Sewing sleeves can be a tricky part of garment construction, especially for beginners. There are various methods to attach sleeves, depending on factors such as the type of sleeve, fabric choices, and desired fit. In this article, we will explore three ways to sew sleeves: set-in sleeves, raglan sleeves, and dolman sleeves.

1. Set-in Sleeves:

Set-in sleeves are the most traditional and widely used method of attaching sleeves to a garment. They come in various shapes and sizes, such as cap sleeves, short sleeves, long sleeves, and puff sleeves. To sew a set-in sleeve:

a) After sewing the main body of the garment together (along the side seams), prepare your sleeve by folding it right sides together and sewing down the underarm seam.

b) Place the right sides of the sleeve and armhole together, matching up any notches or markings (such as center points). It’s important to align the underarm seam with the side seam of the garment.

c) Pin or baste the sleeve into place around the armhole; if necessary, gently ease any extra fullness in either at the shoulder cap.

d) Sew around the armhole using a standard stitch length. Trim excess seam allowance and finish edges accordingly.

2. Raglan Sleeves:

Raglan sleeves are characterized by their diagonal seams that extend from underarm to neckline (or collarbone). They are typically used for sportswear or casual garments. To sew a raglan sleeve:

a) Sew together both front and back pieces of your garment along their diagonal edges for each side, matching right sides together.

b) Attach each completed raglan sleeve piece onto respective sides of garment with right sides facing inwards; align main body’s neckline edge with shoulder point on raglan sleeve seam lines.

c) Pin or baste edges together around the armhole, making sure to match any notches or marks.

d) Sew along the seam line with the same stitch length as before, and finish edges by trimming excess seam allowance.

3. Dolman Sleeves:

Dolman sleeves are cut as part of the garment’s main body, often in a continuous piece that includes both front and back panels. It creates a looser fit and is found in casual wear or loungewear. To sew a dolman sleeve:

a) Cut front and back bodice pieces of your pattern to include the sleeves as part of the main body.

b) Sew together any required seams on your garment (such as center front or center back).

c) Fold your garment at the shoulder point with right sides together, aligning underarm and side seams.

d) Sew along underarm and side seam lines in a continuous stitch to create both underarm sleeve seam and side seam lines.

e) Finish edges by trimming excess seam allowance, then turn right side out.

There you have it – three popular ways to sew sleeves onto garments. By mastering these methods, you’ll be well-prepared for many sewing projects featuring various sleeve types. Happy sewing!