I look to online boutiques and Pinterest for sewing inspirations all the time. By adding small details to an existing pattern, P4P of course ;), you can transform your favorite finds into your very own me-made version. During the entire month of January we are running a #PINspiredPIRATES contest. I took on the challenge and added a super cute button cuff to the Slim Fit Raglan. You can use any of the knit shirt patterns as a base, but chose the Slim Fit Raglan since it was the best to recreate the overall look. (original inspiration pic credit: Three Birds Nest.)
Supplies: 4-6 buttons; knit scraps, small hair ties, fold over elastic, ribbon (whatever you’d like to use for the loops)
Most of the cuffs included in the patterns are a little shorter than I wanted, so I added 1″ to the length. Since both ends of the button cuff are finished, I added to the width to account for the seam allowance. Refer to your cut chart in the pattern for measurements, then add 1″ to each. Cut 2.
Cut 6 button loops. You can choose what you would like to use for your loops. I went the easy route and cut 1/2″ strips of knit that was the same fabric as my cuffs. Since knit does not unravel, you can leave the edges raw. I pulled them taught so that it would roll in on itself. I cut them 2.5″ long but after completion they ended up a little too long for the smaller size button I used. I wrapped them twice around to keep the cuff closed. I would use 1.75″-2″ depending on your button size.
Fold cuffs right sides together.
Fold loops in half lengthwise and place them equal distance apart between your cuff layers. Be sure to leave at least 1/2″ from raw edge for your seam allowance when attaching your cuff. I just kind of eyeballed their placement to be sure they were even.
Stitch Short ends. Be sure to catch the raw edges of your loops.
Turn Right side out.
Add buttons. Be sure to attach buttons at opposite ends to create mirror images, otherwise, you will end up with 2 cuffs with tabs in the same direction.
Button the cuffs. Again, be sure to button them so you have mirror images.
Baste open edges together. I used a zigzag stitch to tack them together. Do not stitch through all layers or you will sew your cuff shut. You are only stitching through 2 layers of fabric.
Insert cuff inside sleeve with right sides together. Buttons should be lined up to the folded side of sleeve with button loops pointing to the back.
Stitch with 1/2″ seam allowance.
VOILA!
Followed this hack? Or came up with something of your own? We would love to see it! Share your latest make in the Patterns for Pirates facebook group, on Instagram (@patternsforpirates) and don’t forget to submit your PINspiredPIRATES entries by January 31st with tag: #PINspiredPIRATES
