In this lesson, I taught how to create a drop shoulder and off-shoulder sleeve designs. I demonstrated how to make a Bardot sleeve, which is a band around the shoulder, and explained the process of creating a dropped shoulder sleeve that attaches underneath the arm.
Lesson Steps:
- Mark the neckline and shoulder area on the pattern
- Measure and mark 2.5 inches down from the front notch
- Round out the armhole curve
- Draw the sleeve shape, either short (bicep length) or three-quarter length
- Make slight adjustments to the sleeve width for a better fit
- Consider lining the sleeve for a cleaner finish
- For a Bardot band, double the pattern piece and add seam allowance
- Cut the Bardot band on the bias for more stretch and comfort
- Attach the sleeve or band to the bodice
Remember, having a good sloper for your dress form and body size will give you more opportunities to be creative with sleeve patterns.