How To Make Tulip Sleeves // Pattern Drafting & Sewing Demo

I have had a few requests over the years for tulip sleeves! So here they are, and they are rather cute, though I prefer the longer version myself. Overlap them whichever way you want, add more layers for a truly flower petal look, line them or hem them, it's all up to you.
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Bianca Esposito
PO Box 632177
Highlands Ranch, CO 80163
Thank you for watching!

[@cypriennezed5640]

Resolved: I am now using tulip sleeves on my next project, these are so cute! Thank you for an easy-to-follow walkthrough

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Cyperienne!

[@ES-kg3qx]

"If things go wrong, I will learn even more" New Motto! Going on my wall!!!

[@tiamatmichellehart6821]

I agree; I think the longer sleeves look especially good, particularly with the poof! Also, I hope you had help pinning yourself into those mock-ups! ;)

[@theycallmehotrod1940]

Oh man, the times I have accidentally made myself into a pin cushion while trying things on is just sad at this point. Anyone else have dreams (or nightmares) of being poked with pins?

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I had my mom assist in pinning these yes!

[@ah5721]

@@theycallmehotrod1940 I've done it 😬 luckily no nightmares . now I've a handy husband to help

[@tambriggs]

Hi Bianca, awesome as ever! Since you ask, ALL the sleeves, please :)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! Okay can do!

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

Seconded!

[@ayshahudeib9418]

this was so cool to see! i'd love a pattern making walk through of puff sleeves/gathered sleeves. I'm like Anne of Green Gables, addicted to the puff sleeves 😂

[@bloodymary77]

Thank you! And yes to a whole video dedicated to the poof sleeves!

[@rachellynncreates2703]

Yay! I’ve wondered about this. Also, your hair is perfection.

[@ReisigSeeds]

Let’s be honest. She’s *always* perfection.

[@rachellynncreates2703]

@@ReisigSeeds true. True.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! It was not holding curl well this day, so I just victory-rolled the front out of the way 😂

[@andreaparks5348]

i love this! could you do more of these sleeve tutorials? i wanna know about ALLLL the variations lol.

[@valzahnzahn]

Your blonde streak is looking perfect. Love how it swirls with the dark in that one curl❤️

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Valerie!

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

"I used to make a lot of mistakes. If that's still you, don't feel bad!" I do a lot of crafts. A LOT. And making mistakes teaches you more than getting it right the first time, whether it's "ok, NOW how do I fix this?" or some happy accident that gives you ideas for future projects. mistakes are part of the process. I just try to make most of them on my mockups!!

[@ryanazayku]

Love the hair and the purple shadow

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Ryan!

[@shirleypulawski8221]

Thank you so much for this tutorial. I'm a fairly experienced sewist, bit I struggle with sleeves as I have big arms so I always have to make modifications. You've demystified the tulip and answered a lot of my questions about them. Thanks tons!

[@loretta_3843]

They look lovely! For someone with my sewing skills (skills! Ha😄), it's always like watching a magician seeing you turn scraps of paper into something lovely.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Loretta!

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

How simple, but beyond what I woulda simply figured for myself.

[@joannaerhardt7294]

This was so helpful, thank you! Also, hair, makeup, outfit.. perfection!💖

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Joanna!

[@chermarano]

Your hair rocks. Thanks for this video. It's very helpful.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@kaycee5448]

That's it .... all my shirts are getting tulip sleeves from now on. So much easier to do, and great looking. Thank you.

[@johnpluta1768]

A classic style, timeless and elegant.

[@ericatomas8481]

This was so perfectly timed, as I'm about to start a project with tulip sleeves! As always, thank you for doing such a thorough walk through.

[@x1435]

So cute! I love the longer version with the puff. Thank you for the tutorial :D

[@nanettebromley8843]

Great tutorial. Thank you. Definitely love the look of the tulip. Especially the longer poofed version. Very Interested in an altering the sleeve head tutorial or 2. Its something that I struggle with.

[@KathBorup]

Hell yeah! Thank you for this! Best source on KZbin for pattern making! Interesting how these came back in the 70s too! Its time 22!

