How to Sew 7 Types of Flounce Sleeves with Free Printable Pattern | beginner friendly

In this post, you will learn how to sew flounce sleeves in 7 stunning styles.

Flounce sleeves are one of the hottest trends in fashion right now. They add a touch of femininity and drama to any outfit, whether it’s a dress, a blouse, or a jacket. Flounce sleeves are also easy to sew, as they only require a circular piece of fabric and a simple patternmaking technique called slashing and spreading. In this post, I will show you how to sew flounce sleeves in 7 different styles, from subtle to dramatic, and how to pair them with different garments. Whether you are a beginner or an expert sewer, you will find this tutorial helpful and fun.

Let’s get started!

woman wearing clothes iwth flounce sleeves

What are Flounce Sleeves?

Flounce sleeves are sleeves that have a ruffled or flared edge that creates a lot of movement and volume. Flounce sleeves can be made in different shapes and sizes, depending on the style and effect you want to achieve. Flounce sleeves can be attached to the sleeve hem, the elbow, or the shoulder of the garment. Flounce sleeves can also be single or double, meaning that they can have one or two layers of fabric. Flounce sleeves are different from ruffle sleeves, which are gathered along the edge and have more fullness and frilliness.

flounce sleeves on mannequin

Types of Flounce Sleeves

In this post, I will show you how to sew 7 types of flounce sleeves:

High low circle sleeve: This sleeve has a flounce that is longer at the back than at the front, creating a high-low effect. It is a simple and elegant style that works well with any sleeve length.

Bell sleeve: This sleeve has a flounce that is wider at the bottom than at the top, creating a bell shape. It is a fun and flirty style that works well with long sleeves.

Semi circle sleeve: This sleeve has a flounce that is half a circle, creating a semi circle shape. It is a simple and chic style that works well with any sleeve length.

Gathered ruffle sleeve: This sleeve has a flounce that is gathered at the top, creating a ruffle effect. It is a cute and girly style that works well with short sleeves.

Circle ruffle sleeve: This sleeve has a flounce that is made of a full circle, creating a ruffle effect. It is a dramatic and eye-catching style that works well with long sleeves.

Double gathered ruffle sleeve: This sleeve has two flounces that are gathered at the top, creating a double ruffle effect. It is a playful and whimsical style that works well with short sleeves.

Double circle ruffle sleeve: This sleeve has two flounces that are made of full circles, creating a double ruffle effect. It is a bold and dramatic style that works well with long sleeves.

flounce sleeves on beige surface

What is Slash and Spread Method?

Slash and spread method is a patternmaking technique used to add more volume and shape to a garment. It involves cutting and spreading a pattern piece to create more space and fullness in the fabric. Slash and spread method can be used to create different types of flounce sleeves, such as the double circle sleeve and the high low sleeve. To use the slash and spread method, you will need to follow these steps:

  • Place the pattern piece on a large piece of paper and trace around it.
  • Draw a straight line from the center of the pattern piece to the edge, dividing the pattern piece into two equal halves.
  • Cut along the line, separating the pattern piece into two pieces.
  • Move the two pieces apart, creating a gap between them. The size of the gap will determine how much volume you want to add to the pattern piece. You can experiment with different sizes and see how they affect the shape of the pattern piece.
  • Tape the two pieces to the paper, keeping them aligned at the center and the edge.
  • Draw a smooth curve to connect the two pieces, creating a new edge for the pattern piece.
  • Cut out the new pattern piece along the new edge.

You have now used the slash and spread method to create a new pattern piece that has more volume and shape. You can use this pattern piece to cut out your fabric and sew your flounce sleeve.

printed pattern of flouce sleeve during making slash and spread method

How to Sew Flounce Sleeves:

High-Low Circle Sleeve

woman wearing dress with flounce sleeve

A high-low circle sleeve is a flounce sleeve that has a longer back than front, creating a high-low effect. This type of sleeve adds a dramatic and flowing look to garments, especially dresses and blouses. To make a high-low circle sleeve, you need to:

