Learn How to Add Ruffles to Any Top

Sewsewzoso Upcycle
by Sewsewzoso Upcycle
5 Materials
15 Minutes
Easy

It is never a bad idea to learn some extra sewing technique, so today, I am going to show you how to sew ruffle sleeves. I love these sleeves. They just bring that extra little bit of flair to any outfit!

Tools and materials:

  • Cutting mat
  • Rotary cutter
  • Shirt
  • Sewing machine
  • Pins or clips
Sewing ruffles

Set up your sewing machine

To prepare for sewing your ruffles, let’s begin by setting up your sewing machine. First, set it to straight stitch, then make the length the longest it can be and set the tension to zero. You won’t need (or want) to backstitch at all! Simply let your fabric sail straight through! 41

How to sew ruffle sleeves

Gather your fabric

Take your fabric and let it glide straight through your sewing machine. You’ll already begin to notice gathering without the backstitch.

Easy ruffle sleeves

Pull the fabric across the thread

Once you’ve threaded through the fabric, separate the front and back threads. Then, using only the front threads, begin to pull. The fabric will begin to gather on the thread and form ruffles. 

How to sew ruffles tutorial

Attach the ruffles to a shirt 

Using pins or clips, attach the ruffles to the straps of the top. Next, sew a straight stitch on the strap - this time adjust the sewing machine length setting to two. 

Repeat until complete

Repeat until complete

Repeat these steps until both straps are covered in ruffles. Remember, that separating the fabric into smaller ruffled pieces may make it easier to attach to the strap. 

DIY ruffles


Talk about an upcycle! There is no arguing that this shirt went through a whole transformation. Sewing ruffles really can take your shirt and bring it whole new life. 

Suggested materials:
  • Cutting mat
  • Rotary cutter
  • Shirt
See all materials

The author may collect a small share of sales from the links on this page.

Comments
Join the conversation
 2 comments
Next