I’ve been dreaming up this series for a while now and finally got around to getting it going! Everyone is always looking for a great tee-shirt pattern – and, understandably, everyone has different “requirements” for that perfect tee shirt. You’re reading the first installment of my summer series – The Search for the Perfect T-Shirt. I thought it’d be fun to kick it off with a free pattern from Deer and Doe – The Plantain Tee.
In each post you’ll find all sorts of information about the pattern, the variations offered, the ease of construction, the fit and how it turned out! Here’s just a tasting of the patterns I plan on tackling this summer as part of the series:
- Lark Tee from Grainline Studios
- Union Street Tee from Hey June Handmade
- Agnes Top from Tilly and The Buttons
- Molly Top from Sew Over It
- Renfren Top from Sewaholic
- Briar Tee from Megan Neilson
- Hemlock Tee from Grainline Studios
Maybe if more tee shirt patterns are released this summer the list may grow – any patterns that I’m missing that you’re interested in me trying out?
Without further ado, here’s all about the Plantain Tee.
The Pattern – The Plantain Tee is a free pattern from Deer and Doe (woohoo!). It’s a t-shirt that’s fitted at the shoulders and flaring out at the hips. It has optional elbow patches and multiple options for sleeve lengths (short, 3/4 length and full length).
Size Chosen – I made up the size 40 which measures 36 1/4, 28 1/2, 38 1/2 and my measurements are: 36, 29, 39.
The Variations Offered – Unlike some of the other paid for patterns out there, the Plantain tee only has one neckline – a scoop neckline. It does offer different sleeve lengths and the optional elbow patch, but no other real variations.
Ease of Construction – Most tee shirts earn the easy construction status and this is no exception – this comes together really quickly. I used my serger for all steps except for sewing down the neckband seam allowance. One thing to note was that I did lengthen the neckband thinking I might need it to be able to attach the neckband easily – I did not need to do that. I ended up with some excess neckband in the back. I must learn to trust the pattern…
The Fit – I love this t-shirt! For me, this is a great tee shirt. I love a scoop or v-neck and a more fitted tee shirt. This fits all the categories. I do think that the scoop neck is a bit low, so in the future I might raise the neckline a bit.
Have you sewn up the Plantain Tee? What were your thoughts? What’s your favorite tee shirt pattern?
Looking forward to your adventure.
What kind of hand does the fabric you used have?
A suggestion for another FREE pattern (which I haven’t tried yet) http://peppermintmag.com/sewing-school/jersey-top/
It’s a really drapey knit fabric – I am not sure where I got it from. It’s really comfortable for a tee-shirt! Thanks for the suggestion for the free pattern! I’ll be sure to check it out.
The plantain is my current favorite t-shirt!
This is such an awesome idea, and I love your Plaintain! I think you’ve covered a lot of great t-shirt patterns. I have a lot of t-shirts to sew up before summer as well. Excited to see the rest on your list!
Thank you! I’m excited to sew them up – and see which ones you sew up as well!
I actually have 2 favourites that aren’t mentioned in your list! Probably because they are designed specifically for larger sizes (starting at a size 12) – the Cashmerette Concord and the Women’s T by J. Stern Designs. Love both these patterns and have made both up a number of times and always happy!
I always love the look of the Concord Tee – All of Jennie’s patterns are so cute!
I’ve been doing my own survey t-shirt patterns– also started with the Plaintain, and love it. I’m focusing on summer tees, so have also done the Ebony (I know, technically a tunic, but who doesn’t need another Ebony?). I just finished the Agnes, and then plan to try the Lark. So far, I have liked all– just different looks– so I’m not sure there is such a thing as “the” perfect tee for me! (I made a couple of Mollies in the winter, love them too!).
Meant to add– since you found the Plaintain a little low of a scoop for your taste, you will probably find you want to adjust the Agnes neckline, too.
Your version of the Plantain T-shirt looks great. The pink color suits you well. I didn’t make the Plantain yet (I know they have just released an updated version), bit I’ve made the Briar Tee from Megan Neilson. I’ve also made the Pauline top form Itch to Stitch, the Tee a free pattern from Sewingcake and the Belcarra from Sewaholic. Looking forward to your second make.