  • Measure the armhole where the sleeve will be attached and get the inner circumference.
  • Decide on the length of the sleeve for both the front and back parts. The back part should be longer than the front part, depending on how much difference you want.
  • Draft the pattern by drawing two concentric circles (or semi-circles for a half sleeve) on paper or fabric. The distance between the circles should be equal to the desired sleeve length. The inner circle should match the armhole measurement.
  • Cut the fabric according to the pattern, making sure that the inner circle matches the armhole measurement.
  • Attach the sleeve to the garment by aligning the inner circle of the sleeve with the armhole, right sides together, and sewing them in place.
pattern of flounce sleeve on table
cutted out fabric for flounce sleeve

Some of the garments that you can pair with a high-low circle sleeve are:

  • Dresses: A high-low circle sleeve can make a simple dress more interesting and elegant. You can choose a solid color or a floral print for a feminine look. You can also add a belt or a sash to accentuate your waist and balance the volume of the sleeve.
  • Jumpsuits: A high-low circle sleeve can also work well with a jumpsuit, especially if it has a fitted bodice and a wide leg. You can opt for a monochrome or a contrast color scheme for a chic look. You can also accessorize with a necklace or earrings to complete the outfit.
  • Blouses: A high-low circle sleeve can add some flair to a blouse, whether it’s a button-down or a wrap style. You can tuck it into a skirt or pants for a polished look, or leave it untucked for a casual look. You can also layer it with a cardigan or a jacket for a cozy look.
  • Tops: A high-low circle sleeve can also spice up a top, whether it’s a crop top or a tunic. You can wear it with jeans or leggings for a relaxed look, or with shorts or a mini skirt for a playful look. You can also mix and match with different patterns and textures for a fun look.

Bell Sleeve

woman wearing dress with flounce sleeve

A bell sleeve is a flounce sleeve that is fitted at the armhole and flares out towards the bottom, resembling the shape of a bell. This type of sleeve can be either long or short and typically ends anywhere from the elbow to the wrist. Bell sleeves add a touch of femininity and elegance to clothing and can vary in length, flare, and style. To make a bell sleeve, you need to:

  • Measure the armhole of your garment and get the inner circumference of the sleeve.
  • Draft the sleeve pattern by extending the lines from the elbow or upper arm outward to create the bell shape. The flare can start from the elbow or just below it, depending on the design you want.
  • Cut the fabric according to your pattern, making sure to include seam allowances.
  • Sew the sleeve together along the underarm seam, then attach it to the garment’s armhole, matching the notches and easing the sleeve cap to fit.
pattern of bell sleeve on table
bell sleeve on flat surface

Some of the garments that you can pair with a bell sleeve are:

  • Jackets and coats: A bell sleeve can make a jacket or a coat more stylish and cozy. You can choose a denim, leather, or wool material for a classic look. You can also go for a faux fur, velvet, or corduroy material for a trendy look. You can also play with different lengths and colors for a unique look.
  • Dresses: A bell sleeve can also make a dress more romantic and whimsical. You can choose a lace, chiffon, or silk material for a delicate look. You can also go for a cotton, linen, or knit material for a comfy look. You can also experiment with different necklines and hemlines for a flattering look.
  • Jumpsuits: A bell sleeve can also make a jumpsuit more fun and funky. You can choose a solid color or a geometric print for a modern look. You can also go for a floral, paisley, or animal print for a bohemian look. You can also adjust the fit and the length of the jumpsuit for a comfortable look.
  • Blouses: A bell sleeve can also make a blouse more feminine and charming. You can choose a plain or a striped fabric for a simple look. You can also go for a dotted, checked, or plaid fabric for a cute look. You can also add some details like ruffles, embroidery, or buttons for a lovely look.
  • Tops: A bell sleeve can also make a top more trendy and edgy. You can choose a solid color or a graphic print for a bold look. You can also go for a metallic, sequin, or glitter material for a glamorous look. You can also try different styles like off-the-shoulder, cold-shoulder, or one-shoulder for a sexy look.

