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

Slow Fashion Style
by Slow Fashion Style
8 Materials
$10
1 Hour
Easy

Today, I’m going to show you how to make a criss-cross crop top by upcycling a gingham shirt. I’ve been seeing this drawstring top all over the internet and I just knew I had to make it.


So, if you want to know how to make a drawstring crop top, let’s get started! Plus, there’ll be plenty of fabric leftover so you can make a scrunchie or headband to match.

Tools and materials:

  • Gingham top
  • Ruler
  • Sewing materials
  • Marking tool
  • Fabric scissors
  • Iron
  • Pins
  • Safety pin
Turning the gingham top into a long piece of fabric

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. 

Folding and sewing the large rectangle

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.

Folding the thin rectangle

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.

Turning the drawstring inside out

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.

Ironing the fold to make the casing

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.

Sewing the drawstring into the casing

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 drawstring crop top
Crisscross crop top DIY


How to make a criss-cross crop top

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!

Suggested materials:
  • Gingham top
  • Ruler
  • Sewing materials
See all materials

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