T-shirts & tops · Easy
Basic T-shirt sewing pattern
Fitted short-sleeve T-shirt for knit fabric. A great first project.
Choose your size
Each size has its own page with the full pattern, the cutting list and the measurements used.
Women's sizes (with bust)
Pattern preview
Sewing instructions
General steps to sew this garment. Seam allowance is 1 cm (3/8") unless stated otherwise.
Supplies
- Knit fabric (jersey, interlock or similar)
- Ribbing for cuffs and neckline
- Matching thread and the right needle
- Prewash and press your fabric before cutting so it will not shrink after sewing.
- Print the pattern at 100%, check the test square and cut the pieces following the cutting list. Transfer notches, darts and button marks.
- Cut with the greatest stretch running horizontally (around the body). Use pattern weights instead of pins so the knit does not distort.
- Sew knits with a serger or a stretch stitch (narrow zigzag) and a ballpoint needle.
- Join front and back at the shoulders, right sides together. You can stabilize the seam with clear elastic or a strip of selvage.
- Close the neckband into a loop, fold it in half lengthwise and sew it to the neckline, stretching it slightly more than the garment, matching quarter points.
- Set the sleeves in flat: match the top of the sleeve cap to the shoulder seam and ease the cap between the notches.
- Sew the underarm and side seam in one go, matching the armhole seams.
- Fold up the hems (sleeves and body) and stitch with a twin needle or zigzag so they keep their stretch.
Cutting list
| Piece | Cut | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Front | 1× on the fold | Main fabric |
| Back | 1× on the fold | Main fabric |
| Sleeve | 2× | Main fabric |
Measurements needed
| Measurement | How to measure |
|---|---|
| Biceps circumference | Around the widest part of the relaxed upper arm. |
| Chest/bust circumference | Around the torso at the fullest part of the chest, tape level. |
| Shoulder to bust | From the high point of the shoulder (next to the neck) to the bust point. |
| Back length | From the high shoulder point, down the back, to the waist. |
| Neck circumference | Around the base of the neck, where a shirt collar sits. |
| Shoulder width | From one shoulder point to the other, across the back. |
| Shoulder slope | Shoulder angle in degrees (usually between 10 and 15). |
| Waist to armpit | Vertically along the side, from the waist to the armpit. |
| Waist to hips | Along the side, from the waist to the hip line. |
| Hip circumference | Around the hips, at the level of the hip bones. |
| Waist circumference | Around your natural waist, the narrowest part of the torso. |
| Arm length | From the shoulder point to the wrist, arm slightly bent. |
| Wrist circumference | Around the wrist, over the bone. |
FAQ
Is the basic t-shirt pattern really free?
Yes. Every Kutopy pattern is free, with no sign-up and no watermarks. You can sew and sell what you make.
Which measurements do I need?
This pattern uses 13 body measurements. If you don't know them, pick a standard size or follow our measuring guide.
Does it include seam allowance?
Yes, it includes 1 cm (3/8") seam allowance (outer dashed line). You can remove it in the editor.
How do I print it at full scale?
In the editor pick your paper and tap "Download PDF". At home: numbered Letter or A4 pages you tape together. At a print shop or plotter: full size on one sheet, a 36" roll or large sheets. Always print at 100% and check the 10 × 5 cm test square.