Semi-Circle Sleeve

woman wearing dress with flounce sleeve

A semi-circle sleeve is a flounce sleeve that is shaped like a half-circle or semi-circle when laid flat. It adds a soft, flowing drape to the garment and can create a fluttery or flared effect at the hem of the sleeve. This style is often used for blouses, dresses, and tops to add a feminine touch and movement to the design. To make a semi-circle sleeve, you need to:

  • Measure the armhole of your garment and get the circumference for the inner curve of the sleeve.
  • Decide on the length of the sleeve from the shoulder to where you want the sleeve to end.
  • Draft the pattern by drawing a semi-circle on paper or fabric, with the inner curve matching the armhole measurement and the outer curve determining the sleeve length.
  • Cut the fabric according to the pattern, ensuring that the straight edge of the semi-circle will be the part attached to the garment.
  • Attach the sleeve to the garment by aligning the straight edge of the semi-circle with the armhole, right sides together, and sewing them in place.
pattern of flounce sleeve on table
pattern of flounce sleeve on table
flounce sleeve on bed

Some of the garments that you can pair with a semi-circle sleeve are:

  • Jackets and coats: A semi-circle sleeve can make a jacket or a coat more elegant and sophisticated. You can choose a tweed, houndstooth, or checkered material for a classic look. You can also go for a satin, brocade, or jacquard material for a luxurious look. You can also opt for a tailored or a wrap style for a flattering look.
  • Dresses: A semi-circle sleeve can also make a dress more graceful and refined. You can choose a solid color or a floral print for a pretty look. You can also go for a stripe, polka dot, or abstract print for a chic look. You can also select a fit and flare, a shift, or a wrap style for a versatile look.
  • Jumpsuits: A semi-circle sleeve can also make a jumpsuit more sleek and stylish. You can choose a black, navy, or burgundy color for a sophisticated look. You can also go for a white, beige, or pastel color for a fresh look. You can also choose a halter, a v-neck, or a square neckline for a modern look.
  • Blouses: A semi-circle sleeve can also make a blouse more classy and polished. You can choose a silk, chiffon, or crepe material for a smooth look. You can also go for a cotton, linen, or rayon material for a breezy look. You can also add some features like a collar, a bow, or a tie for a smart look.
  • Tops: A semi-circle sleeve can also make a top more fashionable and trendy. You can choose a bright or a neon color for a fun look. You can also go for a pastel or a neutral color for a soft look. You can also try different cuts like a crop, a peplum, or a asymmetrical for a cool look.

Gathered Ruffle Sleeve

woman wearing dress with flounce sleeve

A gathered ruffle sleeve is a flounce sleeve that has a gathered edge, creating a ruffled effect. This type of sleeve adds a feminine and decorative touch to garments, often seen in blouses, dresses, and children’s clothing. The ruffles can vary in size and fullness, and they are typically made from lightweight fabrics with good drape to enhance the ruffled appearance.

To make a gathered ruffle sleeve, you need to:

diagram of gathered ruffle sleeve pattern
  • Measure the circumference of the sleeve edge where you want to attach the ruffle. This will be the length of the inner edge of the ruffle.
  • Cut a strip of fabric for the ruffle. The length of the strip should be at least twice the length of the sleeve edge to allow for gathering. The width of the strip will depend on how wide you want the ruffle to be. A common width is 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm).
  • Hem the bottom edge of the fabric strip to prevent fraying. You can use a narrow hem, a rolled hem, or a serger to finish the edge.
  • Gather the top edge of the fabric strip by sewing a basting stitch and pulling the threads to create ruffles. You can use a long straight stitch, a zigzag stitch, or a gathering foot to make the gathering easier. You can also use a ruffler attachment, which is a special device that automatically gathers the fabric as you sew.
  • Attach the ruffle to the sleeve edge, right sides together, and sew in place. You can use a straight stitch, a zigzag stitch, or a serger to sew the seam. Make sure to distribute the ruffles evenly along the sleeve edge and match the notches and seams.
cutted out pattern for flounce sleeve
cutted out fabric for flounce sleeve
cutted out fabric for flounce sleeve

Some of the benefits of making a gathered ruffle sleeve are:

  • It is easy and quick to make, as it only requires a simple pattern and a basic sewing technique.
  • It is versatile and can be adapted to different sleeve lengths and widths, depending on your preference and design.
  • It is fun and playful, as it adds some texture and volume to your garment and creates a ruffled effect.

Some of the challenges of making a gathered ruffle sleeve are:

  • It can be tricky to gather the fabric evenly and to adjust the amount of fullness to fit the sleeve edge.
  • It can be bulky and heavy, especially if you use a thick or stiff fabric or a large ruffle.
  • It can be too frilly or girly, depending on your personal style and taste.

