I often look at fast fashion websites to get sewing inspiration. I saw a tank top that I loved with gathered straps and tabs around them that reminded me so much of the Pamela Top tank version, I thought “I can easily make that,” so off I went. This is such a small addition that gives it a fun new look.
Getting Started
If you don’t have it already, you can purchase the Pamela Top HERE! Print and assemble your pattern using the tank top cut lines, tank armband pieces, sweetheart neckline, and the corresponding neckband pieces.
Follow the tutorial for the tank version and sweetheart neckline to sew your Pamela tank top entirely. This includes adding all bands and topstitching if you choose to do so. (Ignore the back seam in my photos, I had to get creative to make the pieces fit my fabric.)
Gather the Straps
- Measure the strap along the neckline from the shoulder seam down to the corner of the sweetheart point.
- Mark the center of the strap with a pin or clip.
- Place a pin or clip on the opposite side of the strap directly across from the first one.
- Repeat on the other strap.
- Sew two rows of gathering stitches across each strap where you have marked the center starting just inside the armband and stopping just before the neckband. Do not sew on the bands.
- Gently pull the bobbin thread to tighten the gathers.
- Thread the top thread through a sewing needle, insert the needle through the front, and pull out the back.
- Tie the bobbin and top threads together several times then cut off excess thread.
- Do this to both sides of the top thread on both straps.
- Use a zigzag stitch to sew over the gathers to secure them in place. You can remove the gathering stitches after if you’d like.
Make the Tabs
- Cut two strips of fabric 2″X6″
- Fold each strip in half lengthwise right sides together and pin.
- Use a zigzag stitch or serger to sew along the edge with a 3/8″ seam allowance.
- Turn the strips right side out.
- Press along each strip with the seam down the center.
- Fold one end into the tube to hide the raw end.
- Wrap the strip around the tank strap where it is gathered.
- Insert the raw end into the folded end and pin it in place. (If the strip is too long, cut off excess before inserting it.)
- Hand sew along the pinned edge to secure the ends of the loop.
- If it is not already, flip the loop so that the long center seam faces inward, and the loop seam is on the backside of the strap.
- Pin the hand-sewn seam to the backside of the strap.
- Again, by hand, sew only the back part of the loop to the tank strap.
- Repeat on the opposite strap.
You’re Done! Pretty cute, right?
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