{DIY} T-shirt to Tunic

Well it's football season!  Hurray!! 

But they don't make too many maternity sports t-shirts, so I decided to alter one I already had.

Although I'm using this as a maternity shirt, you could use this method to make a too-snug top flow a little better over curvy hips (eaiser than loosing 5 pounds, just sayin' :)

 

Here's what you'll need to make one too:

1 t-shirt to alter

1 t-shirt in coordinating color (or you could use fabric)

thread/scissors/pins

sewing machine

Step 1:  Decide how far up you would like the insert panels to go, then add 2 1/2" if you are addding the ties.  My total was 13 1/2" from the bottom of the shirt.  Cut along the side seam on both sides stopping at your mark.

Step 2:  Cut the panels.   Don't be too worried about this - measure 4 1/2" along the bottom of the fabric(or the hem of the shirt if you are using one).  Find the center of that measurement (2 1/4") and measure up 11 inches (or your desired height minus the 2 1/2").  Then cut from one edge of the bottom in a diagonal line to the 11" mark.  Repeat with the other side.  You'll have a triangle with a base of 4 1/2" and a height of 11".   Use this piece as a pattern and cut out one more triangle. 

I decided to use a shirt instead of fabric,

since it already has a nice t-shirt hem that would match the existing shirt.  If you are using fabric, you will need to hem the edge of fabric that will run along the bottom of the shirt.

If you would like to add the ties, cut out two strips, about 2 1/2" wide and 15"-18" long.

Step 3:  Pin one of the triangles right sides together along the cut side seam.  Be sure to line up the bottom edges.  When you get to the top of the triangle, place the tie there as well,

 right side down, and pin it on. 

Sew these pieces onto the shirt using a knit stitch ( looks like a lightening bolt). 

 Go slowly and be sure that your fabric doesn't roll.

Step 4:  Turn the shirt inside out.  Pin the other edge of the side seam to the other edge of the panel - right sides together - include the seam part of the tie.  Be sure that the tie itself is on the right side of the shirt.  Sew this seam using a knit stitch as well.

Step 5:  Repeat steps 3 and 4 on the other side of the shirt and you're done!

Comfortable clothing in no time at all!

Happy Football Season!!

xoxo

jessica