It doesn’t matter what time of year it is, you can never have too many tank tops. The problem is that it can be hard to find a flattering size or a unique design which is why we have compiled a list of the best tank top sewing pattern available. There are so many to choose from which means you do not have to spend time searching and there is plenty of variety. Often a simple design, these can be tackled by a beginner sewer although there are a handful of designs that add a touch of flair.
Let’s start with a classic. This has that simple design and airy feel that everyone wants from a tank top, and is easy to make. Ideal for a workout, this has a good amount of coverage where you want it and leaves the arms to be able to work hard.
It has a flattering look to it and is not too tight around the midsection – something a lot of store-bought tank tops can be guilty of. The design is easy to follow and it can easily be completed in an evening.
More at: Sew Much Ado
Here is another popular tank top sewing pattern for women, the back is what makes this unique. We like the cross design as it adds a little texture and style to what is actually a simple pattern.
The instructions make it easy to get that fitted feel on the shoulder and chest area with a fit that is flattering for all sizes. Speaking of, there are measurements for different sizes from XS to XL. It only requires up to 1.5 yards of fabric to complete making it a great project for using leftover fabric.
More at: Life Sew Savory
A lot of people think of summer when it comes to tank tops and who can blame them. This one is tailor-made for those warm months and can be made with two fabrics that might complement one another, or use the same one for a consistent look.
The reinforced shoulders make it durable and the cut is flattering with enough room for it to not hug the midriff and keep you cool. It is available in sizes ranging from XS to XL and works perfectly with almost any kind of knit fabric.
More at: Life Sew Savory
Another twist on what is otherwise a basic design, the gathered back looks great and makes this seem more complicated than it is. If you are like a lot of other people, you are likely to spend a lot of time in tank tops during the summer so you can never have enough.
Because this is a quick project to finish, expect to be able to make several in one sitting. The shape at the front is simple and there is an instructional video that takes you through every step as easily as possible. It comes as a free downloadable pdf with easy-to-follow instructions.
More at: Life Sew Savory
Filing this under the basic category is easy since the steps are simple and it doesn’t take long to make.
Although the design in the example is small it is easy to make the relevant adjustments to find the ideal size. It doesn’t look like much but we like a simple tank top to throw on when we feel the need.
There are large pictures to guide the way and an instructional video to help, there is a lot to like about this yoke tank.
More at: Life Sew Savory
We love the simplicity of this pattern and the zipper isn’t hard to sew if you have a little experience.
Even if you don’t, this is a good opportunity to practice a useful skill on a garment that is easy to make. We like the floral fabric used and think something similar would be ideal.
There is also a tutorial on how to sew the zipper so it is a good one to try. The light feel is nice when on and it is easy to get on and off thanks to that zipper.
More at: The Home Steady
Use a cotton jersey material to make a tank top that can be worn any day of the week. This is ideal for layering or keeping yourself cool in the warmer months.
You only need a yard of fabric and a few essentials to get going and because there is a video tutorial, this is as easy as they come.
The free, printable pdf is easy to use, and once you have made some bias tape you are well on your way to having a great racerback tank.
More at: Online Fabric Store
Going to the gym or for a jog around the park is always so much better when done in comfort. This is an ideal solution when you are working up a sweat as it has the right balance between comfort and coverage.
It allows you to get plenty of airflows when you are racking up the miles and they advise using a cotton jersey because it stretches well. The step-by-step guide is easy to follow thanks to the large pictures and simple instructions. The cute tie at the back gives it a little flair making sure that this is no ordinary workout tank.
More at: Online Fabric Store
This is a great way of turning a basic tank into something that looks a little dressier. You get all the benefits of the comfortable tank that has a flattering fit and when made with the right material, stretches nicely. The materials should cost a maximum of $3 so this is a great way of making multiple tops and stocking up the wardrobe. The process is made easier with the step-by-step guide that has plenty of pictures and useful tips that can be used when making other tank tops.
More at: Sew Petite Gal
We like the thick shoulder straps of this tank that give it a flattering look along with the gathered front providing some much-needed texture. For anyone who wants something more than a plain tank, this is a good place to start.
It can be made in a range of sizes and features princess seams on the side and back.
This is designed to have a slimming effect and can be made a little looser for those looking for a relaxed fit. Ideal for a beginner, it looks great without taking too much effort to make.
More at: So Sew Easy
The wide boat neck on this tank looks good enough to wear to a restaurant but it is relaxed enough to make sure there is plenty of comforts. With only a meter of fabric needed, this is a great way of making a fashionable tank top without having to spend the hefty prices that the stores charge.
The floral design is a good one and should inspire others to follow suit but it is perfectly reasonable to make this in a plain, neutral color to ensure it can complement any outfit.
More at: The Bears Four
This camisole tank is about as airy as you could hope for. With its thick straps and flowy feel, it allows plenty of air to reach the body when the sun is blazing. The pattern is free and downloadable so you can get started from the moment you choose this tank top sewing pattern.
You’ll need around a yard of fabric depending on the size, and there are a few to choose from to make sure you get this right. It is possible to add a lace trim if you want to take the decorative element even further and the video tutorial explains how to adjust the sizing.
