Lesson content locked

If you're already a member, you'll need to log in.

In this lesson, I taught how to drape a unique sleeve design directly on the dress form using fabric manipulation techniques. I demonstrated creating interesting pleats and folds to turn a square piece of fabric into a stylish sleeve.

I showed how to take a square fabric, create pleats and folds, then drape it on the dress form to shape it into a sleeve design. I marked notches, transferred it to a pattern, and constructed the final draped sleeve.

Lesson Steps:

  • Cut a 17×17 inch square fabric and mark the bias lines
  • Make pleats/folds in the fabric as desired, one method is 1 inch pleats
  • Pin the pleated fabric to the dress form armhole, matching notches
  • Draw armhole seamlines from the pinned fabric onto pattern paper
  • Separate the drawn pattern pieces and true the sleeve cap curve
  • Add seam allowances and cut out the pattern pieces
  • Sew the sleeve pieces together, enclosing the pleated sections
  • Try on the draped sleeve and make any adjustments needed
  • Create a final pattern from the draped muslin for future use

Join our family!

More Than Just Courses, We're a Community of Dressmaking Enthusiasts

The 'Draping Society' Facebook Group is our community forum that's going to connect you with hundreds of other dressmakers just like you.