DIY: loose tank to a pretty blouse


I don't think y'all have any idea how GOOD it feels to be posting a DIY again. Man it's been awhile! Today I'm showing you guys how to make a loose-fitting top into something that's a little more structured and flattering.

1//Decide where you want your elastic to be (I recommend having it sit at your natural waist line) then cut about 1/2" below it. I did this by trying my shirt on and making a little snip right below the line of my natural waist, then cutting all the way around the top after taking it off.
2//Add elastic to the bottom portion of the top. I pinned the elastic at four different spots (picture 1) then sewed it on using a zigzag stitch. You'll have to bunch up the fabric while sewing which will give it a pleated look.
3//Next we're going to put the right sides together with the bottom portion of the skirt facing upside down. If you know what I'm talking about, GREAT! But when I'm following instructions that start talking about right sides and wrong sides and whatnot I start getting pretty confused, so I've included pictures of how to do it! Start with the pieces flat on the floor and separated a little bit. Take the bottom portion and start folding it over onto the front of the top piece, then do the same for the back.
4//Start pinning the top and bottom pieces together. Sew. I also trimmed the bottom of my tank to a length that is more flattering for my shorty self (not pictured). The shirt I was working with was jersey so it was as simple as cutting it off and throwing it on! T-shirt material is just awesome like that.

Sooo in more DIY news: I've got a guest blogger coming to My Billie in the next week or so who will be showing you how to do a simple (but effective) adjustment to vintage clothing, plus I'll be sharing how-tos for tailoring pieces to fit you better! Can't wait to share those with you guys!

15 comments:

Amy Louski said...

This is a great diy especially because I have some tank tops that I am sick of looking at. Good diy and a great way to refresh a wardrobe.

Kitty said...

Nice one! Your hair looks so cute too!
x

Chloe Verde said...

what an amazing idea!! Pretty good for people that have recently lost weight too, instead of throwing away some favourites.


chloe
www.bythelock.com

Pony Chops said...

such a cute and simple idea and it makes such a difference!

Kyla said...

I LOVE this idea, and what a difference it makes! I have a few tanks that could definitely use some TLC like this...

Katia said...

This kinda takes simple DIY to another level - like instead of just cutting up a Tee, this is really cool! I love how it turned out too!

xo
http://kittysnooks.blogspot.ca

Kira said...

Awesome DIY! I love the final product, and pretty simple too. Plus I already have the elastic :)

Biancarosa said...

Brilliant DIY definitely want to try this out to some old clothes :)

Biancarosa
xoxo

http://beancah.blogspot.co.uk

Tereza said...

it looks great, what a sweet diy!

andrea said...

First I have to say your hair is lovely! I am having major hair envy right now :)

Also you did such an amazing job on that shirt. It looks great!

Midwest Muse said...

This is so awesome and simple! I need to try this and your boots are beautiful.

Roni E. said...

Oh, snap! I didn't know there was actual cutting/splitting the shirt in half involved. You are wayyy advanced at this sewing thing. I mean, again, I probably would have cut the thing in half and then been like, "uhhh" as I held it up. Maybe some stapling or super gluing would have come next to repair. haha
Great job, Melanie, you crafty lady, you.
P.s. Every time I see a picture of you, I get major hair envy.

The Craft-Arty Kid said...

This is a great idea! A better alternative to just putting a belt on to make a top more fitted

Jessie said...

Very cute! I hate sewing though,...but would love to get over it. lol I will look forward to the guest post because I am so little that I can't wear vintage. :(

thecupthief said...

Love this. It looks great on you! xo L

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