[@mewennm4387]

Thank you so much for this, it was so useful. The book I use is clearly meant for people with a lot more experience than I have and I always end up with more questions after I read it. Your videos really make it seem a lot less like a mistake will be the end of my project. I really like your videos for that.

[@rhondarsf]

Yes please make a video on adding puff to sleeves!!!! I love your videos!!!!

[@jenniferlindsay7053]

Oh, I just did this on a muslin for the tie top on a 40s play suit! Basically fumbled through and came up with the same, except I didn’t think to connect them instead of an underarm seam. My biceps are big from lifting my beefy cat, so I appreciate the split in the sleeve.

[@Goforfink]

I didn't realise these were so easy to make from a sleeve block! Thanks

[@elizabethmarie7828]

I really, really enjoyed that. Thanks for actually trying out the longer sleeve option, I appreciate the extra effort 😊

[@TeresaBearCFP]

I watched this video when it first came out and didn’t think about making tulip 🌷 sleeves on my own project. This weekend I watched it again and had an eureka moment! These sleeves - particularly with the puff added - are a perfect slimming effect sleeve! The way your eye is tricked to focus on a V that goes to the waist is perfect. I just made the tulip sleeve pattern and assembled the sleeve for my next dress. I also bought a used edition of Pattern Making For Fashion Design off of EBay. Thanks for all you do!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Yep! I had the same realization!

[@apollonianeumer3094]

Love these little demonstrations from you! I tend to reference them a lot while sewing!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@jnetbeams]

Purple lights! Looks good in the background.

[@thevintagemexican]

Tulip sleeves were so scary,, now thanks to you am pretty sure I can attempt to make them!! 😜

[@caoimhenimhuireadhaigh1303]

These would make such a pretty addition to a house dress, they give you plenty range of movement, and they would add such a darling detail to a more utilitarian garment

[@coalsparks]

Yeah, definitely the longer version. I’d love to see more about puffy sleeves. Especially how to kind of guesstimate how much puff to add. Like, does 3 inches added to the shoulder seam equal an extra half inch of height? Or is that some arcane calculus involving pi and (probably) square roots and we are better off with “just try and see”?

[@kfries1282]

I haven't made tulip sleeves for myself before, and I never thought about how the underarm seams could be combined at the pattern stage. I see many tulip sleeves in my future

[@samh.3421]

Wonderful video, greatly appreciated. Laughed very hard at the quip about making mistakes after 15 years.

[@Luna-mi1dd]

Ms. Bianca you asked for ideas for future video tutorials. I would love to see how to make double layered collars - round and pointed of the 1930 and 1940 styling. Also how to make interesting patch pockets with double flaps, lace, button cover, embroidered, pleated and cording that matches with the garment. Thank you for asking and your entertaining clear instructions that I will certainly use in the future.

[@ailsadixon408]

Hooray!! Thank you for this. Also YOUR HAIR!?! Is superb 🤍🖤🤍

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Ailsa!

[@jirup]

Thanks for this, Bianca, I love the longer tulip sleeves. Another sleeve I would like to see drafted is a flutter sleeve in a knit fabric. I know the basics, but always end up with way too much fabric under the arm. I like a flutter sleeve on a summer tee for the extra ventilation.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Alas I know so little about knits that I'm not sure how one drafts sleeves differently for them specifically I'm afraid!

[@solayange]

This is the best timed video ever im starting a bridgerton inspired dress and these sleeves are EVERYWHERE in that show

[@hogsbackacre5959]

Love it! This is one of my favorite sleeve style.

[@MalteseKat]

Thank you so much. I just got started sewing again after yearsssss. I'm rusty and I always was very 'unorthodox' in my sewing. On top of that I was taught by my folks whose technique was from the 1940's . So I have had several episodes of synaptic misfiring . This ADHD kid is going to pay close attention to my favorite teacher. Being ADHD often I find certain voices and poor diction diverts my attention. Thanks for your devotion and talent you share. And you are so beautiful too.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Carmen!

[@romonaelrod7870]

I appreciate your showing how to do the tulip sleeves. They are really cute. I had a dress with the longer version of the sleeves back in the 1980's when i was in my 20's. It was red silk and it was double breasted with gold buttons in a bright red fabric and had the puffed tulip sleeves. I loved that dress.