You can pair it with:

  • Dresses: A gathered ruffle sleeve can make a dress more cute and playful. You can choose a mini, midi, or maxi length for a different look. You can also go for a solid color or a floral print for a sweet look. You can also add some accessories like a hat, a scarf, or a belt for a complete look.
  • Jumpsuits: A gathered ruffle sleeve can also make a jumpsuit more lively and fun. You can choose a short, medium, or long length for a different look. You can also go for a solid color or a geometric print for a lively look. You can also add some jewelry like a necklace, a bracelet, or a ring for a sparkly look.
  • Blouses: A gathered ruffle sleeve can also make a blouse more adorable and charming. You can choose a button-down, a wrap, or a peplum style for a different look. You can also go for a plain or a striped fabric for a simple look. You can also add some details like a lace, a crochet, or a embroidery for a lovely look.
  • Tops: A gathered ruffle sleeve can also make a top more trendy and edgy. You can choose a solid color or a graphic print for a bold look. You can also go for a metallic, sequin, or glitter material for a glamorous look. You can also try different styles like off-the-shoulder, cold-shoulder, or one-shoulder for a sexy look.

Circle Ruffle Sleeve

woman wearing dress with flounce sleeve

A circle ruffle sleeve is a flounce sleeve that has a full circle or semi-circle ruffle attached to the sleeve edge, creating a flouncy and decorative element. It is similar to a circular skirt but designed for the sleeve. The ruffle adds volume and a playful touch to the garment, making it a popular choice for dresses, blouses, and children’s clothing.

To make a circle ruffle sleeve, you need to:

  • Measure the circumference of the sleeve edge where you want to attach the ruffle. This will be the length of the inner edge of the ruffle.
  • Calculate the radius of the inner circle of the ruffle by dividing the sleeve circumference by (6.28) (which is (2\pi), the circumference of a circle divided by its diameter).
  • Draft the pattern for the ruffle by drawing two concentric circles on paper or fabric. The distance between the inner and outer circles will be the width of your ruffle. The inner circle should match the sleeve circumference and the outer circle should determine the sleeve length.
  • Cut the fabric according to the pattern, making sure to include seam allowances. You can cut a full circle or a semi-circle, depending on the amount of flare you want. A full circle will create more flare and a semi-circle will create less flare.
  • Hem the outer edge of the ruffle, which will be the bottom of the sleeve. You can use a narrow hem, a rolled hem, or a serger to finish the edge.
  • Gather the inner edge of the ruffle slightly if needed to fit the sleeve edge. You can use a basting stitch and pull the threads to create small gathers. You can also use a gathering foot, a ruffler attachment, or an elastic thread to make the gathering easier.
  • Attach the ruffle to the sleeve edge, right sides together, and sew in place. You can use a straight stitch, a zigzag stitch, or a serger to sew the seam. Make sure to distribute the ruffle evenly along the sleeve edge and match the notches and seams.
cutted out pattern for flounce sleeve
pattern for flounce sleeve
cutted out fabric for flounce sleeve

Some of the benefits of making a circle ruffle sleeve are:

  • It is elegant and sophisticated, as it creates a smooth and flowing drape on the garment and a flouncy effect on the sleeve.
  • It is versatile and can be adapted to different sleeve lengths and widths, depending on your preference and design.
  • It is fun and playful, as it adds some movement and volume to your garment and creates a circular shape.

Some of the challenges of making a circle ruffle sleeve are:

  • It can be difficult to cut and hem the circle, especially if you use a slippery or stretchy fabric or a large circle.
  • It can be wasteful and expensive, as it requires a lot of fabric and creates a lot of scraps.
  • It can be too flouncy or flashy, depending on your personal style and taste.

