How to Craft a Custom Fit Button-Up Shirt for Summer

Hey my crafty creatures! Today, I'm excited to show you how to create your own custom button-up shirt. This project was inspired by a thrifted piece that caught my eye, and I decided to put my own spin on it. Let's dive into the process.

• Fabric of your choice (preferably lightweight and breathable)
• Contrasting fabric (optional)
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Scissors
• Pins
• Buttons
• Iron
• Measuring tape
• Fashion rulers
• Pattern paper
• Marking tool (e.g., chalk or fabric marker)

Start by creating your pattern pieces based on your measurements and design preferences. I used my dress form to help me make my original pattern. I began with two main pieces for the front and back of the shirt to.

After creating a mockup using muslin fabric, I realized some adjustments were needed. I added extra space to the front and back and flared out the sides for a better fit.

Once the pattern adjustments are complete, trace and cut out your fabric pieces. I used a lightweight fabric with a slight stretch for comfort.

• Begin by sewing the darts on the front pieces. Start at the edge of the fabric and sew inward till you gradually sew of the fabric.
• Press the darts facing down to hold them in place.
• Sew the front and back pieces together along the side seams.
• Remember to finish the edges with a serger to prevent fraying.

If you don't have a serger you can use a zig zag stitch on your sewing machine to get the same effect

• Serge the bottom edge of all the facing pieces so the don't fray.
• Sew the side seams together for all 3 pieces
• Attach the facing to the neckline and armholes of the shirt. Sew along the edges and clip the curves for a smooth finish.

• Take your strip of fabric and fold it in half. Then sew about 1/4 inch from the folded edge, down the length.
• Trim of the rest of the fabric to about 1/4 inch.
• Use A loop turner to turn the strap right side out.
• Press the string to make it lay flat.
• Cut small 2 1/4 inch strips of string for the button loops. fold them in in half so the seams are facing inwards, and attach them to one side of the front piece.
• Starting 4 inches from the bottom I mark every 2.5 in for the buttons and loops
• I use a basting stitch to hold each loop in place before sewing the facing to the front

• Lay you fabric and the facing so that the right sides of the fabrics a facing each other.
• Pin or clip the fabrics along the neck and arm holes to make sure the are lined up evenly.
• Sew 1/2 inch from the edge all the way around each seam. Make sure to leave the shoulder seams undone, they will be closed later.

• Flip the front should right side out on both sides.
• Press the seems at the very end so the can lay flat
• Insert the shoulder into the back shoulder making sure the right sides are facing and are not twisted
• Sew 1/2 inch seam allowance to attach the shoulder together.
• Clip into the curves, be sure not to cu through the seam allowance so that it can lay flat when it is turned right side out
• Repeat this for the neck and arm holes before flipping them right side out and press the seam flat.

• Topstitch around the front, neck, and armholes to hole everything in place.
• Serge, fold and hem the bottom edge of the shirt to finish it off.
• Sew the buttons to the marked spots from the pattern
• Clip any loose thread that might still be on the garment.

I'm thrilled with how this custom button-up shirt turned out! It fits perfectly and has a unique denim-facing detail. I'm thrilled with how this custom button-up shirt turned out! It fits perfectly and has a unique denim-facing detail.

I hope this step-by-step guide inspires you to create your own custom garments. Stay tuned for more sewing adventures, and happy crafting my crafty creatures!