Mastering Construction: Sleeves

Sara Alm

Class Preview

1:31

In-depth Instruction; over 109 mins
On-demand video access anytime
Bonus downloadable PDF resources
Access to class Q&A

Setting In Sleeves

20:04

Meet your instructor, pattern designer, author and teacher Sara Alm, and begin learning the fundamentals of constructing sleeves for any garment. Sara will help you understand ease and how the cut of your patterns affects fit. Then, she'll show you how to set in sleeves flat and in the round.

Plackets & Vents

22:42

Sara explains how to sew a standard placket that's perfect for a traditional cuffed sleeve, and she'll take you through an alternative for smaller, tighter cuffs: the bias-bound slit. Next, you'll learn how to add a vent to a jacket, even if it isn't lined.

Mastering Cuffs

22:38

It's time to sew cuffs. First, Sara shares her method to make constructing a standard cuff easier and more precise. Then, she'll show you how to create equally beautiful alternate finishes with a facing or a bias-bound edge.

Adding Structure & Stability

17:30

Learn how to add structure and stability to sleeves for a better fit and polished, professional look. You'll learn the right way to use shoulder pads, without looking like you're wearing a football uniform! Plus, Sara shows you how to stabilize underarms and add sleeve heads.

Finishes for Armhole Joins

14:31

How do you choose the right finish for your armhole joins? Sara explains why it all depends on the cap. She'll share her tips for perfect flat-fell seams and show you alternative options with standing-fell seams and bias binding.

Alternative Constructions

11:01

Now that you've learned how to create beautiful sleeves from cap to cuff, it's time to expand your horizons! Sara will show you how to sew a perfect two-piece sleeve and explain when you should use it. Plus, she'll show you her favorite finish for sleeveless garments.

6 Lessons

1 hrs 49 mins

Overview
Instructor
Bonus Materials
FAQs

Build your sewing skills as you learn how to sew a sleeve for any garment alongside Apparel Arts instructor Sara Alm. You’ll gain an understanding of ease, see how pattern shape affects fit and get tips for setting in sleeves flat or in the round. Then, you’ll discover how to customize the look of your sleeves with perfect vents and two types of plackets. Want to make precise cuffs easier than ever? Sara shows you how and even shares a few construction variations. Make sure your sleeves stay beautiful for years to come by adding stability and structure with shoulder pads and sleeve heads. Need an amazing finish for your armhole joins? Sara helps you sew the perfect attachment with flat-fell seams, standing-fell seams or bias binding. Round out your skills with techniques for sewing two-pieced sleeves like a pro and creating sophisticated finishes for sleeveless garments.

Sara Alm

Sara Alm started sewing dresses at age 6, and she's never looked back. After graduating from the Apparel Arts patternmaking program in 2005, Sara work has worked as a patternmaker, designer and sewing instructor at Apparel Arts. She also shares her passion for garment-making by teaching sewing and fashion to at-risk teenage girls. Sara recently launched a line of women's activewear and is the author of "Designing Clothes With the Flat Pattern Method" and co-author of "Famous Frocks."

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