Did you ever consider that stretch lace could be used to sew up a simple tee shirt? It just takes the right pattern and a few small sewing modifications! Here, I’ve used this lovely stretch lace in “Naughty Navy”.
When choosing a pattern for a stretch lace tee, here are a few guidelines:
- Keep the number of pattern pieces to a minimum–a style with just front, back and sleeve pieces will work better than one with many style lines.
- Bust darts are okay!
- A jewel or boatneck would work best, but you can also modify a favorite pattern to have the neckline of your choosing.
- Look for a style without closures.
- A semi-fitted style would be most appropriate.
- Sewaholic’s Renfrew top (omitting the waist and sleeve bands, and maybe raising the neckline)
- Colette’s Mesa top (via Seamwork), made as a dress or shortened to a top.
- Vogue 9205
- Burda 6749 or 6820
- New Look 6150 (View D)
- McCalls 6927
- Butterick 5215
In addition to the stretch lace fabric, you will also need about 3/4 yd of lining fabric, in a lightweight knit (such as lightweight cotton, rayon, or bamboo knit). Choose a contrast or matching color; here I went with this peachy knit fabric to highlight the design in the lace.
Step 1: Cut your pattern pieces (front, back, sleeves) from lace. I made some fit adjustments and widened the neckline, but otherwise stuck pretty close to the size Small for this pattern.
Step 2: Cut the front and back pieces from your lining fabric. No need to line the sleeves!
Step 3: If your pattern has bust darts, sew them now in both the lace and lining.
Step 4: Sew the shoulder seams of the front/ back pieces in lace. Then, sew the shoulder seams of the lining fabric. I did not include 1/4″ clear elastic at the shoulder seams, but it would be useful. If you choose to apply clear elastic, sew it into either the lace or the lining (not both).
Step 5: With right sides facing, line up the necklines of the lace and lining fabric. Sew using a stretch stitch or overlock. Lightly press on the lining side.
Bea & Lucille 
This is so pretty! Makes me want to get out my sewing machine again! Though I've never made anything from a pattern before, it seems kinda daunting…
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brilliant, its really lovely
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Looking great Nicole! I recently made a top for my daughter in a double knit that is cream lace bonded to a tan knit. It's the loveliest fabric and I wish I'd have enough for me! Your underlining idea is perfect.
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So pretty!
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Ypur top looks fab, great tutorial too
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