How to Make a Criss-Cross Crop Top That's Perfect for Summer

Tools and materials:

• Gingham top
• Ruler
• Sewing materials
• Marking tool
• Fabric scissors
• Iron
• Pins
• Safety pin

1. Cut your top into two strips of fabric

You need a flat surface in order to patchwork the pieces into the length that you need them to be, which you can achieve by cutting the top open.

The goal is to make a long rectangular shape that is 37 inches by 20 inches, and then two thinner rectangles that are 2 inches by 34 inches for the drawstrings.

I had to attach two strips in order to have one long piece. 

2. Fold the large rectangle and sew it together

Take the large rectangle and fold it in half so the backside is facing you. Then, sew a straight stitch across the opening with a seam allowance of 0.25 inches.

3. Fold the thin rectangle in half

Fold the thin rectangles in half and pin. Then sew across the open edge with the stitches facing you.

4. Turn the drawstring inside out

Sew one end, then using a thin pencil or paintbrush, push it out so you have the front side of the folded drawstring facing you.

5. Iron and sew

Iron both the drawstring and the rectangle to flatten. To do this, fold the ends down, iron them, and then sew across. This will make a tube for our drawstring.

6. Sew in the drawstring

Attach a safety pin to the end of the drawstring, then push it through the tube. Do this on both sides. This will create a lovely ruched effect.

How to make a criss-cross crop top

Here’s the finished DIY criss-cross crop top! The only difficult part might be doing the patchwork in order to get the measurements you need, but other than that, it’s super short and easy to do!

I’m absolutely in love with it and the many ways I can wear it. Let me know what you think!