Tank Top Straps: Creative Ways To Lengthen Them

Tank top straps that are too long can be a common issue, especially for those who are shorter in stature. The good news is that this problem can be easily fixed through adjustments. This can be done by sewing the straps, either by hand or with a machine, or by using a nifty safety pin trick to shorten the straps without sewing. This text will provide a step-by-step guide on how to fix tank top straps that are too long, ensuring a perfect fit for your top.

Adjusting tank top straps using a DIY tutorial

If your tank top straps are too long, you can adjust them yourself with a few simple tools and techniques. This is a common issue for people of shorter stature, as the straps can cause the neckline of the top to be too low. Luckily, this is one of the easiest garment adjustments to make. This method works well on tank tops with straps that are wider than a bra strap. For thinner straps, it is recommended to shorten them at the back of the garment.

Tools

You will not need many supplies to shorten your tank top straps. Here is what you will need:

• Straight pins or safety pins
• A sewing machine (optional)
• A needle and thread for hand sewing (if you don't have a sewing machine)

Steps to Adjusting Tank Top Straps:

• Pin the Shoulder Straps: Start by pulling the shirt up at the shoulder seam until the strap is the desired length. Pin at the shoulder. Do this on both sides. Note that this may not be an equal amount taken from each side of the existing seam. Check the armpits and neckline to make sure you haven't shortened the straps too much.
• Cut the Excess Fabric: Ensure the straps are the same width at the pinned area. Then, cut the excess fabric off of each strap, leaving some fabric above the pin for a seam allowance (about 1/2 inch).
• Stitch the Straps: Flip the shortened strap so that the pieces are right side together and pin them in place. Stitch across the strap where the pin was. If your tank top is made from stretch fabric, you don't need to use a stretch stitch as this part of the garment likely won't need to stretch much.
• Press the Seams: Open the seam and press the seam allowances flat to the sides of the seam. Then, topstitch them in place. A zigzag stitch or other stretch stitch is not necessary for this small area.
• Final Checks: Turn your tank top to the right side, and your straps should now be adjusted to the perfect length! Check that the neckline and armholes are now comfortable and that the straps are secure.

No-Sew Method

If you don't want to sew your straps, there is a makeshift solution that involves using safety pins to gather the excess fabric. Here are the steps:

• Determine Excess Strap Length: Figure out how much of the strap length is excess by trying on the garment and adjusting by trial and error.
• Turn Garment Inside Out: Turn the tank top inside out and lay it flat with the backside facing up.
• Gather Fabric with Safety Pin: Gather the fabric on the sharp end of the safety pin. You can make three "waves" of fabric for a neat gather.
• Close Pin and Adjust: Close the pin and rearrange the gathered fabric neatly. Make sure you have gathered enough fabric. If not, create another "wave" to shorten the strap further.

With either of these methods, you can now wear your tank top confidently, without worrying about straps falling off or an uncomfortable neckline.

Shortening straps without sewing

No sewing? No problem! Here are some ways to shorten straps without needing to stitch:

The Strap Saver

This nifty product is a no-sew solution to adjusting straps on bras, bathing suits, strappy dresses, and tank tops. It's easy to use and can be purchased in different colours and sizes. Simply locate the adjuster clip on the back of your garment, pull the strap through to create a loop, and then place the loop through the widest part of the Strap Saver before hooking the narrow part around the strap. This method also works to tighten stretched-out straps.

Safety Pin Method

This method works well for spaghetti straps and involves using safety pins to create fabric gathers. First, determine how much excess strap length you need to shorten by trial and error. Then, turn the garment inside out and lay it flat with the backside facing up. Gather the fabric on the sharp end of the safety pin, making three "waves" for each strap. Close the pin and rearrange the fabric neatly. Turn the garment right-side out, and the pin should be hidden by the gathered fabric.

This no-sew method is a quick fix for straps that are too long. However, it may not be suitable for all types of garments, especially those with multiple layers. It's also important to note that the safety of this method hasn't been road-tested, and there is a chance the pin could open during the day.