[@doloresgreen1563]

How Adorable !!! I love Tulip Sleeves !!! Yes, the longer version is cuter. Your hairstyle is impeccable. Victory Rolls, indeed. :)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Dolores!

[@GiannaFiore]

I like the longer sleeve. Thank you for making this video👍😺

[@Chibi-kittenplays]

yes! puff sleeve video!

[@MeadowoodRanch]

Great demo!

[@jlgreer01]

Love this sleeve… will try it soon!

[@ah5721]

I love these sleeves but they are daunting. Thank you for this

[@mariegarside8830]

I'm so excited because I have a piece of fabric screamng for that sleeve. More sleeve variety videos.

[@sandiemable]

This is a very flattering sleeve. I would wear the longer one; very nice. xoxo's Sandie

[@lfitz3545]

B. Oh good God! Your ability to free style marking drives me nuts. Tulip sleeves? Short, good. Longer, prefer. Not been looking at your uploads for a while, but you is looking well cool👌 Lois Fitz.

[@GrooveyBobby]

Just what I needed to get my mojo back for finishing a new blouse, 🌷 sleeves would be perfect, thank you so much for the inspiration 💜

[@TheMMFamily9]

this is a cute sleeve , i love it in vintage

[@MichelleSMV]

I love love love your hair! Tulip sleeves are so adorable, I'm going have to try making them next time especially the puff ones. The tutorial is also really easy to understand. Thank you!

[@coreygilles847]

Such a cute sleeve. I will have to try the longer one with the puff

[@bluestar.8938]

Thank you Bee : ) Oh, yes please to the puffy sleeves. Thank you : )

[@fraeuleinpusteplume2730]

Thank you. That was really helpful 🌻

[@andreabendrups4768]

Another fabulous video. Thank you. You are a superb teacher.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Andrea!

[@TheMagnoliaWitch]

This is perfectly timed, as my eldest imp requested tulip sleeves for the wild mushroom themed Renaissance Faire costume I was asked to make, and this has given me Ideas. 👏👏👏🙏

[@reneebontjes238]

Great tutorial. I have always loved tulip sleeves on dresses. I'm currently visiting Colorado. Waving 👋 It's been as cool and wet as it was when I left Minnesota.

[@karenbensdon4643]

That is beautiful.

[@hailtothefire_]

I learn so much from you. Thank you for making these tutorials!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Amber!

[@MysteryMommy1]

Loving your hair!

[@nerdaccount]

Your videos are always so informative and wonderful to watch.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@autumn7143]

Thanks for this. I like these sleeves, but my favorites are flutter sleeves.

[@livinginthenow]

I have THICC upper arms. This is my favorite type of sleeve because it gives me freedom of movement and is more flattering on me, imo. Thanks for this instruction/demo video. Reading about how to do this is nice, but seeing it done is really helpful for me.

[@AndreaIris86]

Oh Bianca, it's not fair, every time I see you do something new, I want to try it too...! (also, your hairstyle and colour in the intro... chef's kiss!)

[@trudicole3520]

It's a lot simpler than I thought so I might give it a try they do look very cute

[@carolbarbee5653]

Great thing to know how to make😍

[@mce1939]

Really good tutorial. I like the tulip sleeve longer as well. It's very flattering and fun.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@sewitseams7832]

The Blue Patterning Table of Doom strikes again! Another great drafting video, thank you 😊 And yes please to the puffed sleeve tutorial

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@lindagoesel3815]

Loved this, thank you. Great hair!!!!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Linda!

[@dixiehansen8226]

Yes, please video about adding puffed sleeves.

[@pickledequity]

Please, pretty please make a video on puffing stuff. I would greatly appreciate it, also I'm sure many others would love it as well.

[@Mommamacnz]

Thank you for this tutorial. It's such a lovely sleeve shape and you've made it so easy to follow how to do it. I liked the longer sleeve on you and if I make them I will also be doing longer versions. Or maybe multiple layers.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Annette!

[@Luckyladyll]

I love the second version. I wanted tulip sleeves on a kimono; now I don't have to buy the pattern for them. Thank you.

[@lauramccary6530]

Yes, please make a video about adding puff to sleeves. I need that yestereday.

