If anyone knows me they know I love a good back detail. Somewhat of a surprise when someone turns around, a unique back detail is a great way to elevate any basic! In this DIY, I take an old boy’s long-sleeve tee and make it into a super cute and trendy top which will have all your friends asking where you bought it.
With the top being quite covered in the front, the open back adds a sexy flair and unexpected twist to the crop top. This can definitely be done to a short sleeve or sleeveless top as well. Its the perfect tutorial for a quick thrift flip! With minimal sewing, this DIY packs an impact with little effort!
TIME | 30 mins – 1 hour
COST | $
DIFFICULTY | Easy
Video Tutorial:
What you’ll need:
- Long sleeve top (preferably with some sort of stretch quality)
- Shoe laces or ribbon (something to create the tie)
- Sewing machine (but can be done by hand)
- Matching thread
- Scissors
Steps:
- Modify the top to fit tightly to your body. For mine, I took in the sleeves and sides of the top.
- Crop the top to a desired length, leaving an extra half inch of seam allowance for the hem.
- Measuring 3″ from the top of the back of the shirt; measuring two inches below the armpit seams, connect all of these three points into an arch.
- Cut out the arch and back bottom section of the top, leaving a half inch seam allowance to make the casing for the strap.
- Add in release cuts for the seam allowance at the corners of the arch.
- Hem the bottom of your top with a zigzag stitch.
- Pin and sew the arch with a straight stitch to create the casing for the strap. Making sure it is wide enough to accommodate the strap of choice.
- Taking two shoe lace, cut off one of the ends on each and sew together to create one mega long strap. Mine measures approximately 70″.
- Taking a safety pin, thread the strap into the arch. Maneuver the strap until it is even on both ends on opposite sides of the top.
- Tack the strap into place at the top most point of the arch in the back.