 You can pair it with:

  • Jackets and coats: A circle ruffle sleeve can make a jacket or a coat more stylish and cozy. You can choose a denim, leather, or wool material for a classic look. You can also go for a faux fur, velvet, or corduroy material for a trendy look. You can also play with different lengths and colors for a unique look.
  • Dresses: A circle ruffle sleeve can also make a dress more romantic and whimsical. You can choose a lace, chiffon, or silk material for a delicate look. You can also go for a cotton, linen, or knit material for a comfy look. You can also experiment with different necklines and hemlines for a flattering look.
  • Jumpsuits: A circle ruffle sleeve can also make a jumpsuit more fun and funky. You can choose a solid color or a geometric print for a modern look. You can also go for a floral, paisley, or animal print for a bohemian look. You can also adjust the fit and the length of the jumpsuit for a comfortable look.
  • Blouses: A circle ruffle sleeve can also make a blouse more feminine and charming. You can choose a plain or a striped fabric for a simple look. You can also go for a dotted, checked, or plaid fabric for a cute look. You can also add some details like ruffles, embroidery, or buttons for a lovely look.
  • Tops: A circle ruffle sleeve can also make a top more trendy and edgy. You can choose a solid color or a graphic print for a bold look. You can also go for a metallic, sequin, or glitter material for a glamorous look. 

Double Gathered Ruffle Sleeve

woman wearing dress with flounce sleeve

A double gathered ruffle sleeve is a flounce sleeve that has two layers of ruffles, each gathered to create fullness and a decorative effect. This type of sleeve adds a romantic and dramatic touch to garments, often seen in blouses, dresses, and children’s clothing.

To make a double gathered ruffle sleeve, you need to:

  • Measure the circumference of the sleeve edge where you want to attach the ruffles. This will be the length of the inner edge of each ruffle.
  • Cut two strips of fabric for the ruffles. The length of each strip should be at least twice the length of the sleeve edge to allow for gathering. The width of each strip will depend on how wide you want the ruffles to be. A common width is 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) for each ruffle.
  • Hem the edges of the fabric strips to prevent fraying. You can use a narrow hem, a rolled hem, or a serger to finish the edges.
  • Gather the fabric strips by sewing a basting stitch along the top edge and pulling the threads to create ruffles. You can use a long straight stitch, a zigzag stitch, or a gathering foot to make the gathering easier. You can also use a ruffler attachment, which is a special device that automatically gathers the fabric as you sew.
  • Attach the first ruffle to the sleeve edge, right sides together, and sew in place. You can use a straight stitch, a zigzag stitch, or a serger to sew the seam. Make sure to distribute the ruffles evenly along the sleeve edge and match the notches and seams.
  • Attach the second ruffle below the first one, right sides together, and sew in place. You can use the same stitch and method as the first ruffle, or you can use a different stitch and method to create a contrast or a variation.
cutted out fabric for flounce sleeve
pattern and fabric for flounce sleeve
flounce sleeve during work

Some of the benefits of making a double gathered ruffle sleeve are:

  • It is beautiful and elegant, as it creates a layered and textured look on the garment and a ruffled effect on the sleeve.
  • It is versatile and can be adapted to different sleeve lengths and widths, depending on your preference and design.
  • It is fun and playful, as it adds some dimension and volume to your garment and creates a double ruffle.

Some of the challenges of making a double gathered ruffle sleeve are:

  • It can be tricky to gather and attach the ruffles evenly and to adjust the amount of fullness to fit the sleeve edge.
  • It can be bulky and heavy, especially if you use a thick or stiff fabric or a large ruffle.
  • It can be too frilly or girly, depending on your personal style and taste.
 You can pair it with:
  • Dresses: A double gathered ruffle sleeve can make a dress more cute and playful. You can choose a mini, midi, or maxi length for a different look. You can also go for a solid color or a floral print for a sweet look. You can also add some accessories like a hat, a scarf, or a belt for a complete look.
  • Jumpsuits: A double gathered ruffle sleeve can also make a jumpsuit more lively and fun. You can choose a short, medium, or long length for a different look. You can also go for a solid color or a geometric print for a lively look. You can also add some jewelry like a necklace, a bracelet, or a ring for a sparkly look.
  • Blouses: A double gathered ruffle sleeve can also make a blouse more adorable and charming. You can choose a button-down, a wrap, or a peplum style for a different look. You can also go for a plain or a striped fabric for a simple look. You can also add some details like a lace, a crochet, or a embroidery for a lovely look.
  • Tops: A double gathered ruffle sleeve can also make a top more trendy and edgy. You can choose a solid color or a graphic print for a bold look. You can also go for a metallic, sequin, or glitter material for a glamorous look. You can also try different styles like off-the-shoulder, cold-shoulder, or one-shoulder for a sexy look.

