Reversible Tank Top DIY Tutorial

Today I have a fun and simple DIY project to share.

This is the perfect first clothing project for a sewing beginner as it requires no pattern, doesn't need a closure of any kind, and should need no alterations.  I recommend using lightweight wovens or lace materials for this project.

First you will need to grab a flowy (or oversized) tank top from your closet.  Pick something that you like the fit of.  The two most important things about your reference tank top should be that you can get it on easily by just pulling it on over your head and that the fabric has little to no stretch.  Since the tank top you are making will fit both of these criteria, it is important that your reference does as well.**

In order for your front and back pieces to be the same shape, you will only use the front portion of the tank as your reference.  Start by folding the fabric you want to use for one side in half.  Place the center of your reference tank top on the fold line.  Pin around the edge if necessary to keep it in place.  Then just simply follow the outline of your tank top with your scissors, but cut about 1/2" away from your reference tank for seam allowance (see photo below).  Cut with an extra 1/2" all the way around your half tank top piece.  Once finished, open the fold and you have your front piece!

For your back piece, pick a fabric of a similar weight, but use a different color or print.  Just use your front piece as your pattern to cut this piece out.

Then get to sewing! Put right sides together and sew the shoulder and side seam pieces using a 1/2" seam allowance.  I just pressed the seam allowance open and then used a zigzag stitch to finish the edges afterward.

Then to finish the neckline, armholes, and hem, you can do it one of two ways.  You can fold your edge over about 1'4" and then fold it over again 1/4"  and top stitch so you have a very clean edge (see below photo).

Or if you just want to get this thing finished, you can fold it over 1/2" and top stitch close to the edge (see below photo).  The fabrics I used won't fray much so this technique is fine for my tank and is a lot faster.

Now you have a versatile tank top that can be worn two ways!

The lace is sheer so I photographed the tank as it would be worn (with a layering tank underneath).

Can be worn belted too!

If you have any questions about the process, feel free to e-mail me at kiralynnpdx@gmail.com.

-Kira

**You can follow this tutorial for a fitted tank as well with a few changes.  Just make sure the fabric you use is a stretchy knit like a jersey and use a fitted tank as your reference.  When you sew your seams and finish your edges, be sure to use a small zigzag stitch instead of a straight stitch so it has a bit of stretch.