How to Make a Bra Out of a Tank Top in 8 Simple Steps
If you have an old tank top that you no longer wear or use, why not give it a new life by transforming it into a bra?
Not only is this a sustainable way to repurpose clothing, but it can also save you money and provide you with a unique and personalized piece of lingerie.
In this article, we will guide you through how to make a bra out of a tank top in a simple and easy DIY project.
Materials Needed
- Tank top
- Scissors
- Needle and thread or sewing machine
- Elastic
- Measuring tape
- Pins
How to Make a Bra Out of a Tank Top
Step 1: Choose the right tank top
The first step in turning a tank top into a bra is to choose the right top. Select a top that fits you well and has a supportive fabric.
A tank top made of cotton or jersey fabric may not provide enough support to be turned into a bra.
Look for a top with a spandex or nylon blend that has a tighter fit.
Step 2: Put on the tank top
Wear the tank top and determine where you want the bottom of the bra to be. Mark it with chalk allowing a one-inch seam allowance.
Step 3: Cut the top
Once you have selected the right tank top and marked it, it is time to cut it, to create the bra shape.
Lay the tank top on a flat surface and start by cutting the straps off the top. After that, cut a straight line across the bottom of the top on the earlier marked points, to remove any excess fabric.
Thereafter, holding your scissor, cut out a triangle-shaped piece of cloth from individual cups of the tank top.
The size of the triangle should be based on your cup size, so measure and mark the triangle shape before cutting. Keep in mind that it is better to cut a smaller triangle at first, as you can always make it larger later.
See also: How can I make my sports bra more supportive?
Step 4: Add elastic to the cups
After cutting the cups, it is time to add elastic to create support.
Cut out an elastic piece whose length reciprocates that of the top of the cup. Then, pin the elastic to the top of the cup, stretching it slightly as you go.
Sew the elastic in place using a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine or by hand using a needle and thread.
Step 5: Create the band
To create the band of the bra, cut a strip of fabric from the bottom of the tank top that is about 2 inches wide. This will be the band that goes around your torso.
Measure the length of the band by wrapping it around your torso, and then cut the excess fabric.
Step 6: Add elastic to the band
Once you have cut the band, it is time to add elastic to create support.
Cut out an elastic piece keeping in mind that its length should match that of the band. Pin the elastic to the top of the band, stretching it slightly as you go.
Sew the elastic in place using a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine or by hand using a needle and thread.
Step 7: Attach the cups to the band
Pin the cups to the band, making sure to align them properly. Sew the cups to the band using a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine or by hand using a needle and thread. Remember to stretch out the elastic while sewing to achieve a secure fit.
Step 8: Add Straps
Finally, it is time to add the straps to your new bra. You can use the straps that you removed from the tank top in Step 3 or create new straps from the leftover fabric.
Cut two strips of fabric that measure 1” W by 10” L each. Fold each strip in half lengthwise and sew along the long edge. Ensure that the straps are positioned right side out, and then sew them to the top of the cups.
See also: How do you wear a bra without showing the straps?
Congratulations! You have successfully turned a tank top into a bra. Try on your DIY bra to determine if it fits well.
FAQs about Making a Bra Out of a Tank Top
Can any tank top be turned into a bra?
It is best to choose a tank top that has a tight and supportive fabric, such as spandex or nylon. Cotton or jersey fabric may not provide enough support to be turned into a bra.
What do you need to make your own bra?
Basic sewing skills are all that is required, and you can even sew the bra by hand if you do not have access to a sewing machine.
Can I make a strapless bra from a tank top?
Yes, you can make a strapless bra by cutting the straps off the tank top and adding elastic to the cups and band for support. However, it may not provide as much support as a bra with straps.
See also: Bras for strapless wedding dress
Can I add padding to the cups?
Yes, you can add padding to the cups by inserting foam or padded inserts. Simply sew the padding into the bra cups prior to attaching the cups to the band.
How do I determine the size of the triangle to cut out of the cups?
Your cup size determines the size of the triangle. Measure your cup size and mark the triangle shape before cutting. Preferably, begin with a smaller triangle and adjust as needed.