Sewing a baby shirt is very easy, even for beginners. You just need the right pattern, a tutorial, and you're ready to go. In this article, you will learn the best way to get started.
The most important things at a glance
- In this article, you will learn everything you need to know if you want to sew a baby shirt
- I will give you tips on the right fabrics and materials
- You will get advice on which baby shirt pattern is right for you
- You will learn about elastic seams
- In the sewing instructions, I will show you the necessary steps
- The sewing video will guide you through the entire sewing process, so don't worry!
- Sewing level: Beginner
- Sewing time: 30 - 60 min.
Can I sew a baby shirt as a beginner?
If you are a sewing beginner, it is no problem for you to sew a baby shirt or a simple baby sweater. A shirt for little ones makes a great gift. You can also sew a matching baby bib to go with it. Maybe you have already tried your hand at some self-sewn baby pants? Then you can whip up a matching shirt here. When everything fits together perfectly, the joy is even greater. Of course, you can also sew this shirt with a V-neck with little effort.
A shirt for babies is also a wonderful project for sewing beginners if you would like to venture into elastic fabrics. There is a helpful article on this topic on my site: sewing stretchy fabrics. If you don't own an overlock sewing machine and follow a few simple tips, you can also sew a cute, lovable shirt with your beloved household sewing machine.
It is important that you set the correct stitch settings on your sewing machine and use the correct sewing machine needle.
Reading tip: Sewing jersey with a sewing machine
What do I need to know before I start?
Once you have purchased the appropriate fabrics, it is important to wash them before cutting. Most fabrics shrink, some more, some less, when washed. This way, you prevent your shirt from becoming too small and the size you intended to sew from no longer being accurate. You can mostly wash suitable garment fabrics at 30 or 40 degrees in the washing machine.
To keep the cut edges from curling too much, you can serge them with an overlocker or a wide elastic stitch before washing. You can do this with almost all elastic fabrics, such as jersey or French Terry, because their edges like to curl up and distort. By serging, you stabilize the cut edges of these fabrics.
For transferring the pattern onto the fabric, I recommend tracing the pattern pieces with a marking pen. This is often much easier for beginners because you don't have to press down firmly like with conventional tailor's chalk. When marking with tailor's chalk, it can happen that the fabric layers shift.
One more note on fabric cutting: Advanced sewers also like to cut directly through double layers of fabric with a rotary cutter. Read my article about rotary cutters.
Another tip for the ribbing, which is used to bind the neckline, the hem, and the sleeves. Remember to wash the ribbing fabric but not to iron it afterward. It could otherwise become completely stretched out.
Please do not try to iron the curling edges of jersey. The edges will always curl back up. If you don't get along well with it (and that could be the case initially), I recommend starting with French Terry or a nice interlock jersey. In a fabric store, you have the opportunity to see and test the fabric directly. You will then see how strongly the fabric edges curl. For your first projects, buy a fabric that is well-suited for you as a beginner. Also read my article My jersey is rippling while sewing!
Reading tip: Sewing a child's shirt with raglan sleeves
Which sewing thread is suitable for a baby shirt?
You can easily sew the shirt with your usual all-purpose thread. These threads are the all-rounders among threads. They are perfectly suited for various fabrics and sewing projects. However, I recommend using only quality threads.
Although it is very tempting to buy those colorful boxes with all sorts of colors at a super cheap price on sale, it can really backfire. "Strange" things happen while sewing, and you have to figure out that it might be the thread.
So: If you are dealing with thread tangles, fraying sewing thread, or if your seams are ripping, you should consider how old your sewing thread is and what you paid for it.
That doesn't mean you can't get affordable threads with good quality, though. A tip from me: Hold your thread up to the light. If you see almost no fuzz, that's already a plus. This little trick shows you how tightly the thread is twisted. This not only makes it particularly durable – it also ensures that your sewing machine doesn't fill up with additional thread lint with every sewing project. Cool, right?
Another tip from me: Seraflex threads. With this thread, you can even create elastic straight stitches. It is inherently elastic. This means that you can also sew visible topstitches. But remember that the bobbin thread must also be wound with this thread. You don't want your sewing machine to give you trouble, right?
Try it out! You might be just as enthusiastic as I am. This thread is available in a large selection of colors. I found my threads at Stoffe-Hemmers*.
By the way, I personally recently discovered Madeira sewing threads*. They really glide through the fabric like warm butter. A bit of a strange comparison, sure. But you know what I mean. In the photo, you can already see how tightly twisted and shiny these threads are. Not to mention the dreamily beautiful colors...
Which, of course, all fit wonderfully with SewSimple and my favorite fabric colors. A dream. The highly recommended threads (which my sewing guru recommended to me 5 years ago) – why did it actually take me so long to realize that he was 100% right again? ;) – can be found in Simone's highly acclaimed Etsy shop*, which I have recommended to you multiple times here on the blog. Not least because Simone has a great feel for high-quality fabrics.
How do I choose a baby shirt pattern?
