Morning by Morning Productions: Tank Wraps

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Tank Wraps

I haven't a clue what to call these, so "tank wraps" it is. I like layers, but I don't like to roast to death. Enter the tank wrap, a cool way to add texture, color, and interest to any summer outfit.

A tank top and a cardigan all rolled up into one, with a bit of shiny bling to complete the look.

I used a very lightweight knit for these, and I hand dyed them. These colors make me think of two things, beach houses and sherbet. Summer at its finest, in my opinion!

I've moved multiple times in my life, but I've always lived within driving distance of the beach.
Ever since I was a kid, I've always loved looking at all the bright and pretty colored houses that line beach roads.

They don't have them so much here, but where I grew up in Florida there is endless miles of them. I love pretty colors! So, here is how these tank wraps look wearing them.

Want one? Of course you do! Here is how, and this is a "one size fits most" deal. The smaller you are, the more flowy it will be. First off, cut out these pieces. The lighter weight material you use, the better. (the black is the front pieces, the red is the straps, and the purple is the back panel)

Sew the front two side pieces to the back panel. Sew a gathering stitch across the top of the two front pieces. I used a serger to sew the larger seams. If you use a regular machine, I would suggest using a very, very narrow zigzag stitch and a longer length stitch. Machines have a tendency to want eat thin fabric, and the longer stitch will help the pressure foot to jump over the fabric better.

Take the strap pieces and sew them right sides together and turn. You should have two tubes of fabric like so.

Sew the gathered sections to the straps and topstitch.

You'll need a two inch size mettle ring at this point. * Quick tip: I have found the best selection of different size rings at the best price in the plumbing section of the hardware store. My apologies to all the plumbers in my town for cleaning out their stock of supplies. Just as a forewarning, you probably will have just smile graciously at the weird looks you get from men actually shopping for, you know, plumbing parts for the purpose of plumbing. You will probably also have to assure about a dozen different employees that you are indeed in the section you wish to be, and no, you don't require their assistance.* Back to the task at hand, loop the other end of your straps around the ring and sew.

Find the center of the back panel and mark it.

Loop it around the mettle ring and tack it down. I don't sew a straight line, because I like it to look draped rather than stiff.

I did not hem, because this fabric and style didn't require it.

These are going to go in my Etsy Shop, so if sewing isn't your thing, you can always find one there. In case you happen to be still enjoying the remnants of winter...please enjoy what you have while it lasts. I got at least forty mosquito bites just while snapping these pictures. Warm weather isn't always what it's cracked up to be. Enjoy the rest of your week, see you on Friday!

Psalms 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.