How to Make a Scrimmage Vest

Scrimmage vests are very easy to make--if you can wield a needle, thread, and scissors, you can make your own by hand without using a sewing pattern. These loose-fitting overshirts are usually in bright colors, making identification on the field instantaneous and easy. Visit your local fabric store and browse the selection of athletic mesh fabrics. Most stores offer a range of solid primary colors as well as interesting prints, such as camouflage, stripes, or Hawaiian-inspired floral prints.

Things You'll Need

  • Loose-fitting tank top or undershirt
  • Mesh sport fabric
  • Straight sewing pins
  • Scissors
  • Needle
  • Thread
  • Seam binding tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fold your fabric in half lengthwise. For kids and most adults, one yard of fabric is sufficient.

    • 2

      Find a clean, loose-fitting tank top or sleeveless undershirt to use as your pattern. Lay it out over your fabric.

    • 3

      Pin the tank top to the fabric using straight sewing pins.

    • 4

      Use additional straight pins to mark your fabric with an outline of the tank top that is at least three inches wider at the side seams. This measurement accounts for a 5/8-inch seam allowance, plus an extra inch of fabric on each side. If you want a looser scrimmage vest, add additional inches to your outline.

    • 5

      Cut out your scrimmage vest, following your pinned outline.

    • 6

      Unpin the tank top and set it aside.

    • 7

      Pin the shoulders and sides of your scrimmage vest together, overlapping seams by 5/8 inch.

    • 8

      Turn the vest inside out and sew the shoulders and sides together.

    • 9

      Turn the vest right side out.

    • 10

      Cover the neckline, arm holes and hem with seam binding tape. Place the fabric's raw edge in between the finished edges of the tape and sew it down. This will keep the edges from fraying in the wash.