The cross front hack is a quick and easy hack to spice up any lower neckline style top. I used the Sara Everyday Tank and Dress pattern for this, but this works with so many other patterns! Some other options to try it with are the Easy Tee, Mandy Fitted Tank, Rosanna Tank and Dress, and Gloria Peplum and Dress to name a few.
First things first
You will first need to choose your pattern, print, assemble, and cut out your pattern pieces. You will need to make sure whatever pattern you choose, you cut out the low or scoop neckline. In addition to your regular pattern pieces, you will need to cut two strips that will be the criss-cross part of the top. You will need two rectangles that are 1 3/4″ X 10″.
Now that you have all your pieces ready to go, follow your pattern’s instructions to construct your top. Do not topstitch the neckline of your top.
Adding the cross front
Now that your beautiful shirt is all constructed and ready to go, we are going to add some flare!
Take those two strips you cut out earlier and fold them right sides together the hot dog way. Sew all the way down the long edge with a stretch stitch or serger.
Use a turning tool or safety pin to turn them right side out. Flatten them out, seam side down, and iron.
The next part is going to be the placement of your criss-cross straps. I tried this two different ways and they both worked out.
Option 1:
- Lay your top out flat facing up.
- Measure down from the shoulder seams 4″ on either side and mark.
- Next, find the center point of your front neckline and mark it.
- Measure over 3″ on either side of it and mark.
- Lay your strips out crisscrossed and pin onto the underside of your neckline where you have previously marked.
- Carefully try it on to make sure placement is where you want it and make any adjustments necessary. You should have excess fabric hanging off. That’s totally fine, we will cut that off at the end.
Option 2:
Put the shirt on and pin the straps where you like them. (Most likely while looking in a mirror) Adjust them as needed.
Almost there!
All that’s left to do now is to attach the straps to your neckline. I chose to topstitch all the way around my neckline. Try it on one last time. If everything is perfect, cut off any extra fabric from the straps, and you are ready to go! You’ve successfully achieved your very own cross front hack.
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Nice job! I may have to try this.