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

Additional Questions

How do you wear a tank top without a bra showing?

One handy solution to prevent your bra from showing is using a **bra clip or bra strap holders**. These tiny accessories function similarly to a paper clip, holding your bra straps together at the back, especially when you’re wearing a racerback tank top. If you’ll recall the familiar, practical function of a paper clip, you’ll see how bra clip works in a pretty similar fashion, effectively holding things together and providing a neat appearance.

Do you wear a bra inside a tank top?

When it comes to wearing a tank top, whether you choose to wear a bra or not is entirely up to your comfort and personal preference. Some opt to go braless underneath backless tank tops. Otherwise, an **invisible hook bra** could prove useful. Don’t forget to check out bralettes as an option too. Bralettes often come with adorable back designs that can add a unique appeal to your tank top look.

How do people wear bras with tank tops?

If you want to wear a bra with your tank top and keep it inconspicuous, a **bandeau or strapless bra** is the way to go. They provide the necessary support without interfering with the look of your tank top. If a fitting strapless bra is a challenge to find, you might try a bra with clear straps. If you plan on wearing another garment like a shirt or cardigan over your tank top, feel free to wear any bra that suits you best.

What bra to wear with low side top?

For a low side top, the choice of bra can get a bit tricky. However, a **bra with a smaller coverage** like a bandeau or a bralette or a bra with a clear strap on the side can be great options to consider. The goal is to maintain your comfort and confidence without compromising the style of your top.