Up-Cycle Project 1: Boyfriend Tunic

You will need a men’s shirt about 2 sizes larger than the size you would like to make, 2 large buttons, and bias tape.  

Step 1:  Remove sleeves with a seam ripper, turn inside out and sew a straight line, corner to corner, at armhole.

Step 2: Place on Mannequin with back side of the shirt facing the front. Unstitch front yoke and adjust, fit along side seams leaving room to create a gathered look when belt is added. Add either a dart or pleat at waistline at the ¼ and ¾ mark. Add “belt” (sleeves), pin in place and adjust fitting as necessary.

Step 3: Sew side seams, yoke and front darts/pleats.  Fit on Mannequin.

Step 4: Adjust back according to desired fit, you may have to move the back buttons over, and sew 2 horizontal darts at V-opening so the collar lies flat.

Step 5: Pin belt onto Tunic, sew in place. Add buttons

Step 6: Sew bias tape around armhole opening.

Like the tunic but don't have time for your own DIY project? I offer custom up-cycling on my website or you can purchase this tunic via my etsy site.