A sleeveless tunic is a wardrobe must-have. With the right fabric choice, the humble sleeveless tunic can easily replace your favorite t-shirt and be suitable for a night out on the town.
Time: 30 ~ 45 minutes
Difficulty: EASY
Here it is:
DIY Sewing Projects: Sleeveless Tunic
Materials Required:
- 1-1.5 yards (depending on size)
- Coordinating thread
- Clear Ruler
- Pins
- An old tank top that fits.
- Marking tool (either disappearing ink or tailor’s chalk)
- Sharp Fabric Scissors
Measurements Required:
- Top of shoulder to desired length (mine went halfway down my thigh)

Step 1
Fold your fabric, right sides together
Step 2
Place your old tank top on top of the folded fabric and mark (using chalk or disappearing ink) 1” seam allowance around the tank.
- Start flaring out the marking at a 35-degree angle starting from the armpit if you want a flowy fit (I went this route for my demonstration tunic)
- Start flaring out the marking at a 10-degree angle starting from the armpit if you want a more fitted look.
Step 3
Cut out your fabric.

- It’s okay if your cuts aren’t completely straight, the sewing process will resolve any imperfections in fabric cutting.
- This particular Rayon/Cotton Knit was especially tough to cut because of the slinky-ness.
Step 4
Sew up the marked sides using a zig zag stitch.

Step 5
Hem the neckline, the armholes, the bottom and you’re done!
I love to style the tunic with a contrasting cardigan and flats or wedges. Refrain from wearing chunky boots with this tunic, as it can look too messy and busy. Keep it simple
This figure-flattering tunic works well with graphic patterns (like mine), and solids! If you’re not using a knit fabric, you might want to give yourself another ½” seam allowance when you sew.

Interested in becoming a fashion designer? Check this out
I love this! I am a beginner when not using explicit patterns so there are some things I don’t understand about this. (1) How do you measure an angle with a plain ruler? Do you just eye ball it? (2) How do you know how far to flare out and make sure it’s the same on the other side?
Thanks for responding Aerisyn!