Double Circle Sleeve

A double circle sleeve is a flounce sleeve that has two layers of circular ruffles, creating a voluminous and dramatic effect. It is a variation of the circle sleeve but with an extra layer for added fullness and flair. This design is often used in garments that aim for a bold and fashionable statement, such as dresses, blouses, and tops.

woman wearing dress with flounce sleeve

To make a double circle sleeve, you need to:

  • Measure the circumference of the sleeve edge where you want to attach the ruffles. This will be the length of the inner edge of each ruffle.
  • Calculate the radius for each circle. For the inner ruffle, use the formula r1​=2πC​ where r1​ is the radius of the inner circle and C is the sleeve circumference. For the outer ruffle, decide how long you want the ruffle to be and add this measurement to the radius of the inner ruffle. The formula for the radius of the outer circle is r2​=r1​+L where r2​ is the radius of the outer circle and L is the length of the ruffle.
  • Draft the pattern for both ruffles by drawing two sets of concentric circles on paper or fabric. The distance between the inner and outer circles of each set will be the width of your ruffles. The inner circle of each set should match the sleeve circumference and the outer circle of each set should determine the sleeve length.
  • Cut the fabric for both ruffles, making sure to include seam allowances. You can cut a full circle or a semi-circle, depending on the amount of flare you want. A full circle will create more flare and a semi-circle will create less flare.
  • Hem the outer edges of both ruffles, which will be the bottom of the sleeves. You can use a narrow hem, a rolled hem, or a serger to finish the edges.
  • Gather the inner edges of both ruffles slightly if needed to fit the sleeve edge. You can use a basting stitch and pull the threads to create small gathers. You can also use a gathering foot, a ruffler attachment, or an elastic thread to make the gathering easier.
  • Attach the inner ruffle to the sleeve edge first, right sides together, and sew in place. You can use a straight stitch, a zigzag stitch, or a serger to sew the seam. Make sure to distribute the ruffle evenly along the sleeve edge and match the notches and seams.
  • Attach the outer ruffle below the inner ruffle on the sleeve edge, right sides together, and sew in place. You can use the same stitch and method as the first ruffle, or you can use a different stitch and method to create a contrast or a variation.
cutted out fabric for flounce sleeve
fabric and pattern for flounce sleeve

Some of the benefits of making a double circle sleeve are:

  • It is beautiful and elegant, as it creates a layered and textured look on the garment and a ruffled effect on the sleeve.
  • It is versatile and can be adapted to different sleeve lengths and widths, depending on your preference and design.
  • It is fun and playful, as it adds some dimension and volume to your garment and creates a double ruffle.

Some of the challenges of making a double circle sleeve are:

  • It can be difficult to cut and hem the circles, especially if you use a slippery or stretchy fabric or a large circle.
  • It can be wasteful and expensive, as it requires a lot of fabric and creates a lot of scraps.
  • It can be too flouncy or flashy, depending on your personal style and taste.

You can pair it with:

Jackets and coats: A double circle ruffle sleeve can make a jacket or a coat more stylish and cozy. You can choose a denim, leather, or wool material for a classic look. You can also go for a faux fur, velvet, or corduroy material for a trendy look. You can also play with different lengths and colors for a unique look.
Dresses: A double circle ruffle sleeve can also make a dress more romantic and whimsical. You can choose a lace, chiffon, or silk material for a delicate look. You can also go for a cotton, linen, or knit material for a comfy look. You can also experiment with different necklines and hemlines for a flattering look.
Jumpsuits: A double circle ruffle sleeve can also make a jumpsuit more fun and funky. You can choose a solid color or a geometric print for a modern look. You can also go for a floral, paisley, or animal print for a bohemian look. You can also adjust the fit and the length of the jumpsuit for a comfortable look.
Blouses: A double circle ruffle sleeve can also make a blouse more feminine and charming. You can choose a plain or a striped fabric for a simple look. You can also go for a dotted, checked, or plaid fabric for a cute look. You can also add some details like ruffles, embroidery, or buttons for a lovely look.
Tops: A double circle ruffle sleeve can also make a top more trendy and edgy. You can choose a solid color or a graphic print for a bold look. You can also go for a metallic, sequin, or glitter material for a glamorous look. You can also try different cuts like a crop, a peplum, or a asymmetrical for a cool look.

woman wearing dresses with flounce sleeve

Step by Step Video Tutorial

Watch my video tutorial on how to sew flounce sleeves in 7 styles. You will learn the step-by-step process with clear and detailed instructions. Click on the link below to access the video on my youtube channel.

