December 12, 2020

DIY Graphic Knit Top – Paradise Patterns Pua Tank

Styles InSeams - Paradise Patterns Pua Tank Top

I made this stunning tank for totally free! The Paradise Patterns Pua Tank is available for free when you sign up for Sanna’s email list. It’s an awesome high-collared tank for stretch knits and it takes less than 1 yard of fabric. And this fun black and white graphic knit that I used was totally free because I found it under a couch! What lucky finds, right?

The fabric was dusty and a bit downtrodden when I found it, but with a quick wash it was clear that it would be perfect for the #PuaTank and for my wardrobe. I tend to sweat so I love a drawer full of tanks that can be layered through the seasons. Even as a tall woman, I used to easily find tops like this in stores. But since I’ve stopped shopping for clothes nearly 2 years ago, my casual shirt stock has been running low. This racerback tank is comfortable and chic for going out or staying in when I when I’d like to look put together for Zoom.

I made the Pua tank once before with a super soft French terry fabric. This pattern has taught me several new skills of sewing with knits. I’ve learned it’s okay to use a straight stitch on knits in places that won’t require a lot of stretching. In sewing the neckband and arms, I learned how to quarter the round openings so the slightly smaller bands evenly stretch the fabric to sit tight against my body. And I learned how to use a stretch twin needle to finish off the bands with two attractive rows of stitches. Altogether, I feel far more confident to sew with knit fabric and make even more variations of this top.

Check out this great pattern by Sanna of Paradise Patterns. I love that she has included very clear instructions, packed with tips. Also, she has helpfully included finished garment measurements for the pattern widths and lengths to help you understand the negative ease for stretch and get the fit just right. Oh how I wish more pattern companies would do that!

I hope you like my graphic #PuaTank! I just love it.

Pattern

Paradise Patterns Pua Tank
- Get the pattern for free by signing up for Sanna’s email list
Sewing Difficulty – 1/5
Fit Difficulty – 2/5
- The pattern makes it very easy to find your fit, but you’ll want to nearly finish your top before before trying it on.

Fabric

Graphic black and white rayon and spandex jacquard knit

Fit & Modifications

I made my first versions of the top without adding any length since this pattern is drafted for someone 5’7″. When I sew this again, I may add 2″ of length at the hem so it hits at my full hip.
I used the D-cup variation with darts at the bust and it fits perfectly with no changes.
I cut a size 6 and graded up to size 8 on the front pattern for my hips.

Tips for Sewing the Pua Tank

When you start stitching on your regular sewing machine, start about 3/8″ from the edge to make sure the fabric is all the way under your presser foot. Otherwise, the fabric can get eaten up under the needle.
The instructions show the directions to show which helps the fabric not to shift as you’re sewing. You can baste on your machine before stitching the seam on a serger to ensure there is no shifting.
Avoid the urge to try on your top before you’ve stitched the neckband and sleeve bands. You don’t want to stretch out the shape of the curves.