I really love making a sleeveless version of Darling Ranges! Both as a blouse or a dress, it creates a whole new look. I know sleeves aren’t a lot of work – but sometimes leaving them off just feels fast, you know? hehe.
We’ll use the provided bias strip pattern to create facings.
Ok, here’s how.
First things first, let’s make a small adjustment to the pattern pieces. To make sure it doesn’t expand past your shoulder, you should shorten the shoulder on both the front and the back patterns. How much you take it in is up to you. I took mine in by 1/2″.
Mark your point on the shoulder seam, and then use a french curve or another curved ruler to blend into the underarm.
Ok, so like I said, we’ll be using bias facing to finish the armholes. You can use store-bought bias tape, but I’ll show you how to use the provided bias strip pattern piece, just like with the neckline.
It’s the same process. Cut a few extra strips, place them together at a right angle, right sides together, and sew diagonally. Trim.
Fold your bias strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press. Fold one end in about 1/4″ and press.
Begin pinning the bias facing to the right side of the armhole, starting with the folded-in end, and matching up the raw edges. Pin all the way around.
When you get all of the ways around, overlap by atlas 1/2” and trim the excess.
Sew 1/4″ from the raw edge of the armhole. Trim and notch the seam allowance. I like to do this with pinking shears – trim and notch at the same time!
Fold the bias tape inwards towards the inside of the garment, so that you are encasing the raw edges. Press the seam, then pin and sew close to the edge.
Iron again (because we just LOVE ironing so gosh darned much) and you’re done!
LOOKING FOR MORE TUTORIALS?
Here’s the full list of Darling Ranges tutorials:
- Project preparation
- Pattern alterations: full bust adjustment
- Pattern alterations: small bust adjustment
- Pattern alterations: lengthen the bodice
- Pattern alterations: raise the neckline
- Pattern alterations: rounded neckline
- Pattern alterations: fishtail hem
- Pattern alterations: add darts to the back bodice pattern piece
- Sewing & construction: Bodice & darts
- Sewing & construction: Skirt & pockets
- Sewing & construction: Attaching the skirt & bodice
- Sewing & construction: Placket & Neckline
- Sewing & construction: Sleeveless version
- Sewing & construction: Attaching the sleeves
- Sewing & construction: Hemming
- Sewing & construction: Ties & belt loops
- Sewing & construction: Closures
- Sewing and Construction: Sleeveless variation
- Sewing and Construction: Dartless Versions (B & C)
We absolutely love seeing what you make, so don’t forget to tag your creations with #MNdarlingranges and @megannielsenpatterns if sharing on social media.
Don’t have the pattern yet?
