T-shirts are so quick and easy to make. Once you understand the basics, some of which I covered in this tutorial but which are covered in much greater detail in our T-shirt pattern instructions, you’ll be off and running! After you’ve made a few of them you might start to think about interesting ways you can switch them up a bit and customize them.
Here are a few ideas for you to use on the School Bus and Men’s and Women’s Metro T-Shirt patterns.
1. Use our color blocking tutorial to add a second fabric. I love the idea of combining a floral printed knit with a solid, like this:
2. Color block to add a faux raglan sleeve. I love using several tonal colors in one shirt.
3. Add a simple shoulder detail with applique or just top-stitch the raw edges of another knit fabric at the shoulders.
4. Color block with stripes going in different directions, and add a pocket
5. Lengthen the pattern to make a dress. You may also want to make the pattern a bit A-lined when you lengthen it, to give a little walking room.
6. Add stretch lace, either as a applied detail or as sleeves.
7. Alter the pattern to be A-line and add a kangaroo pocket.
8. Color block the A-line and add a hi-low hem tunic. I think I’ll give you a full tutorial for this one–it would be so fun to make, but it deserves full instructions rather than a quick description. Stay tuned!
9. Embellish with fabric, ribbons, jewels, etc.
10. Applique and embroider it.
12. Add applied details. I love the idea of a faux collar and button placket by embroidering or adding topstitched ribbon. Stretchy knit ribbon would work best, but you could also use braid or all manner of trims.
12. Add a peplum.
14. Visit my T-shirt Your Way Pinterest board for much more inspiration and ideas for styling your T-shirts.
How are you planning to customize your T-shirts?