More at: Melly Sews
With a reinforced shoulder and a flattering cut, this is a great free tank top pattern that is quick to make.
The only issue is that it is only in one size with no suggested grading but if you know how to make the right adjustments then this can make an excellent project.
It can be used with a knit or cotton blend for best results and is great for throwing over your swimsuit on the beach or on other occasions where you want to lounge in the sun.
More at: Simple Simon and Company
With a super comfortable scoop neck and a relaxed fit, this is an amazing everyday tank top.
The pattern is free, and there are numerous comments from people who enjoyed making it. It is ideal for a beginner as there isn’t any crazy skill involved and it won’t take a long time to go from the printing of the pattern to the wearing of the tank.
It is hip length, and there are plenty of sizes to choose from.
More at: Itch to Stitch
Another great tank top because of its versatility. It can be worn with shorts and dressed down or tucked into a pair of jeans if the occasion suits. With no serger needed to complete the job, there are options for customizing it to the user’s taste.
It can have a crop tank line if required and there are different ways of finishing the back. We also like that there are numerous sizes to choose from with everything from XXS to XXXL. With so many ways to tailor this to your style, the key west tank is a great pattern.
More at: Pattern Niche
For something a little trendier, this halter top features a fashionable V-neck and a flattering fit.
This is the sort of sewing pattern that anyone can attempt so even if you are still getting to grips for your machine, this is a good place to start.
There is nothing complicated about it and the instructions help to walk the user through the process. The instructional video is ideal for those who need to have each stage explained in more detail.
More at: Ellie and Mac
If you like your clothes handmade, then this is a must-have addition. The striped design is flattering and the cut is the type that means it can be worn anywhere.
Combine it with a gathered skirt and enjoy the lightweight feel that has apple coverage without being restrictive.
The available sizing is 1-10 and there are plenty of suggested fabrics over on The Foldline where this pattern can be found.
More at: The Fold Line
Anyone who likes their tanks loose will love the flowy feel of this design. There are a knit binding finish and a raw hem for as much swing as possible. Included are two lengths to choose from in this free tank top sewing pattern and any form of stretchy fabric should be great for this type of tank.
The printable pdf pattern is designed to be printed on A4 so there are no excuses as to why this cannot be given the short time required to make it at home.
More at: Helens Closet Patterns
The best thing about this pattern is that it is easy to follow and there are no complicated stages. This makes it a good project for a movie that is looking to develop their skills and make their own garments. Using drawstrings and a little fabric, this is a good pattern for using leftovers and a bit of fabric.
There are only 9 steps to follow which are all made easy with large pictures and simple instructions. There is no need to overcomplicate things, and this is a pattern that shows how easy making a tank top from scratch can be.
More at: Sew Guide
If you want to repurpose an old shirt, then what better way of putting the fabric to good use and making yourself a tank. There is usually plenty of material to work with and you are left with a pleasant button-up tank.
The example uses a chequered shirt but we are more of a fan of something plain or floral as it seems to work better. The good news is, you can have everything you need to hand without having to leave the house. There are 4 easy steps to follow to go from old shirt to new tank.
More at: Cotton and Curls
This fitted tank is light and easy to love with thin straps and is available via two downloads. The first is the printable pattern and the second is the instructions that are easy to follow.
This is a project that any novice can take on and no matter what the skill level, everyone needs a few of these around.
With US sizes 6-14 included there are plenty to pick from and can be made out of a large t-shirt if you do not have any of the right fabric to hand and are eager to give it a try.
More at: SoZo What do You Know
For an extra layer, so a guy can go about his day in comfort, this is a great men’s tank top sewing pattern. It features a deep neck crew and large armholes to make it extra comfortable and is the sort of comfortable top that can be worn on a summer’s day or using a workout.
Find a fabric with moderate stretch to ensure it is a snug fit and has plenty of movement. The printable pdf is complemented by in-depth instructions to make this an easy project, but a rewarding one.
More at: Thread Theory
With ages 3 – 16 covered, this is a great tank top sewing pattern that the family can enjoy. Whether your kids are too cool to be seen in matching clothes or not, this can be used in different ways and is easy to follow.
The suggestion is to repurpose old shirts and we like the sound of turning the old into something new, especially considering the rate kids grow out of their clothes. There are two pattern pieces plus binding and that is the bulk of the making part of this cute and easy girls knit tank.
More at: Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom
With sizes that range from 18 months to 10 years, this is a great pattern for giving your boy something cool to wear in the summer. Since they tend to go through clothes like they are going out of fashion, this is a great way of masking a handful at a time so they always have something to replace the one they just got mud all over!
The process is simple and no amount of rough play is going to make you wish you had not bothered so why not give this pattern a try?
More at: Life Sew Savory
Much like the boy’s tank, toddlers seem to dirty all their tops, often on the first wear! Making a few of these will help you to stock up and it is a good idea to keep the pattern to hand since they grow so fast you may need to make some more in a bigger size before too long.
It looks cute, is simple, and makes a great addition to the summery drawer full of bright clothes ready to keep your young ones cool. The step-by-step guide features big pictures to make the sewing as easy as possible so you are left with a nice toddler tank and time to spare.
More at: Zunes Sewing Therapy