This is an important step that determines your success in sewing the shirt. You should keep these things in mind:
Sewing level
When making your selection, pay attention to ensure it is a pattern (paper pattern or eBook) for beginners. The description will indicate whether it is "Level 1" or "beginner" or "easy."
It will definitely help you make your decision if you look at the photos. On them, you can see beforehand how the seams run and what hurdles need to be overcome. There, you can see if there are pockets or if zippers need to be sewn in. In your selection, you can pay attention to whether the pattern does not have too many pattern pieces and is sewn with simple seams.
Sewing instructions
If you already have more sewing experience, concise and short instructions will suffice. Sometimes one glance is enough and you already know what it's about.
However, if you are just starting to sew children's clothing, here is an important tip: Choose patterns with step-by-step instructions and many pictures. For many SewSimple patterns, there are additional sewing videos with which your projects will surely succeed, because you can follow how it works using photos and videos.
Suitable fabrics
In the patterns and in the product description in the shop, or once again in the eBook's instructions, the suitable fabrics are listed. Maybe you have already been able to gain some experience with the right fabric. All the better!
But if that is not the case, a tip from me in advance: You can sew a muslin mockup from inexpensive material. Muslin mockups of a pattern were and are sewn from a fabric made of unbleached cotton (e.g., "Bomull" from IKEA). This way, you find out if the fit is correct and what adjustments still need to be made. Choose a fabric similar to the one you are planning for your project. Every fabric behaves differently, you should keep that in mind.
So you can also sew a test model from inexpensive jersey. This way, you find out how the fabric behaves and which stitches you work best with. And the effort is worth it: Afterward, you will not only hold a beautiful baby shirt in your hands but have also gained a new sewing experience that no one can take away from you.
If you want to read about which fabric is right for you, you can learn more in my article: Which fabric for what?
One small side tip: After cutting, quite a few fabric scraps accumulate. You shouldn't dispose of these right away. Grab these scraps for sewing tests. This way, you can calmly try out how the seam looks, for example, with a twin needle, which stitch length works well, or how wide the zig-zag stitch needs to be set. You can also see the thread color very well on the fabric.
You have never sewn with a twin needle before? Read my article: Decorative seam with the twin needle.
What does such a baby shirt pattern actually look like?
Such a simple baby shirt pattern usually consists only of front and back pieces, the sleeves, and a neckband. Pure magic that one can sew a sweet sweater for a cuddly baby from this, right?
The various lines show you where each size runs. The children's sizes are based on the child's body length. So if your baby is 50 cm tall, you should rather sew size 56, then it will definitely fit.
The special thing about our pattern: It is divided into several pattern nests. This way, you don't have so many size lines on your pattern. Especially for beginners, this is much easier. :)
Which fabrics are suitable?
Whether jersey, French Terry, or Nicki and also cotton fleece: almost all light and medium-weight fabrics are well-suited for baby shirts. Of course, it also depends on the pattern, but as mentioned, you can learn more in the pattern's instructions. That will help you with your selection.
A good selection for beginners? Cotton jersey, sweatshirt fabric, or French Terry. You can also use an interlock jersey. This does not curl at all, but is not as elastic. Furthermore, there are not as many collections of interlock jersey fabrics as you find with other fabrics.
I think the more natural and sustainable a fabric is, the better it is suited for self-sewn children's clothing. And because you only need mini quantities, you can treat yourself (and your baby) to a good, tested fabric, right?
Fabric recommendations for the baby shirt
Elastic fabrics are very well suited:
- Cotton jerseys*: suitable for every kind of comfortable shirt or sweater and for all our patterns
- Modal* and viscose jersey*: for fine, soft, and slightly thinner tops.
- Ponte jersey*: stable jersey fabric that is great for beginners to process
- Sweatshirt fabrics*: can also be processed wonderfully with just a sewing machine; for warming tops.
- French Terry*: a slightly thicker jersey that is wonderfully suited for year-round clothing
- Nicki fabrics*: classic for cuddly baby sweaters, but sewing with Nicki fabric can present a small challenge; you can find my best tricks and tips in my article Sewing Nicki fabric.
- Knit fabrics*: are very great to sew with the overlocker and perfect for beautiful, warm baby tops with a chic knit look
- Fleece or teddy fabrics are really nice and cuddly and warming. Here you should make sure that the fabric is elastic.
Of course, there are also baby shirt patterns that can be sewn from non-stretch woven fabric. You can browse through my pattern recommendations here. You can find those further down in this article.
Can you also sew a baby shirt entirely from ribbing fabric?
That works great, too. Ribbing fabric is nicely elastic and results in a somewhat firmer and thicker top, which keeps returning to its shape. In this version, you can also sew it with both the overlocker and the household sewing machine.
Important: So that the ribbing fabric keeps its shape and does not stretch out, you should not iron it, but only smooth it out.
Which sewing machine do I need?
A question you might be asking yourself: "Can I sew a baby shirt without an overlocker?" Of course! As long as you set your sewing machine to an elastic stitch (e.g., zigzag) and use a needle that is suitable for the fabric, it's no problem at all.
