In this post, we will be sewing the cap sleeves but the sewing instructions are the same if sewing the 3/4 sleeves. If sewing the tank view, you can find that post here.

TOP OR DRESS WITH SLEEVES | SEW THE SLEEVE UNDERSEAM

If sewing the top or dress with sleeves, with the right sides together, sew the sleeve underseam. Finish and press towards the back, the side with double notches.

TOP OR DRESS WITH SLEEVES | SEW THE SLEEVES TO THE BODICE

With the right sides together, sew the sleeve armhole to the front and back bodice.

Finish and press towards the sleeves.

TOP OR DRESS WITH SLEEVES | SEW THE  BIAS TO THE SLEEVE HEM

With the right sides together, sew the short ends of the bias at 3/8” (1 cm) and press the seam open.

 

 

Pin the bias to the sleeve hem, being careful not to stretch it. Sew at 3/8” (1 cm).

 

 

Trim the seam allowance to half to reduce bulk. Press the seam up towards the bias.

TOP OR DRESS WITH SLEEVES | UNDERSTITCH THE SLEEVE HEM BIAS

Understitch by stitching a line 1/16” (0.15 cm) away from the seam on the bias. Make sure to catch the seam allowance towards the bias when stitching. 

TOP OR DRESS WITH SLEEVES | EDGESTITCH THE SLEEVE HEM BIAS

Flip the bodice so it is wrong side up. Press the bias edge towards the center so the cut edge meets the stitch line. Fold one more time so the bias is lying on the inside of the bodice. Pin in place.

 

 

Edgestitch the hem and leave a 2” (5 cm) opening near the back to insert the elastic. 

TOP OR DRESS WITH SLEEVES | INSERT 1/4” (0.6 CM) ELASTIC

Use the cut chart on page 7 to cut your sleeve elastic lengths. Add safety pins to both ends. Thread the elastic through the casings, being careful not to twist it.

 

 

Overlap the edge by 3/8” (1 cm) and pin in place. Once the elastic length is confirmed, secure the elastic with a zig zag stitch.

 

 

Edgestitch the opening of the casing to enclose the elastic. 

 

 

Next, it’s time to finish the neckline in this post here.

 

Ivie Sew Along Posts | Getting Started | Prep Pattern, Sew Drawstrings & Bodice | Sew Tank Sleeve | Sew Cap or 3/4 Sleeves | Sew Neckline & Hem Top Bodice | Sew the Pockets & Skirt Tiers | Sew the Dress Waist Casing | Sew the Skirt Ties & Skirt Waistband