You know those days when you just want to throw on something cosy but you still want to look put together? I have them more often than I want to admit, which is why I designed a beginner knit sewing pattern that makes the perfect relaxed t-shirt. It’s called The Cloud Tee and you’ll be able to sew this pattern in 1 hour.
Will you need an overlocker?
I get asked so many times whether my knit sewing patterns can be made on a normal sewing machine, and the answer is always yes! The Cloud Tee and all my other stretch fabric sewing patterns can be sewn entirely on a sewing machine or an overlocker. So if you’ve been wanting to try your first knit sewing project, I recommend The Cloud Tee because it comes together surprisingly quickly and you don’t need a fancy machine.
What do you need to get started?
For this beginner friendly pdf sewing pattern, you’ll need:
- Paper
- A printer (to print the pdf files)
- Scissors and tape (to stick the pages together)
- Pins or clips
- Stretch fabric (jersey or ribbed knit)
- Sewing machine or overlocker
- Iron and ironing board
- Ballpoint needle (for stretch fabrics)
The Cloud Tee has a relaxed silhouette that features dropped shoulders, three sleeve lengths and an oversized fit. The neckline feels on trend with a thick contrast design as well as a deep hem on the sleeves and bottom of the t-shirt. Make sure to download and print out the Cloud Tee here, you’ll be able to access all 14 sizes and use the layered pdf file to print only the sizes you’ll need.
What fabric should you choose?
Shopping for knit fabrics is one of the hardest things to do because they all very so drastically. You’ll find some knit fabrics are more slinky and drapey and others will be stiffer or more spongey. For this easy t-shirt sewing pattern, I recommend choosing cotton jersey for your first make, and then experiment with ribbed knits, viscose jerseys and any other fabric that has a stretch percentage of at least 30%. If you’re a complete beginner, stick with a more stable stretch fabric like Cotton Jersey because it’ll be easier to handle and sew. If you want to get inspired with all the variations I’ve made and fabrics I’ve used, watch my chatty YouTube sewing video.
Let’s get started sewing this pattern
The Cloud Tee comes with full step-by-step written and illustrated instructions, as well as an in-depth video sewing tutorial that you can watch here. Below is a brief guide on how to sew this t-shirt pattern incase you want to skim through it before buying. The full instructions are available to buy here. You’ll be able to see how quickly it comes together and will want to get started straight away!
Step 1: Sew the shoulder seams
Before you do anything, swap your current sewing machine for your ballpoint needle. This will prevent any skipped stitches! With right sides together, place the front and back bodice together and sew the shoulder seams. Remember you can use an overlocker or zig-zag stitch on your sewing machine for this entire pattern.
Step 2: Sew the sleeves to the bodice
With right sides together, pin the sleeve to the bodice arm hole and sew. Repeat for the other sleeve.
Step 3: Sew the side seams
With right sides together, place the front bodice on top of the back bodice and sew the under arm and side seams. You’ll notice your top is starting to come together now.
Step 4: Sew the neckband
In this pattern you’re able to choose a contrasting colour for your neckline or choose the same colour as your main fabric. You’ll want to place the neckband to the neckline with right sides together and sew it in increments so there are no puckers. It’s actually super simple to sew a neckband and the full instructions and video tutorial break this down even further.
Step 5: Hem the t-shirt
Now all that’s left to do is hem the t-shirt and sleeves. I told you it’s easy and simple enough for beginners! When hemming you can either use a zig-zag stitch on your sewing machine, or try using a twin needle to create a neater and more professional finish.
Ready to sew your own Cloud Tee?
If you’ve been searching for an easy boxy t-shirt that’s modern and beginner friendly, The Cloud Tee is literally your perfect match. I designed this sewing pattern to be enjoyable to sew and fast to whip up. Hopefully you’ll make your first knit garment in a matter of hours and realise how simple and easy it was.
