Easy DIY double gauze peasant top tutorial

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Sew an adorable and comfy DIY peasant top for babies and girls of any age! You can easily create your own pattern using a simple formula. In this tutorial, I’ll show you exactly how I made these cute double gauze tops.

A DIY navy blue peasant top with gold flower patterns and ruffled neckline

The best part is, this method requires little to no math and no body measurements. All you need is a short sleeve t-shirt with a regular fit. You’ll be able to create different variations in terms of length, volume, or neckline.

With this skill, you can make DIY peasant tops in different sizes and styles for yourself or others. They are comfortable, pretty, and super quick to make.

Why double gauze is perfect for DIY peasant tops

These DIY double gauze blouses with short sleeves and a ruffled neckline are perfect for summer. My daughter adores wearing them. They pair beautifully with skirts, shorts, leggings, or jeans. They’re a fantastic choice for everyday wear and active kids.

Sewing supplies for a DIY girls’ peasant top

1 yard of fabric (double gauze, cotton, linen, or viscose)
1/4” elastic
Sewing machine and matching thread
universal needle
Fabric scissors and pins
safety pins

How to draft your own DIY peasant top pattern

To create these tops, I used the same pattern. As you can see in the picture below, there are only two pattern pieces: a sleeve piece and a bodice piece.

DIY peasant top pattern pieces for a bodice and sleeve laid out on the floor

To draft the pattern, I used a regular-fit short sleeve t-shirt from my 5-year-old daughter. I folded the t-shirt in half and took two simple measurements:

The bust measurement.
The opening of the sleeve at the hem.

A folded girl's short sleeve t-shirt used as a template for drafting a DIY peasant top pattern

Drafting the sleeve: I extended the t-shirt’s armhole curve by 1.5 inches. I also added 2 inches to the sleeve opening at the hem for a nice puffy look.

Drafting the bodice: I added 2 inches to the bust measurement for a comfortable, flowy fit.

Close-up of a DIY pattern showing a 1.5 inch extension of the armhole curve for a peasant top

Remember, you can adjust the ease and gathers based on your preference and fabric. When it comes to length, it’s better to make the pieces slightly longer. You can always shorten them later.

Measuring the bust of a t-shirt to calculate the width of a DIY bodice pattern piece

Sew your own DIY muslin peasant top

Now, cut out your DIY peasant top pattern pieces and use them to cut your fabric. You’ll need 2 identical fabric pieces on the fold for both the sleeve and bodice (4 pieces total).

I stitched the pieces together following the instructions provided in this peasant top tutorial.

Four pieces of double gauze fabric cut for a DIY peasant top, including two bodices and two sleeves

A quick tip on fabric: The mint green top has elasticated sleeves, while the navy blue one does not. I used a small scrap of fabric for the navy top and didn’t have enough to cut the sleeves on the fold, so I joined them in the middle instead.

Notes on pattern drafting

You might need to experiment a bit to get the exact look you want. While this takes a moment of trial and error, it’s a great way to boost your sewing skills and confidence.

For example, I realized later that extending the armhole curve by another 0.5 inches would have been even better. Even without that change, it’s still a very comfortable and loose top! I’m so proud of creating these from scratch.

Detailed view of the underarm area of a DIY peasant top showing the comfort and fit of the armhole

Tips for DIY sewing beginners

Choose the right fabric: Double gauze is beautiful but can be shifty. If this is your first DIY project, try a stable cotton poplin or light linen first.
Don’t skip the press: Iron your seams after every step. It makes a huge difference in how professional the final peasant top looks.
Test your elastic: Before sewing the casing shut, wrap the 1/4” elastic around your child’s arm or chest to ensure it’s snug but comfy.
Practice the curve: When drafting the armhole, use a French curve or even a large dinner plate to get a smooth, clean line.
Finish your seams: Since peasant tops get a lot of wear, use a zigzag stitch or a serger on the raw edges to prevent fraying in the wash.

I hope this tutorial inspires you to grab a favorite t-shirt and start drafting! There is something so rewarding about making a custom piece of clothing without the stress of complicated patterns.

Whether you choose a breezy double gauze or a colorful floral cotton, these tops are sure to become a staple in any summer wardrobe. I’m so happy with how these turned out, and I can’t wait to see the versions you create for your little ones. Happy sewing!