Introduction: How to Craft a Custom Fit Button-Up Shirt for Summer

By KiaDIYlife
About: I just love to make things and sharing that with whoever want to know.

Hey my crafty creatures! Today, I'm excited to show you how to create your own custom button-up shirt. This project was inspired by a thrifted piece that caught my eye, and I decided to put my own spin on it. Let's dive into the process.

Supplies

  • Fabric of your choice (preferably lightweight and breathable)
  • Contrasting fabric (optional)
  • Sewing machine
  • Thread
  • Scissors
  • Pins
  • Buttons
  • Iron
  • Measuring tape
  • Fashion rulers
  • Pattern paper
  • Marking tool (e.g., chalk or fabric marker)

Step 1: Designing the Pattern

Start by creating your pattern pieces based on your measurements and design preferences. I used my dress form to help me make my original pattern. I began with two main pieces for the front and back of the shirt to.



Step 2: Making Adjustments

After creating a mockup using muslin fabric, I realized some adjustments were needed. I added extra space to the front and back and flared out the sides for a better fit.

Step 3: Cutting the Fabric

Once the pattern adjustments are complete, trace and cut out your fabric pieces. I used a lightweight fabric with a slight stretch for comfort.

Step 4: Sewing the Pieces Together

  • Begin by sewing the darts on the front pieces. Start at the edge of the fabric and sew inward till you gradually sew of the fabric.
  • Press the darts facing down to hold them in place.
  • Sew the front and back pieces together along the side seams.
  • Remember to finish the edges with a serger to prevent fraying.
If you don't have a serger you can use a zig zag stitch on your sewing machine to get the same effect

Step 5: Adding the Facing

  • Serge the bottom edge of all the facing pieces so the don't fray.
  • Sew the side seams together for all 3 pieces
  • Attach the facing to the neckline and armholes of the shirt. Sew along the edges and clip the curves for a smooth finish.

Step 6: Creating Button Loops

  • Take your strip of fabric and fold it in half. Then sew about 1/4 inch from the folded edge, down the length.
  • Trim of the rest of the fabric to about 1/4 inch.
  • Use A loop turner to turn the strap right side out.
  • Press the string to make it lay flat.
  • Cut small 2 1/4 inch strips of string for the button loops. fold them in in half so the seams are facing inwards, and attach them to one side of the front piece.
  • Starting 4 inches from the bottom I mark every 2.5 in for the buttons and loops
  • I use a basting stitch to hold each loop in place before sewing the facing to the front

Step 7: Sewing the Facing to the Fashion Fabric

  • Lay you fabric and the facing so that the right sides of the fabrics a facing each other.
  • Pin or clip the fabrics along the neck and arm holes to make sure the are lined up evenly.
  • Sew 1/2 inch from the edge all the way around each seam. Make sure to leave the shoulder seams undone, they will be closed later.

Step 8: Closing the Arm Hole

  • Flip the front should right side out on both sides.
  • Press the seems at the very end so the can lay flat
  • Insert the shoulder into the back shoulder making sure the right sides are facing and are not twisted
  • Sew 1/2 inch seam allowance to attach the shoulder together.
  • Clip into the curves, be sure not to cu through the seam allowance so that it can lay flat when it is turned right side out
  • Repeat this for the neck and arm holes before flipping them right side out and press the seam flat.

Step 9: Hemming and Finishing Touches

  • Topstitch around the front, neck, and armholes to hole everything in place.
  • Serge, fold and hem the bottom edge of the shirt to finish it off.
  • Sew the buttons to the marked spots from the pattern
  • Clip any loose thread that might still be on the garment.

Step 10: Final Thoughts

I'm thrilled with how this custom button-up shirt turned out! It fits perfectly and has a unique denim-facing detail. I'm thrilled with how this custom button-up shirt turned out! It fits perfectly and has a unique denim-facing detail.


I hope this step-by-step guide inspires you to create your own custom garments. Stay tuned for more sewing adventures, and happy crafting my crafty creatures!

Step 11: Video