[Watch the video here]

Free PDF Pattern for Basic Flounce Sleeve

To make this tutorial easier for you, I have also included a free PDF printable pattern for basic flounce sleeve. You can download it from the link below and print it out on A4 paper.

diagram of flounce sleeve

[Download the free PDF pattern here]

pattern and fabric for flounce sleeve

Check out as well:

How to print and assemble free PDF patterns

How to cut out sewing patterns with tips and tools

Recommended Fabrics for Flounce Sleeves

Flounce sleeves can be made with different types of fabrics, depending on the look and feel you want to achieve. Here are some of the recommended fabrics for flounce sleeves:

fabrics for sewing
  • Very light fabrics: These are silky, sheer, ultra-flowy and super lightweight fabrics that create a lot of movement and drape. They are perfect for flounce sleeves that have a lot of volume and shape, such as the double circle sleeve and the high low sleeve. Some examples of very light fabrics are chiffon, organza, silk, tencel, and polyester.
  • Lightweight fabrics: These are light and airy fabrics that have a soft and smooth texture. They are ideal for flounce sleeves that have a moderate amount of volume and shape, such as the circle sleeve and the semi-circle sleeve. Some examples of lightweight fabrics are linen, cotton, lace, voile, mesh, and habutai.
  • Medium-weight fabrics: These are fabrics that have a bit more body and structure, but still have some flexibility and stretch. They are suitable for flounce sleeves that have a minimal amount of volume and shape, such as the ruffle sleeve. Some examples of medium-weight fabrics are velvet, nylon, taffeta, oxford, and sateen.
two flounce sleeves on bed

How to Make Binding for Flounce Sleeves

Binding is a strip of fabric that is used to finish the edges of the flounce sleeves. Binding can add some contrast and interest to your flounce sleeves, as well as make them more durable and neat. To make binding for flounce sleeves, you will need the following materials and tools:

  • Fabric of your choice (see the recommended fabrics section above).
  • Matching thread.
  • Scissors.
  • Ruler.
  • Iron and ironing board.
  • Optional: Bias tape maker.

To make binding for flounce sleeves, you will need to follow these steps:

  • Cut a strip of fabric on the bias, meaning at a 45-degree angle to the selvage or the grainline of the fabric. The length and width of the strip will depend on the size and shape of the flounce. You can measure the edge of the flounce and add some seam allowance to get the length of the strip. The width of the strip will depend on how wide you want your binding to be. I recommend using a width of 4 cm (1.6 inches).
  • Fold the strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press.
  • Open the strip and fold one long edge towards the center crease, wrong sides together, and press.
  • Repeat for the other long edge, creating a double-folded binding.
  • Optional: If you have a bias tape maker, you can use it to make the binding faster and easier. A bias tape maker is a tool that helps you fold and press the fabric into a binding. You can insert the strip of fabric into the bias tape maker and pull it through, while ironing the folded edges as they come out. You can choose the size of the bias tape maker according to the width of your binding.
making binding for flounce sleeve with sewing machine

You have now made your own binding for flounce sleeves. You can use it to finish the edges of the flounce in the tutorial above.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial on how to sew flounce sleeves with free printable pattern. Flounce sleeves are a fun and easy way to add some flair and femininity to your garments. You can make them in different shapes and sizes, and use different types of fabrics to create different effects. You can also use binding to finish the edges of the flounce and add some contrast and interest to your flounce sleeves. You can use this tutorial to create flounce sleeves for any garment you want, such as dresses, jumpsuits, blouses, tops, jackets, and coats. You can also mix and match different types of flounce sleeves and create your own unique designs. The possibilities are endless!

woman wearing dress with flounce sleeve

If you liked this tutorial, please share it with your friends and leave a comment below. I would love to hear your feedback and see your creations. You can also subscribe to my blog and YouTube channel for more sewing tutorials and tips. Thank you for reading and happy sewing! 😊

In this post, you have just mastered the art of sewing flounce sleeves in 7 amazing styles.

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