Part 2: Adding a Mesh Back to X Factor!

In Part 1 we looked at how X Factor works as a workout tank. So now let’s take a crack at cranking things up a little!!!

Why Mesh?

I live in Ottawa and while we DO get a lot of winter, I have it on experience and good authority that EVENTUALLY it will be warm here again – hot even. And I will tell you for free that no one gets excited about warm weather like Canadians.

When it’s really hot out it’s awfully nice to have a cooler option for a workout tank. Still supportive but allowing some air flow!

BOTH of the tanks I posted yesterday have the same fabric for the X – a single layer of mesh!

A Quick Word About Mesh

It’s important to know that not all mesh is created equal. When you are using a mesh fabric for an accent piece, you really want to use something like an athletic mesh.

I used this type of athletic mesh for mine because it’s sturdy and breathable. Any mesh that you might use as an accent piece on leggings or any other piece of clothing should work well! Just make sure to steer clear of like dance mesh or lining mesh.Since it’s a single layer of fabric you want to make sure it will hold up and not be prone to picking or tearing.

How do you do it?

If you are familiar with the X Factor pattern, you will know that normally you would cut two X pieces (a main and a lining) and assemble them wrong sides together with your pattern. In this case, we want to use only ONE layer of mesh instead of two. It is a super easy switch but it does change HOW the pattern is put together.

1. Cut your pieces as directed by the pattern

Instead of cutting two of the X pieces, cut only one out of the mesh fabric.

2. Assemble both the lining and front layers as directed in the pattern

Serge the side seams of the front piece to the LOWER back piece. Do not attach the X yet!

3. Now you are going to stack your shoulder seams to sew them as follows:

Lay your outer bodice fabric, right side out with the front facing you.

Place your X layer on top of it, right side facing DOWN.

Place your LINING fabric on top of the X, right side facing down. Essentially you will have a three layer sandwich. The right side of your bra top facing the right side of your lining fabric, with the X fabric in between.

Don’t worry at all about what is happening with the backs and the rest of the front and lining pieces. Just let them lie on top of each other. They will sort themselves out after the shoulder seams are sewn!

4. Sew or serge both shoulder seams.

When you have finished, flip your lining fabric to the inside and let the X form the back of your top. Notice that now the single layer of mesh fabric forms the back of your top and the seams are all enclosed neatly. No chafing happening here!

Now you can continue with the tutorial as written! When you bind your X piece you will simply be binding a single layer of fabric instead of two. Go slow and bind carefully.

Now go rock your lovely tank!

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Comments

Betsy Adkins says

May 8, 2020 at 10:27 am

Looks great! Where did you find the athletic mesh?

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