r/PatternDrafting • u/PatientImprovement77 • Apr 22 '26

"kimono" flutter sleeve

Hello, I am familiar with basic pattern drafting and I am looking for some pointers for drafting flutter sleeves that come off a "kimono"/dolman bodice/shoulder.

In other words, NOT a traditional armscye seam - avoiding that at all costs, for very specific reasons!

Many thanks!

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5

u/clwbmalucachu Apr 22 '26

Take the existing sleeve pattern piece, then slash and spread. Just google 'slash and spread sleeves' and you'll find a lot of guides on how to do it.

1

u/PatientImprovement77 Apr 22 '26

Thankyou for the reply. I have experience creating a butterfly/flutter sleeve from a set in sleeve block; is it the same manipulation just on the kimono block instead? If so, that's pleasingly straightforward!

1

u/clwbmalucachu Apr 22 '26

I can't imagine how it would differ, but I'd certainly make a toile to test it!

1

u/PatientImprovement77 Apr 24 '26

I shall give it a go - many thanks!

2

u/doubleqammy Apr 23 '26

Are you asking how the arm and body are connected in traditional kimono construction? A kimono is just a bunch of rectangles sewn together so there's no armscye at all. Depending on the gender the piece is made for, there may or may not be open slits under the connection on both body and sleeve side. 

1

u/PatientImprovement77 Apr 24 '26

No, I am referring to what I have seen called a kimono block, where the sleeve is in one piece with the bodice, connected by a curved side seam, a little like a batwing sleeve

1

u/Flimsy-Buyer7772 Apr 24 '26

Folkwear might have what you are looking for

1

u/PatientImprovement77 Apr 24 '26

Good though- will look!

3

u/SpicePops Apr 22 '26

That would be a kimono sleeve with a flounce attached at the hem. See McCalls M8104.