My New TNT T-Shirt Pattern: The Cashmerette Grafton Relaxed Tee

Every sewist has those patterns they reach for again and again. The ones that fit well, sew up quickly, and consistently earn a spot in regular wardrobe rotation. We call them TNT patterns—Tried and True—and I think I've found a new one.

My challenge was to create an entire mini capsule wardrobe using only three patterns. Click ➡️HERE to see the original post. The result was seven pieces that mix and match beautifully, including tops, bottoms, a layering piece, and a dress.

While the Grafton has already proven itself as the workhorse of this capsule, this relaxed-fit t-shirt version may be my favorite make yet.  Read on or watch here:

Why the Cashmerette Grafton* Is So Versatile

The Grafton is one of those patterns that can do almost everything.

According to Cashmerette, there are over 400 possible combinations thanks to:

• Fitted and relaxed bodice options
• Sleeved and sleeveless versions
• Multiple necklines
• Several skirt options
• Dress and top variations
• Additional mix-and-match options with select Cashmerette Club patterns

If you've been looking for a knit pattern that can cover a huge portion of your wardrobe, this one deserves a closer look.

This project features the Grafton pattern, a Cashmerette collection pattern. If you've been thinking about adding it to your pattern library, my code TOMKAT20 will save you 20% on eligible Cashmerette collection patterns*.

Inspired by Current Trends

When planning this capsule, I knew I wanted a silhouette that felt current but still worked with my proportions.

I've been seeing more relaxed, boxy t-shirts paired with longer shorts everywhere lately. My daughter was even planning to include a few boxy tees in her Disney World travel wardrobe, which got me thinking.

Could I create that same relaxed look for myself?

At 5'2" with a full bust, oversized styles can quickly become overwhelming if I'm not careful. I wanted the ease of a boxy tee without feeling like the shirt was wearing me.

The relaxed bodice in the Grafton seemed like the perfect place to experiment.

Fabric Choice

For this version, I used a cotton-spandex jersey from Style Maker Fabrics.

This fabric has become one of my favorite basics because:

• It comes in a wide range of colors.
• It has great recovery.
• It is lightweight and comfortable for summer.
• It coordinates beautifully with capsule wardrobe sewing.

I chose a soft salmon color that works well within my seasonal color palette and coordinates with the other pieces in this capsule.

Pattern Details and Modifications

I made:

• Size 10 GH Cup
• Relaxed bodice
• Scoop neckline
• Grown-on sleeves

One of my favorite features of the Grafton is how easy it is to swap design elements. The pattern includes transfer markings that allow you to mix necklines and bodices without altering your original pattern pieces.

I used the scoop neckline from one of the fitted bodices and applied it to the relaxed bodice.

The construction was incredibly simple:

• Serger construction
• Sleeves folded under and coverstitched
• Neckband topstitched with a coverstitch machine
• 1-inch hem at the bottom

If you don't own a coverstitch machine, a twin needle or zigzag stitch would work just fine.

My Length Adjustment

I cut the pattern exactly as drafted and waited until after construction to determine the final length.

After trying it on, I removed 3 inches from the hem.

That adjustment gave me the cropped-but-not-too-cropped look I was after while still leaving enough length for my preferred 1-inch hem.

The finished length hits exactly where I want it to pair with high-waisted bottoms.

Why This Tee Is Already a TNT

There are a lot of reasons this pattern has earned TNT status so quickly.

✨It Sews Up Fast

There are no darts, no complicated construction steps, and very little fitting required once you've established your size.

✨It Fits My Style

The relaxed silhouette feels modern without being oversized.

✨It Works With Multiple Wardrobes

This tee pairs beautifully with the pieces in my capsule wardrobe, but I can also see myself wearing it with athletic shorts and skirts during our upcoming Disney World trip.

✨It's Easy to Repeat

I already have enough leftover fabric to make another version, and I'm seriously considering sewing several more with different neckline options.

That's usually the biggest sign that a pattern is a keeper.

The Value of TNT Patterns

Finding TNT patterns isn't just about convenience.

When you know a pattern fits and suits your style, it becomes easier to:

• Fill gaps in your wardrobe
• Sew with confidence
• Use your fabric more intentionally
• Recover from sewing disappointments
• Get more value from your pattern purchases

Patterns aren't inexpensive, so I always encourage sewists to get as much mileage as possible from every pattern they buy.

Once you've done the fitting work, those TNT patterns become some of the most valuable tools in your sewing room.

Still Looking for Your TNT Patterns?

If you're struggling to identify which pattern companies are most likely to fit your body shape, check out my class on finding pattern companies for your shape.

The class walks through ways to identify pattern companies that align with your proportions, helping you spend less time making adjustments and more time sewing garments you'll actually want to wear.

Because once you find those TNT patterns, sewing gets a whole lot more fun.

Final Thoughts

This relaxed Grafton tee may be simple, but it's exactly the kind of garment I find myself reaching for again and again.

Comfortable, versatile, quick to sew, and easy to style—it checks all the boxes.

And something tells me this won't be the last Grafton you'll see around here.

*_{Affiliate links included—thank you for supporting my work! No extra cost to you, but I may earn a commission. Offers may change.}