This up-cycled beach top is simple to makes and looks super cute! It requires absolutely NO sewing and can be made in less than 30 minutes. The top could be worn over a T-shirt or just alone. A great use of an old T-shirt!

Step 1: Gather Your Materials!

an old T-shirt
6 big fat beads
scissors

Step 2: Cut Off Sleeves and Bottom

Cut off the sleeves and the bottom portion up to where your rib cage begins (just above your belly button).

Step 3: Cut the Neckline

Cut a V-shaped neckline through both sides of the shirt making sure to not leave any of the current stitched neckline. Note it is easier to make a straighter neckline if you first mark it with a ruler and then cut. If you don't like the V-neck for this top you could also make it rounded or square.

Step 4: Cut the Back

Turn your shirt over and mark about 3 inches from the bottom. Then CAREFULLY cut a staight line on only the BACK SIDE of your shirt. Then cut only the side ABOVE where you just cut up to where your shirt's sleeve used to be.

Step 5: Cutting the Sides and Straps

Lay your shirt out so the right side is facing the down. Then cut a straight line all the way up to the top of the shirt starting after the back band (see picture with white cut line). Next cut a straight line from the neck up starting at the very outer parts of the neck line. At the end of this step your T-shit should look something like the picture above.

Step 6: More Cutting of the Straps

Cut the back strap in half and turn your shirt over. Now cut each of the straps into 3 more straps stopping a where the strap meets the main body of the top.

Step 7: Braiding the Straps

Each of the straps is now cut into 3 meaning you can braid them. But first string three of your beads onto each side of the upper straps. Then beginning braiding all of the top and bottom straps. Once you can't braid much more simply tie the rest of the braid into a secure knot.

Step 8: All Done!

To wear the top let the bottom portion sort roll up by it self and tie the braids to secure, but not so good that you can't get it off! Enjoy your new halter top! (Personally, I like the top with a plain T-shirt under it because it's a bit more modest.)