DIY TANK DRESS from a tank top and 2 rectangles | Super easy & beginner friendly sewing project

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to create a stylish tank dress using a tank top and two rectangles of fabric. This DIY project is beginner-friendly and can be completed in just one day, making it a perfect casual summer outfit. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin sewing, make sure you have the following materials on hand:

• A fitted tank top made from stretchy fabric
• 2 meters of cotton fabric in a color that matches your tank top (or a contrasting color if you prefer)
• Sewing machine (recommended: Brother Auto Tension)
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Pins
• Thread that matches your fabric

Step 2: Measure and Prepare the Top Part

1. Wear the tank top to measure the desired length for the dress. Mark the length from the shoulder to about 3 cm above your belly button.
2. Cut the top part:
   • Draw a horizontal line at your marked length.
   • Cut along this line to create the top part of your tank dress.

Step 3: Create the Skirt Part

1. Cut two rectangles for the skirt:
   • The width should match your hip measurement (add extra width if you want more volume).
   • The length should be from 3 cm above your belly button to your ankle, plus 5 cm for seam allowances.
2. Make pockets:
   • Create a simple pocket pattern.
   • From the top of the skirt piece, mark down 10 cm where you want the pocket opening.

Step 4: Attach Pockets to the Skirt

1. Align the pocket fabric with the skirt fabric, ensuring right sides are facing each other.
2. Sew the pockets to the skirt on both sides, then sew the two skirt pieces together at the sides where the pockets are attached.

Step 5: Finish the Skirt

1. Shape the pocket:
   • Mark down 13 cm from the top of the pocket for the hand opening, then sew the sides to create a dip.
2. Hem the skirt:
   • Fold the bottom of the skirt up about 1 cm, pressing as you go, and sew along the edge to finish.

Step 6: Gather the Skirt

1. Create gathering stitches at the top of the skirt:
   • Make two loose stitches along the top edge and pull the threads to gather the fabric until the width matches your waist plus 10 cm for ease.

Step 7: Attach the Top and Skirt

1. Pin the top part to the skirt:
   • Align the top of the skirt with the bottom of the tank top, matching the sides and the center.
2. Sew the two pieces together:
   • Use straight stitching and ensure the edges are aligned.

Step 8: Add Elastic to the Waist

1. Cut an elastic band:
   • Measure a piece that is 64 cm long (2 cm shorter than your waist measurement).
2. Sew the elastic:
   • Pin and sew the elastic to the waistline, ensuring it is evenly distributed around the waist.

Conclusion

You’ve now completed your DIY tank dress! This project is not only simple but also allows for personalization based on your choice of tank top and fabric. You can experiment with different styles by using various fabrics. Enjoy wearing your new dress and consider making more variations for different occasions! Happy sewing!