Using a pin to secure straps

If you're looking for a quick, temporary solution to secure your tank top straps and prevent them from falling off your shoulders, using a pin or safety pin can be an effective method. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Determine the Excess Strap Length: Start by trying on your tank top and assessing how much excess strap length you need to adjust. Pull the shirt up at the shoulder seam until the strap is your desired length. You can do this by pinching the fabric or sliding your fingers along the strap to find the ideal length.

Step 2: Prepare the Pin: Choose a pin that is long enough to secure the excess strap length. Straight pins or safety pins can be used. If you have a safety pin, open it and lay it flat, ready for the next step.

Step 3: Gather the Fabric: Turn your tank top inside out. With the backside of the garment facing up, gather the excess fabric on the sharp end of the pin. You can create small "'waves'" or folds in the fabric to shorten the strap. Make sure you have enough fabric gathered to achieve your desired strap length.

Step 4: Secure the Pin: Once you're happy with the length, carefully close the pin, ensuring that the sharp end is not exposed. Neatly rearrange any gathered fabric around the pin. Check that the pin is secure and doesn't poke out.

Step 5: Adjust and Check Fit: Turn your tank top right side out again and carefully adjust the straps to ensure they sit comfortably on your shoulders. Check that the pin is not visible and is covered by the gathered fabric. You may need to adjust the number of "waves" or the amount of fabric gathered to achieve the desired length and fit.

This method is a simple and effective way to temporarily secure your tank top straps if they are too long. It is a good option if you don't want to sew the straps or make permanent alterations to your garment. Remember to check the security of the pin throughout the day, as it may need occasional adjustments.

Racerback option for tank tops

Racerback tank tops are a great option for those who want to show off their shoulders and back. This style of tank top leaves the back and shoulders bare, making it perfect for layering over a sports bra or any bra with straps you don't mind displaying. Racerback tank tops are available in a variety of styles, from athletic moisture-wicking options to casual, loose-fitting designs.

When choosing a racerback tank top, it's important to consider the brand and sizing to ensure you get the right fit. For example, Bella+Canvas offers both fitted and flowy racerbacks in various fabrics, from cotton to super soft tri-blends. If you're looking for a true women's fit, District is a good option, as their racerbacks are known for their feminine fit that flatters without being too tight. On the other hand, Next Level products tend to run small and are more fitted, catering to a younger demographic. For a budget option, you can choose from brands like Gildan, Port & Company, or Sport-Tek, but keep in mind that the quality may not be as high.

Racerback tank tops are also available in a range of materials and weights, from lightweight 4 oz options to heavier 8 oz tanks. You can find racerback tank tops made from cotton, polyester, or tri-blend fabrics, each offering a different level of comfort and performance. Some racerback tank tops also come with built-in bras, providing additional support during workouts or other activities.

Whether you're looking for a stylish layering piece or a functional workout top, racerback tank tops offer a versatile and flattering option. With a variety of brands, sizes, and styles to choose from, you can find the perfect racerback tank top to suit your needs and preferences.

Sewing machine options for shortening straps

If you have access to a sewing machine, shortening tank top straps is a quick and easy process. First, put on the tank top inside out and pull it up at the shoulder seam until the strap is the desired length. Pin the strap at the shoulder on both sides. Check the armpits and neckline to make sure the straps haven't been shortened too much.

Next, cut off the excess fabric, leaving some fabric above the pin for a seam allowance (about 0.5 inches). Flip the shortened strap so that the pieces are right sides together and pin them in place. Stitch across the strap where the pin was. If your tank top is made from stretch fabric, you don't need to worry about using a stretch stitch as this part of the garment likely won't need to stretch much.

If your tank top is made from woven fabric, you may want to add fray check to the raw edges to prevent fraying. Finally, open the seam and press the seam allowances flat to the sides, then topstitch them in place. You don't need to use a zigzag stitch, serger, or other stretch stitch for this part, as it is a small area. And that's it! Your tank top straps are now shortened and your top fits perfectly.

Frequently asked questions