I knew my little Ruby would probably not fit into the small kids' tees from WhoopTee but we had one sent over anyway because I had this DIY in mind. It turned out better than I hoped and looks darling over a pair of jeggings and a cardigan now that it's getting cooler outside.
After holding the t-shirt up to Ruby's chest to check on design placement I cut off the neckline and sleeves so that there were no more seams. It was still too big so I cut another 1" off the shoulder height and made it thinner by cutting about 1" off the outside shoulder, rounding a new armpit hole, and angling my cut down to the bottom of the shirt. You can see the difference in the two sides above. I checked my fit again but you can also use another well-fitting dress or top as a template. Fold your shirt in half length-wise to use the first side as a guideline for the other side.
Next, I turned my shirt sides right side in and matched up the shoulders and corners and pinned. I don't have a surger so I used a short zig-zag stitch to stitch along the shoulders and sides leaving the arm holes, neck hole, and bottom free.
Finally, I cut off the bottom seam, measured it on Ruby and then cut up into the shirt about 3" all the way across. I told her it was extra special because Mama made it for her and she was all about stripping down to change into it!
You can do the same with any tee that is at least 2-3" wider than your child's body but the bigger your shirt the more you'll need to rely on a template such as another well-fitting tank dress. Thanks again to WhoopTee for sending over shirts with my custom design! If you'd like a chance at your own be sure to share your favorite shirt story in the comment section of this post before September 23rd.
-Rachel
I'm Rachel Denbow, an author, e-course writer, maker, craft stylist, and general DIY enthusiast. 
