Summer Tank, and How to Add a Back Neck Opening to Tops

G'day!
So here is my most recent sewing success...

A super easy breezy summer tank!  Remember when I made this top out of a Onesie?:

I knew then that I would need to make jabillions more of them.  Pompoms are just so underutilized, right?!

This ridiculous (in a good way) fabric is Delphinium by Phillip Jacobs.  I've had it forever - I've been on this kick lately to start using these fabrics that I just want to save and stare at forever and ever.  It's hard!  But when the result is a cute little tank like this, it stings a little less.  ;)

I did make and use my own pattern for this tank.  I am/was willing to make it presentable and upload it, however, just a short while ago the super talented Kelli from True Bias introduced for download her Toddler Swing Tank pattern - which also happens to be in a size 2T - and is similar in style to my tank.  Her pattern is heaps more professional than I could hope for mine to be, so I'd recommend heading over there if you'd like to make a tank like this one!  Tell her Sarah sent'ya.  :)

Not so invisible stitching :P

Check out my label!  More on that later.

Emmy has a huge head.  Let's just get that right out into the open.  When I draft patterns for her, I am never 100% sure that the thing will fit over her head.  So I almost always make a back neck opening with a button and loop, to make SURE her big'ol noggin' will fit into these garments.  I made this tank the other night, so the lighting wasn't optimal for detail shots of how to do this.  So alternatively, you get this fantastically professional and eloquent sketchy tutorial on how to make a back neck slit/opening on a top that doesn't have a back center seam.
Enjoy!

Forgot to mention in Step 4. - Stitch down about 2½ inches.

On my tank I pinked the edges (Step 10), and I think it looks great!
You could also use this technique on existing tops with too-tight head holes (lolwut), and on bigger kids or grown up tops!  Just adjust the scrap piece, and how long the opening is, accordingly.
When you've finished these steps, just proceed as you would normally when finishing a neckline - with bias tape, or turning and stitching, etc.  Don't forget to insert a button loop in there, too.  Or you could sew on a hook and eye when all is said and done.  Up to you!

So there you have it!  If you have any questions, or just want to make fun of me, leave a comment below!
The weather has been cold and rainy up here in the Northeast, so when it gets nicer out I'll post some pics of Emmy in this tank on my Facebook page! 

Happiest of Fridays to you, my friends!

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