes with a rolled hem, cut the sleeves off outside the sleeve seam, leaving about a 1/4-inch seam allowance. This will give the armhole a little reinforcement and feel like you've added binding to it. However, if you prefer a deeper cut, you can do that as well.

Once the sleeves are cut off, you can leave the shirt as it is, as T-shirt fabric does not fray. Alternatively, you can finish the armholes with a folded or rolled hem.

Cutting the neckline

Firstly, lay your T-shirt flat on a table or surface, ensuring it is smoothed out. If you are using a tank top as a template, place it on top of the T-shirt, aligning the shoulders and the front sides of both shirts. Pin the tank top to the T-shirt to keep it in place. This will ensure a more precise cut.

Now, you can begin cutting. If you are using a template, follow the armholes and neckline of the tank top as a guide, adding a 0.5-inch (1.27 cm) seam allowance for a finished hem. If you are cutting freehand, decide how deep you want the neckline to be and mark this point on the centre of the neckline. Then, cut in a curve from the marked point on one side of the shirt, over the shoulder, and down to the marked point on the other side.

If you want a deeper or wider neckline, you can cut more fabric after you have finished cutting. It is better to cut less fabric first because you can always cut more, but you can't add fabric back.

Once you have cut the neckline, you can finish the edge with a rolled hem. Fold the fabric edge over the sleeve seam by about 0.25 inches (0.6 cm), and then fold it over again. Sew along the edge, using a thread colour that matches the T-shirt.

And that's it! You have successfully cut and finished the neckline of your new tank top.

Cutting the backside

Now for the scary part: cutting the backside! Flip your shirt over so that the back is facing you. Using the lines you drew as a guide, cut out the backside of the shirt. Make sure you only cut through one layer of fabric and not both.

If you want to create a racerback effect, you can cut the backside into a deep V-shape. Start by finding the back centre of the neckline and cut downwards, keeping the point of the V between the armholes. This will help prevent the fabric from bunching up.

For a more unique look, you can cut strips from the sleeves and use them to create ties for the back. Cut a 0.5"-1" wide strip from one of the sleeves. Depending on how far down the back you want the ties to go, you may need to cut strips from both sleeves. Gather the fabric at the spot where you want the racerback to begin and tie a knot to hold it in place. Begin winding the strip around and down the bunched fabric, tucking the short end underneath as you go. When you reach the end, tie another knot to secure it.

If you want to add a personal touch, you can bedazzle the back or cut off the bottom cuff. Get creative and make it your own!

Making ties for the back

Now for the fun part: making the ties for the back of your tank top! This is where you can get creative and experiment with different types of knots and fabric strips. Here are some step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process:

Start by cutting off the sleeves of your T-shirt. You can follow the natural curve of the sleeve seam or cut in a straight line, depending on the look you want. Just make sure to leave about a 0.5-inch to 1-inch strip of fabric attached to the body of the shirt. These strips will be used to create the ties.

Next, decide how low you want the back of your tank top to be. Cut a deep V-shape or U-shape into the back of the shirt, making sure to leave enough fabric to work with. You can always cut more if needed, but you can't add fabric back once it's cut!

Now, take one of the strips you created from the sleeves and tie it securely at the bottom of the V-shape or U-shape. This will be the starting point for your first tie.

Begin wrapping the strip of fabric around the cut edges of the fabric at the back of your tank top. Try to wrap it as tightly as possible, creating a "rope" effect. Continue wrapping until you reach the bottom of the armholes or your desired length.

Secure the end of the strip by tucking it under the wrapped fabric or tying a knot and weaving the excess back into the twist. If you need to use another strip of fabric to continue, simply tie the two pieces together and keep wrapping.

Finally, try on your tank top and adjust the ties as needed. You can also add multiple ties or experiment with different types of knots to create a unique look.

Feel free to get creative and add your own personal touches to this project. You can also decorate your new tank top with beads, sequins, or fabric paint to make it even more special.

Hemming the armholes and neckline

Preparing the Fabric:

• After cutting off the sleeves and shaping the armholes and neckline, fold the cut edges down by 1/2 inch (1.27 centimetres) towards the wrong side of the fabric. This will create a neat finish for your hem. Secure these folds with straight pins to hold them in place.
• Using an iron, press the folded edges flat. This step is important to set the crease and ensure a crisp finish. Make sure you are folding towards the outside of the garment, not the inside.

Sewing the Hem:

• When sewing the hem, use a thread colour that matches your fabric. You can sew by hand or use a sewing machine for more durable stitches.
• For sewing machine users, it is recommended to use a stitch intended for knit fabrics. This stitch looks like a straight stitch with a V-shaped break every few stitches.
• If you are sewing by hand, consider using a baste stitch. Sew a baste stitch about 6mm (1/4") in from the raw edge. Then, turn the fabric towards the wrong side and press it along the stitch line.
• Turn the edge under again by 6mm (1/4") and finger press. Sew the hem in place, gently massaging the fabric into the curve as you go. You may need to apply a bit of tension to the fold for tighter curves, like armholes.
• Your completed double-turn hem should be neat and tidy on both sides of the fabric.

Alternative Methods:

• Single Turn Under Hem: This method involves using an overlocker or serger to finish the raw edge of the fabric. If you don't have an overlocker, you can secure the edge with a zig-zag stitch to prevent fraying. Then, turn under 1cm (3/8") and press and stitch in place.
• Bias Binding: You can use bias tape to finish the armholes and neckline. Either turn the tape completely to the inside so it doesn't show, or use double bias tape to enclose the raw edge as a visible feature.
• Armhole Facing: Cut a piece of fabric that matches the curve of the armhole, sew it in, and turn it to the inside. This method creates a clean finish without any bulk.
• Lining the Garment: Cut a light inner fabric to line the entire garment. This will protect the seams and keep the outer fabric in better shape.

Remember, taking your time and choosing the appropriate technique for your skill level and fabric will result in a well-crafted tank top.

Frequently asked questions