Master the Art of Sewing: How To Make a Button up Shirt From Scratch (Step-By-Step Guide)

Are you prepared to elevate your sewing abilities to new heights? Learning how to make a button up shirt from scratch is a rewarding project that will elevate your wardrobe and boost your confidence. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process, from creating your pattern to adding those final touches. Let’s get started!

Understanding the Basics

Before we dive into the sewing process, let’s talk about what you’ll need. To make a button up shirt, you’ll need fabric, fusible interfacing, buttons, and basic sewing supplies. You’ll also need a pattern, which we’ll help you create.

Creating Your Shirt Pattern

The first step in making a button up shirt is drafting your pattern. You can start with a basic front and back panel pattern. If you already have a simple t-shirt pattern, that can work as a base too.

Here’s a table showing the main pattern pieces you’ll need:

Adding the Placket

The placket is the part of the shirt where the buttons and buttonholes go. To add this to your pattern, follow these steps:

1. Copy half of the front panel from the center.
2. Add extra width to the center line for the placket.
3. Make the placket about 1 inch wide.
4. Add 1 7/8 inches to the center front for overlap.

Shaping the Shirt

To give your shirt a better fit, consider these adjustments:

1. Taper the sides slightly for a more form-fitting shape.
2. Add a curve at the bottom for easier tucking.
3. Make the back slightly longer than the front.

Creating the Yoke

The yoke is the upper back part of the shirt. Here’s how to create it:

1. Divide the back panel into two pieces: the yoke and the lower back.
2. Decide on the yoke height (about 4 inches works well).
3. Add a pleat to the lower back piece for movement.

Cutting and Preparing Your Fabric

Once your pattern is ready, it’s time to cut your fabric. Remember to add seam allowances (usually 1/2 inch) to all pieces. After cutting, finish all raw edges with a serger or zigzag stitch.

Assembling the Shirt

Now it’s time for the exciting part—assembling everything! Here’s a basic order of operations:

1. Sew the back pleat and attach the yoke.
2. Create the plackets on the front pieces.
3. Attach the front pieces to the back at the shoulders.
4. Sew the side seams.
5. Attach the sleeves.
6. Add the collar and cuffs.
7. Make buttonholes and sew on buttons.

Adding the Placket

The placket requires some careful work. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cut two strips of interfacing for each front piece.
2. Bond the interfacing to the back side of the fabric.
3. Fold and press the fabric to create the placket.
4. Stitch along the edge to secure.

Attaching the Yoke

For a professional finish, use the “burrito method” for the yoke:

1. Lay one yoke piece right side up.
2. Place the back panel on top, right side up.
3. Place the second yoke piece on top, right side down.
4. Stitch across the top.
5. Turn right side out and press.

Final Touches

Once your shirt is assembled, add these finishing touches:

1. Topstitch along the placket, collar, and cuffs for a crisp look.
2. Make buttonholes and sew on buttons.
3. Give your shirt a final press.

FAQs

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve just learned how to make a button up shirt from scratch. This process takes practice, so don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Keep refining your skills, and soon you’ll be creating custom shirts that fit you perfectly.

Ready to start your shirt-making journey? Gather your supplies and get sewing! Remember, the key to success is patience and attention to detail. Happy sewing!