Kimono Sleeve
@sewsam7361
@Evelyn_Wood
@ThoughtfulCreativity
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This straightforward approach delivers a flattering, breezy kimono-style top with minimal pattern pieces and maximum style—perfect for beginners advancing to garment sewing or experienced makers seeking a quick wardrobe addition.
Materials Needed:
- Woven fabric with fluid drape (rayon, linen, lightweight cotton) — 1¾–2¼ yd / 1.6–2 m depending on size
- Matching all-purpose thread
- Sewing machine with universal needle size 70/10 or 80/12
- Tracing paper or pattern paper and ruler
- Fabric shears or rotary cutter and mat
- Tailor’s chalk or washable marker
- Pins or fabric clips
- Iron, ironing board, and pressing cloth
- Optional: ¼ in / 6 mm fusible stay-tape for shoulder stabilization
Tips Before You Begin:
- Pre-wash and press fabric to avoid shrinkage after sewing.
- Choose fabric with a soft hand; stiff fabrics may restrict the sleeve’s drape.
- Mark notch points for neckline and side vents clearly to align layers accurately.
- Stabilize the shoulder seam with fusible stay-tape if your fabric has stretch on the cross-grain.
- Press every seam as sewn, then again after turning, for crisp professional results.
1. Draft the Simple Kimono Pattern
- Draw a rectangle: width equals bust/hip measurement divided by 2 plus 2 in ease; length equals desired top length plus hem allowance.
- From the top left corner, measure down 8 in / 20 cm for sleeve depth; mark a horizontal line across.
- For neckline, mark 3 in / 7.5 cm across and 1 in / 2.5 cm down; curve to meet shoulder point.
- Shape side seam by tapering from bust to hip if desired.
- Cut a facing strip 1½ in / 4 cm wide to match front neckline if using a front slit opening.
2. Cut Fabric on Fold
- Fold fabric right sides together, aligning selvages; place pattern piece so center front/back is on the fold.
- Pin and cut main body piece; cut two mirror-image facing strips if using.
- Transfer notch markings for underarm point and hem vents.
3. Sew Shoulder and Top Sleeve Seams
- With right sides together, align shoulder edges; pin from neckline to outer sleeve edge.
- Stitch using ⅝ in / 1.5 cm seam allowance.
- Press seams open, applying fusible stay-tape on the seam allowances if needed to prevent stretching.
4. Form Side Seams and Underarm
- Fold garment right sides together along shoulder seam; match underarm notches and hem edges.
- Pin side seams, leaving a 6 in / 15 cm vent at lower hem if desired for ease.
- Stitch side seams with ⅝ in allowance, pivoting smoothly through the underarm curve.
- Finish seam allowances with zigzag or serger; press toward back.
5. Finish Neckline
- Join short ends of facing strips; press seam open to create a circular facing.
- Align facing to neckline right sides together; stitch around opening with ¼ in allowance.
- Clip curves, understitch facing to seam allowance, turn to inside, and press flat.
- Hand-tack facing at shoulder seams to keep in place.
6. Hem Sleeves and Bottom Edge
- Press sleeve edge up ¼ in, then another ½ in / 1.3 cm; edgestitch to secure.
- Repeat for bottom hem, pressing up ¼ in then 1 in / 2.5 cm; stitch, mitering vents if included.
- Give the entire top a final steam press to set seams and smooth fabric.
