Upcycling a Tank Top: Let's Add Sleeves to a Simple Crocheted Top
Hey guys! If you’re looking for ideas for upcycling tank tops, you’ll want to follow along to see my latest tank top upcycle!
I'm going to show you how I transformed a simple crocheted tank top by adding sleeves made from a pashmina.
Thrift flip clothes are my specialty. I love repurposing and bringing new life to tired old clothes. This project is perfect for anyone who wants a little more coverage and a unique, stylish look.
Upstyle Recommends!
Tools and materials:
- A strappy tank top or dress
- A pashmina or fabric (enough to create two sleeves)
- Dress form (optional) or a box (to use as a substitute)
- Pins
- Scissors
- Sewing machine or hemming tape
- Iron
1. Prepare your workspace
First, I like to set up my workspace by placing my tank top on a dress form.
If you don’t have one, you can put it on a box that’s about the same size as the shirt. This will help us visualize how the fabric will lay. Make sure the tank top is facing inside out.
2. Cut the pashmina
Next, fold the pashmina in half and cut it down the middle. This will give you two equal pieces of fabric, one for each sleeve.
3. Pin the fabric
Take one piece of fabric and align one corner with the shirt's side seam.
With the right side of the fabric facing in, start pinning it along the strap, continuing around the strap until you return to the side seam.
The fabric should now be pinned in place, forming the shape of an open sleeve.
4. Sew the fabric
Now it’s time to sew! Sew the fabric to the top, securing it along the path you have pinned.
Afterward, try the top on to see how the fabric sits. If necessary, trim any excess fabric to shape the sleeve just right.
5. Final adjustments
Once you’re happy with the shape, press the fabric with an iron so it lays flat.
Then, pin and sew the edges of the sleeve together.
If the fabric is delicate, like my pashmina, hemming tape can be a great alternative to sewing. I simply align the tape with the seam and iron it to secure it.
6. Repeat for the second sleeve
Finally, repeat the same steps on the other side to create the second sleeve.
Upcycled tank top
Thrift flip ideas are my favorite way to get the creative juices flowing. In just a few steps, I’ve turned a simple tank top into a stylish, one-of-a-kind piece with a bit more coverage.
I love how this upcycle tank top project turned out, and I hope you enjoy upcycling your tank top as much as I did.
Don’t forget to leave a comment so we can chat and exchange thrift flip tips and ideas.
Next, learn How to DIY a Cute Vintage Upcycled Bag.
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