Split-Back Tank

4.02.2013


I took a little personal time the other month and left work early to shop at the marketplace at the Sewing and Stichery Expo.  Unfortunately, I had forgotten that I have an extremely low tolerance for crowds and after about one hour all I could think was "get me the hell out of here!"  Fortunately, I was able to pick up one or two great things before I high-tailed it for the closest door.  My favorite find was some ombre batik fabric.  Not only are the colors gorgeous, but the hand on this fabric is lovely and much less stiff than regular quilting cotton.  In fact, I fell so madly in love with this fabric that I bought one yard in this color way (which is bluish) and then I finished off a bolt in a gray color way.  I'm hoping that the gray fabric will one day magically be turned into a dress for me.  I'll add it to the ever-expanding list of things that I'd like to get around to making one day. 


But back to this little top.  It's based off of Grainline Studios Tiny Pocket Tank but it's altered to have a split-back to make it a wee bit more fun (yet another "business in the front, party in the back" top).  I followed this tutorial on how to turn the tank into a split-back and based on what was written in the tutorial I cut out one size smaller than was recommended because I was concerned about the top being too loose because of the open back.  I was still worried about this when sewing the top up and I ended up taking an additional 1/4 of an inch in on each side.  Even though I cut out a size 2 this time though, I kept the tank a size 8 in length because after two pregnancies I don't need to be showing anybody my stomach, thank you very much.


After sewing everything up it became apparent that even with the modifications the tank still appeared too loose and shapeless because of the open back, so sewed up half of the back opening by stitching down the back hemline (just like Natasha did in the tutorial).  Problem solved!   In fact - note to self - this would have been a much better solution than trying to sew a significantly smaller size in the first place.  You live, you learn.


Now go and enter your own shirt in Rae's Spring Top Sewalong!  Go on now!

13 comments:

  1. Looks great! I just made my own version of the split back tank for the Spring Top Sewalong and am enjoying the variation!

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  2. I love it! I might totally copy you, I could use a little party in my life :)

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  3. First, you are awesome. Second, I want to be half as amazing at sewing clothing as you. I solemnly swear to make at least one garment before the end of the month. LOVE that fabric!!!!

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  4. Oh, that's totally cute! And that fabric is very, very lovely. Get ye onto making that dress :)

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  5. Pretty fabric, love it! And I also hate crowded expos, I've been beaten one too many times by a little old lady with a walking stick than I care to think about at those things, so now I just order from the comfort of my own home ;o)

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  6. Ooh, love it! Love that fabric, and I love this style on you. Everyone needs a top with some party in the back!

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  7. Omigosh it's awesome. You're awesome. I love this so much.

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  8. I am totally coping this shirt, but then sadly cannot enter the spring top sewalong--because I would so obviously be cheating, because you so obviously are going to win!!

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    1. oops, there are no winners this year. regardless, you're a winner in my book!

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  9. That's so adorable! You're rockin' the open back, lady!

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  10. I've been gone from my blog for awhile, but just saw your comment. This tank that you made is amazing! I'm super impressed and that fabric is gorgeous!

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  11. I love your tank!
    Colour and everything, i'm really impressed!
    Tx for sharing,
    MammaNene
    SergerPepper.blogspot.it

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  12. This reminds me of a tank I had when growing up that was mom made! I love it!

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