How to Sew Underwear: Cute Matching Tank Top & Panty Set

Elegra Margiela
by Elegra Margiela
7 Materials
$20
2 Hours
Easy

I’m going to be showing you how to sew underwear with this cute little DIY underwear set! This is a beginner-friendly tutorial, so it’s relevant for any sewing enthusiast who wants to learn how to make a tank and panty set!


All you need is the underwear sewing pattern. The best part is it comes in multiple sizes so that you can sew your underwear set with the best size for you. Let’s get started.

Tools and materials:

  • Tubular knit fabric
  • Stretchy lace
  • Underwear pattern
  • Rotary cutter or scissors
  • Sewing machine
  • Pins
  • Matching thread
Underwear sewing pattern

1. Make the underwear sewing pattern

When you get the PDF pattern, you’ll need to get the pattern printed at your local Staples or print shop. It only cost me $15, but it was totally worth it since it was printed on two big engineering rolls.


As you can see, this is the underwear portion of the pattern; there are multiple sizes for you to choose. 

Cutting out the underwear sewing pattern

I’m cutting the medium size out since that’s the size that will suit me best. 

Cutting out the tank top pattern

Do the same for the tank top. 


Tip: Before we cut out the pattern, let’s quickly talk about the kind of fabrics I used for this project. I used a stretchy knit fabric and stretched lace for this project. The instructions state that you should use a four-way stretch fabric, which makes sense since you’ll need it to pull up over your body. 

Laying the paper patterns on the fabric

Go ahead and lay your patterns on your fabric, making sure it’s on the fold as instructed. Then, cut around. I would recommend using a rotary cutter for accuracy. 

Cutting out the underwear pattern

I had to cut two pieces for the underwear as I didn’t have enough fabric to cut on the fold. So, make sure you have enough fabric to start with; it will make your life a little easier. 

Cutting out the lace

Now, cut the lace for each pattern piece as well. 

Lace underwear pattern

I luckily had enough fabric to cut the lace underwear on the fold. 

Connecting the crotch seam

2. Assemble the DIY underwear set

For the panties, I’m going to connect the crotch seam. Remember, I didn’t have enough fabric to fold. Skip this step if it’s not relevant to you. 

Choosing fabric and stitches with a stretch

Tip: When sewing the underwear and tank top, make sure to set your sewing machine to a stretchy straight stitch. If you do not have this option, use a zigzag stitch with a stretch. 

Attaching the lace to the knit pattern

Attach the lace tank top pattern to the knit pattern. Sew all around the edges. Repeat for the second piece, too. The goal is to make them into one piece. 

Sewing the lace pieces to the knit pieces

Repeat the same process with the underwear. Sew all around the edges and make sure everything is aligned before doing so. 

Pivoting while sewing the curves

Be sure to pivot at each curve or corner. 

Pinning the tank top at the side and shoulder seams

Once the lace and knit are attached, go ahead and attach the second knit piece. Pin the side seams and shoulder seams. Ensure both pieces are right sides together. 

Pinning the underwear pieces together

Next, pin the second underwear knit piece on the sides, as shown. 

How to sew underwear at home

Next, fold the edges once (or twice, depending on how you’d like it to be), and sew with a zigzag stitch. 

DIY tank top as outerwear

I like that you can somewhat customize this pattern to suit your preferences. You’ll notice my straps are thicker than the pattern’s; I only folded the hem over once. 


I wanted something a little more secure, and that’s why I made it bigger. Feel free to do the same alteration if you’d like something thicker. If you want a slim fit, then fold over twice. 

Using a straight stitch to flatten the seams

Next, do a straight stretch stitch to flatten the seams on the sides of the underwear and tank top. 

Wearing the DIY tank top


How to sew underwear

How to sew underwear tutorial

Alright, here’s the finished look. You can totally wear the tank top as everyday wear, too! Or, turn the whole set into a cute loungewear vibe!


I hope you enjoyed this tutorial on how to sew underwear; it was so fun and definitely worth it. Thanks for joining me! 

Suggested materials:
  • Tubular knit fabric
  • Stretchy lace
  • Underwear pattern
See all materials

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