bunnyb.gal
Practically Family
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Lady Day said:The main challenge Ive found with adapting sleeves to a new creation is the shoulder length of the garment v the sleeves. Look at your pattern picture and see where the shoulder rests on the model. Is it over the curve of the shoulder, right at its edge etc. Generally a lot of that is a 1/2" to 1" difference, and on my crazy body, that makes all the difference in how that sleeve is going to fit my overall torso.
The main spot for adjusting that area of the sleeve Iv found is about 4" down from the top of the sleeve. Too short and the back bodice can pull, too wide, and you can get drapes on the bust.
I have a pattern of sleeves that actually has a mock up shell for the bodice to address this exact issue. Its a great fitting tool.
Vintage patters exclusively sleeves are highly collectible and go for bank (and Ill fight ya for them ), so you might want to look at what you have in your current stash.
Good luck!
LD
Thank you Lady Day, GoddessMama and SugarKitten for helping me make my mind up about modifying that pattern. As a novice, erm, maybe I'll give that a miss for now! And I don't want to be battling with Lady Day, for sure I'd lose ! It's just me wanting to run before I can walk, and being completely frustrated with what I'm seeing (or not seeing) on the high street. One day I'll snag that perfect pattern in the right size...