Zigzag stitches that are set to a narrow width are also known as elastic straight stitches. That's because they look exactly the same from the right side of the fabric. Many household sewing machines already come with an elastic straight stitch. It is really worth taking a look at your sewing machine's manual. You can often find descriptions that are very helpful.
The sewing machine needle is also very important: A jersey, stretch, or super-stretch needle is the right choice for your sewing project and, of course, for all stretchy fabrics. The tip of these needles is rounded. This prevents your fabric from being damaged while sewing.
A test stitch is also sensible here. You can then pull on the seam and decide whether you like the way it looks and whether the needle is suitable. If the jersey needle doesn't make a nice seam, I recommend using a stretch or super-stretch needle. You can learn more in my blog post Everything about sewing machine needles.
By the way: You can also sew the baby shirt entirely with the overlocker! You will finish faster because it sews, serges, and trims in one step. But it is not strictly necessary. You can also sew this enchanting baby shirt using your basic equipment.
Reading tip: Here you can discover my best tips and tricks for sewing with an overlocker.
You can find out more about finding the right sewing machine here: Buying a sewing machine (the best tips).
What other accessories do I need to sew a baby shirt?
You will need the same accessories that you use for most other sewing projects:
- Marking pen*
- Sewing thread*
- Tape measure*
- Rotary cutter & cutting mat* (read my review of cutting mats!)
- Fabric scissors*
- Iron* and ironing board (feel free to read more about practical ironing aids)
- Fabric clips*
Important: What you also need, of course, is a lovely baby shirt pattern plus fabric.
Can I sew a baby shirt without a pattern?
Yes, of course! Experienced sewing enthusiasts won't be stopped by a missing pattern. Basically, all items of clothing are made of geometric shapes. You can also use old and discarded clothing items as a template. To do this, you either take apart all the seams and use the pattern pieces as a pattern, or you transfer the cut onto pattern paper (of course, you can do both if you want to sew the DIY pattern more often). Disadvantage: You only have the pattern in one size.
Hot tip for transferring pattern pieces onto pattern paper:
- Spread a bath towel out on your table as a base
- First, place the pattern paper or old wallpaper, brown paper, etc. on top
- Now place your "old" garment that you want to copy onto this paper
- Now you need a tracing wheel. What is that? The tracing wheel is used for transferring a pattern onto pattern paper
- With a little pressure, trace the seams and outlines of your garment
- Because your paper is resting on a towel, you will perfectly perforate the pattern paper
- Now you can cut out your "new" pattern and sew it up
- Cool, right? ;)
Sew children's clothing with these instructions
Here you will find a selection of patterns that are quick to sew. The detailed instructions will guarantee you a great sewing experience and simply make you happy! :)
Sew a simple shirt for babies: Luv baby shirt pattern
- Sizes: 50 - 128
- Fabrics: Elastic fabrics, such as jersey, French terry
- Note: The shirt can either be sewn using only an overlocker, but also entirely with a normal household sewing machine
- Sewing level: Beginner
- Sewing time: approx. 1 hour
Sleeveless baby shirt pattern
- Sizes: 86 - 158
- Fabrics: Fine, elastic fabrics, such as jersey, viscose jersey, Romanit jersey
- Note: Luna Mini is a comfortably cut sleeveless top that can be worn for sports, for sleeping, as an undershirt, or as a sleeveless shirt.
- You can sew this pattern with an overlocker or an elastic stitch on your household sewing machine.
- Sewing level: Beginner
- Sewing time: approx. 30 minutes
Sew a shirt from non-stretch fabric: FAYE mini blouse
- Sizes: 86 - 152
- Fabrics: Non-stretch fabrics such as denim or cotton fabrics, or elastic fabrics like jersey or even panel fabrics for the yoke
- Note: A tunic for children made of non-stretch fabric or jersey that is sewn in no time. Chic jersey panel fabrics are also great for the blouse. This way, you have a matching fabric that accentuates the yoke.
Sew FAYE children's blouse now
BONUS: Sew baby/children's clothing with a free pattern
Is sewing children's clothing new to you and you don't want to buy a pattern? You can browse through a collection of free patterns for babies and children, and perhaps you'll find something you like. There you have a large selection of free patterns.
YouTube video: Sew a baby shirt
What can I combine the baby shirt with?
You can perfectly combine the baby shirt with these SewSimple patterns:
- Moe leggings
- Hilda mini panties
- Terra slip
- Luna top
- Pepita overalls
- Lexis pinafore dress
- Lee pants
- Frida mini skirt
- Scarf for children
- Beanie for children and babies
Also feel free to take a look at our Lemon children's shirt series. You can download the pattern as a slim, loose, or tunic version:
Conclusion
Sewing a simple baby top is a lovely project not just for beginners, but also for more advanced sewing enthusiasts. It is great fun to complete the wardrobe for your little darlings or to give as a gift!
Feel free to write in the comments which baby shirt you started with and which experiences you gained were important to you!
Happy simple sewing
your Sabine
Frequently Asked Questions
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