Try making a crop top out of a t-shirt, an old button-down dress shirt, or a form-fitting tank top. [2] X Research source Make sure to choose a shirt you are okay with cutting up! It will look very different after you are finished with it.
You may want to have a friend help you with this part. Ask them to trace a line going all the way around the top where you want to crop it.
Make sure that there are no jagged edges! It is important to cut the shirt cleanly for best results.
If you are making a crop top out of a button down shirt, reserve the fabric on either side of the front edges of the shirt where the buttons and buttonholes are located.
Remember, you can always cut off more fabric for a lower neckline, but you cannot add it back on. Cut only a small amount at first and then try it on before you cut any more.
To create openings in the sides of the shirt in the underarm area, cut out a longer sleeve opening.
If you prefer a v-neck shape, then cut a 4 in (10 cm) strip along the crotch instead. [9] X Research source
Try the leggings on again before you cut them any more! You can also use capri style leggings or bike shorts to make a short-sleeved crop top.
Avoid fabrics that are bulky or rigid, such as wool, pleather, and velvet.
Measure the area around your waist where you want the bottom of the crop top to fall. For example, if you want the crop top to end at your belly button, then measure around this area. Measure at the widest part of your bust and upper arms.
For example, if your bust measurement was 34 in (86 cm), waist was 29 in (74 cm), and the distance between the 2 is 13 in (33 cm), then your rectangles would need to be 17 by 14. 5 by 13 in (43 by 37 by 33 cm). Add 1 in (2. 5 cm) to each of these measurements only if you plan to hem the fabric. Cut along the lines you have drawn on the fabric to ensure an even cut.
For example, if your arm circumference is 16 in (41 cm) and you want 6 in (15 cm) sleeves, then cut 2 rectangles that are 16 by 6 in (41 by 15 cm). Make sure to add 1 in (2. 5 cm) to each of both measurements if you plan to hem the fabric. Follow the lines you have drawn on the fabric to ensure that you cut it evenly.
The zigzag stitch is the best option for sewing stretchy fabric since it will stretch with the fabric.
Cut the excess threads from the edges of the sleeves after you finish sewing the seams.
Make sure that the fabric is folded so that the raw edges will be hidden on the inside of the shirt. Fold the raw edges towards the wrong (back or inside) of the fabric. Cut the excess thread after you finish hemming the shirt.
Cut the excess thread when you are finished, and then try on your crop top! It is finished! Crop tops are useful for the petite. A crop top might end to your waist. You can wear it with a high-waisted bottom with high-waisted jeans, high-waisted pants, high waisted skirts so that you do not show your skin. It is better not to wear a longer t-shirt underneath because it is not in keeping with the purpose of a crop top that is supposed to be a short piece.
