Tie Top Made from a Fat Quarter
or an appropriate sized rectangle

Start with a fat quarter of fabric that you like (Or a rectangle large enough to form a slightly poofy top plus some extra for straps)



On the long side, measure in six inches



Fold over and iron flat






Cut along the line to form a 6 inch wide strip



Like this.



Fold larger piece of fabric in half and cut along the fold



You will end up with two rectangles, set aside for now



Fold the smaller strip of fabric in half lengthwise and iron flat



Cut into 2, three inch wide strips



Fold in 1/2 inch and press down



Fold over other side to meet and press down



Fold over one last time and press



Straight stitch through the center



Like this



Set aside



Using the larger pieces of fabric, place right sides together, straight stitch a 1/4 inch seam along either short side.




Finish with zigzags.



Finish the top and bottom edge as you see fit. I zigzagged the top edge



and satin stitched the bottom. Fold the top over about an inch (or the appropriate size for your elastic)



Fold into fourths and mark for strap placement (Sorry Bad picture)



Tuck strap under and pin in place



Repeat with second strap and straight stitch around base. Leave a space unstitched for elastic



Like this



Fold straps up towards the top and pin in place. Straight stitch around top.



Measure chest and add a wee bit of give and cut a piece of elastic to that measurement. Thread on to a safety pin and feed into open hole on shirt



Use the safety pin to work elastic through the casing, remembering to leave a tail hanging out.



Pull through on the other side



Sew elastic together to form continuous loop



Place finished top on adorable child, tie straps and voila! Easy summer shirt.