[@samandspot]

Yes, please a video on how to puff basic sleeves

[@therewillbecatswithgwenhwyfar]

I needed this! And Holly crap, your hair today!

[@therewillbecatswithgwenhwyfar]

And Yes! I’d LOVE a video just on puff sleeves!

[@annastebelskyj580]

That was very straightforward! Thank you for once again providing such a wonderfully concise methodology! I was surprised by how much I liked the look of the short smooth-capped sleeve, but like you, I prefer a longer sleeve due to my proportions. Makes me wonder about doing a micro tulip sleeve that's more like a 40's sleeve extension, which could be really cute. I happen to have a wonderful DuBarry pattern with longer puffed tulip sleeves. It has both the front and back gathered and it does in fact result in a very puffy puff. I've made two so far, one with the wrap back-over-front as indicated in the pattern instructions, and the other front-over-back, just to see how that goes. I've found that back-over-front just fits better and gives better freedom of movement. The instructions also say to baste the two halves together before setting, presumably to control all the gathers.

[@suneelthapa25]

Thank you

[@asilverfoxintasmania9940]

Thank you for this video! I'm with you on the cap sleeve! They somehow manage to make my arms look chubby when they aren't so I go for the longer length! Also loving the hair and eye make up for this video! Super cute!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@pavligesch]

hair and make up 10/10 ! so pretty :)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@IvyRosethebus]

Cute. Thanks

[@mariaantonietaazeredo8630]

I love your videos. They are very inspiring. As for ideas I would like to see different sleeves and collars. If possible something about doing matching fabric belts. Maybe some project using leftover fabrics such as a beautiful dress with a panneled skirt

[@SauronsAccntnt]

I like the long sleeve on you but I have these freakishly long arms that, inexplicably, look better in cap sleeves. I'm excited to add this video to my menagerie of sewing tutorial videos so I can have this adorable copy/paste sleeve option on future dress patterns! Thank you! P.S. I love the purpley lavender under-eye. Gorgeous :)

[@MyLittleGeekery]

Not bothering to get a ruler even though you can literally just reach for it, because why, is a feeling I understand and appreciate.

[@TheBmweed]

As someone who HATES easing in sleeves, I think I've found my new favorite... :)

[@staciesawyer8017]

I love your hair style. So cool

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Stacie!

[@gowriwarrier2370]

I can imagine those longer puffy ones with multiple layers making a gorgeous sheer summer dress! Thank you for another helpful demonstration, and yes, I would love to see more puffy sleeves! Or maybe even a video about interesting types of cuffs?

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@makewearmend]

What a gorgeous idea! The shorter sleeve layered over the longer, in different coloured chiffons 😍 It'd be magical. Potentially bulky at the sleeve cap, but worth it.

[@MalteseKat]

I agree the puffy sleeve suits you ☺️

[@laurierogers8538]

Love your hair!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Laurie!

[@lindak8664]

That longer one was so nice! The short one was a bit too short for the tulip effect to show to its best advantage. You know what, i think tulips would be wonderful to disguise my giant bat-wings. I’m going to give those a go 😄

[@ah5721]

Tricep kick backs with weights are effective ways to build muscle under the arms when skin sags.

[@michellecornum5856]

I love these little tulip sleeves. I can see how you'd get really confused at some point. Can you do the mutton sleeve that is fitted from the elbow to the wrist and a poof from the elbow to the shoulder, please?

[@nardagates6143]

Am I bold enough to try this? 🤷🏽‍♀️ will I watch and save for later? Hell yeah! These are so flippin’ cute!!!! Yes!!! Give me all the puffy sleeves!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@WardGalina]

Now my brain is trying to picture a 2-tone bodice with a back over front tulip sleeve in 2 colors and the bodice with a yoke and back that matches the sleeve back and the front matching the sleeve front, could be a fun color blocking experiment It would almost make like a faux cape 🤔

[@baharpiena9246]

The brownish lipsstick color looks good on you. This is the first time I see you wearing it. Usely you wear darker colors.😊

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@WindspielArt]

Thanks for that tutorial! Love that style of sleeve and will definitely try that! PS.: I looooove your hairstyle/color

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@Puppy52]

Yey! Thank you!!!

[@croitoriafaraformule]

Going to try them :-)