Tulle has been trending in a big way this summer, particularly when it comes to tops. We’re seeing adorably sheer tulle blouses with voluminous sleeves, hitting that transparent summer sleeve trend we’re currently loving. While we have quite a few patterns with large sleeves, such as the Ginger Dress and Davallia Bodysuit, you may still be wondering how you can alter a different pattern to incorporate this trend. Luckily, giving a sleeve more volume is super simple!
Purchase Materials Used Below:
All seam allowances are 1/2″ unless otherwise stated. See chart below for sizing specifications. Note, this specific pattern is available up to a size 30.
For this sleeve, we’ll be using a cut and spread technique. Since this sleeve will be gathered into elastic, we have a fair amount of free range for where cut our sleeve.
I chose to cut mine twice vertically and twice horizontally. Keep in mind that the vertical cuts (up and down) will alter how much fabric is being gathered around your arm, while the horizontal cuts (across) will lengthen your sleeve. Just be sure that your cuts are squared off, parallel or perpendicular to the grainline.
Next, decide how much you’d like to spread your pattern pieces. The farther apart you place them, the more dramatic your sleeves will be; and, of course, the more fabric you’ll need.
I separated each of my vertical columns by 2″ each. Since there’s two cuts and the sleeve is cut on the fold, this adds 8″ along the total width of my sleeve.
The horizontal rows were separated by 1.5″ and 2″, giving my sleeve an extra height of 3.5″.
Using a straight and curved ruler, true your new lines around the original pattern pieces. You now have a new sleeve pattern!
Your updated sleeve can be cut and attached to your Camellia Top following the original instructions.
4 comments
Me parecio muy interesante para dar olumenes a las mangas, tendencia en este momento. Gracias !!!
Gorgeous! I am making this within a few days in linen gauze 5.5 oz! I will make some modifications to the length but I love your pattern. Thank you for sharing!
Hi how are you? If we download the pattern from here would the sleeves be altered to the ones you made? Thanks Elizabeth Shoemaker
By the way I just finished you bellflower dress for thanksgiving, it was beautiful
Hi Elizabeth! No, the pattern itself never changes unfortunately – you’d need to follow the edits I made in the post, sorry! I’m so glad your Bellflower Dress turned out beautiful!!