Do you have any shirts that are too big? I did, but then I learned how to make them into peplum shirts! I have to be honest, I have already made two of these. They just turned out so adorable!

What you will need:

Sewing Machine.

Large t-shirt.

Fabric Scissors.

Tissue Paper or Kraft Paper.

Headpins.

The finished product!

At a Glance: From T-Shirt to Peplum

1. Start by measuring your waist (typically the smallest part of your abdomen).
2. Once you have measured, you will need to look at this circle chart to get the measurements for what size your circle pattern should be: http://s646.photobucket.com/user/pigmentshop/media/cl001.jpg.html
3. Now you will want to make a pattern! I used Kraft paper. The first measurement was 4.5 inches and the second measurement was 6 inches. (Be very precise with this part.)
   

   Making your pattern

4. Before you cut out your pattern, measure again. (I was off in a few areas and needed to double-check myself.)
5. Now line up your pattern on your shirt and be sure to use headpins once it is where you want it. ( I cannot cut straight to save my life and I was extra careful through this process.)
   

   Pin your pattern and start cutting!

6. Once you have cut out your pattern, flip the pieces to be inside out and line up the seams with headpins to prepare to sew them together.
   

   Line up the seams to sew!

7. I used my Express peplum as my “pattern” for where to cut the sleeves and sides. I suggest tracing a little bit out from where your “pattern shirt” lines up to make sure it isn’t too tight after you’ve sewn it.
   

   If it isn’t perfectly straight, trim it a little later.

8. My piece was actually wider that the larger piece so I had to make creases close to the seams so that it would sew smoothly. Even if you don’t line it up perfect, you can always use a seam ripper to fix it. It is worth it! Now that your pieces are all sewn, you need to line up the seams on both parts. This part is very tedious because jersey material can be a pain, so use lots of needles and go slowly…or you might need to seam rip a few like I had to 😉
   

   Now that you’ve sew the pieces separately, line up the seams to sew them together.

 

Try it on! What do you think of how it turned out? I hope you enjoyed making your peplum! I can’t wait to wear mine.

Make sure to show me your creations! Can’t wait!

 

 
Warmly,
Lauren