Pattern pieces explained

T-shirt pattern pieces explained

A generated T-shirt pattern is not one shape. It is a set of pieces that sew together: body, sleeve, neckline finish, grain direction, and allowances.

Body

Front piece

The front controls chest width, front neckline depth, hem width, and the front half of each armhole.

Body

Back piece

The back usually has a shallower neckline and must match the front at shoulder, side seam, and hem level.

Sleeve

Sleeve piece

The sleeve includes a cap curve that sews into the armhole and a lower edge that may be hemmed or finished with a cuff.

Neck

Neckband

The neckband is sewn around the neckline. For knit fabric it is usually slightly shorter than the neckline so it lies flat.

Guides

Grainline and stretch direction

The grainline helps place the piece on fabric. For knits, stretch direction must also be checked before cutting.

Allowances

Seam and hem allowance

Dashed cutting lines include allowance. Hems may need more depth than regular seams.

How to use these pieces

Before sewing, check that shoulder seams match, sleeve cap fits the armhole, the neckband suits the fabric stretch, and the hem and seam allowances match your construction method.