T-shirt Reconstruction, Transform an Oversized T-shirt into a Fitting Sleeveless Shirt

Excellent sleeveless T-shirts are made by cutting the sleeves off T-shirts, but baggy T-shirts never work that well even if the shirt is cut to fit the shoulders. Gaping armholes and baggy middles make the sleeveless T-shirt useless outside the gym. This article will depict the men's variant of the oversized T-shirt to fitting sleeveless craft.

For this T-shirt reconstruction craft, the following is needed:

T-shirt(s)

Scissors

Sewing machine

Model shirt

(The model shirt is a sleeveless T-shirt that fits well, usually a cut off T-shirt of a smaller size.)

Begin the oversized T-shirt reconstruction by laying the T-shirt out flat. Lay the model shirt on top of it, lining up the collar and sides. If the bottom is too long here, there are three options. You can leave it, cut it, or hem it. If cutting, leave an extra one to two inches to allow for the cloth to curl. If hemming, leave a half inch extra for the hem when cutting.

From the shoulder, cut down into the T-shirt, parallel to the armhole of the model shirt but a half inch out (wider) to allow for the cloth to curl over. At the end of the armhole, taper out so the cut is 90 degrees from the starting angle. This allows for a normal looking armhole.

Cut from this cut downwards using the side of the model shirt as a guide. Rather than cut along the edge of where the model shirt is, cut out a quarter of an inch so as to allow cloth for the hem. Repeat with the other side.

Turn the T-shirt inside out and, with the sewing machine, sew the sides together. Start at the bottom if leaving the original hem, trimming the armhole should the sides be uneven. Should the bottom be cut, it is easier to begin at the armhole and trim the bottom if necessary. Hem the bottom if applicable.

You now have a fitting sleeveless T-shirt! Save the sleeves for recycling into headbands.