Your fabric piece will need to measure 40” (107 cm) by 55” (140 cm). To save time, you might consider asking the store associate to cut your fabric to these exact dimension. If you cannot get this exact measurement from a fabric store, then measure and cut your piece to these dimensions when you get it home. This size fabric piece will create a kimono that falls around or just below your hips. If you want your kimono to be longer, then get a piece of fabric that is longer than 55” (140 cm), such as a 40” (107 cm) by 65” (165 cm) piece. The 40” size piece will result in sleeves that are about 3/4 length. If you want longer or short sleeves, then adjust the width of your fabric piece. For example, if you want longer sleeves, then you might go with a piece of fabric that is 48” (122 cm) by 55” (140 cm). [1] X Research source
Chiffon and silk are slippery fabrics, so you might find it helpful to pin the edges together in a few places. This will help to prevent the fabric from moving as you work.
You may make the first mark on either side of the fabric. You will be repeating the marking process on the opposite side after you make the first set of marks.
If you have decided to make longer sleeves and have chosen a larger piece of fabric, then you will need to add to the length that you measure. For example, if you are using a piece of fabric that is 48" (122 cm), then you might mark the fabric at 9" (23 cm) in from the edge on each side instead.
To ensure a straight line, measure 6” (15 cm) in from the outer edge at the bottom of the fabric and make a mark with your chalk. Then, connect the two 6” (25 cm) marks you have made in a line.
You may want to place a few pins along the inside of each of the lines to keep your fabric from moving while you cut it.
Use a ruler or straight edge to draw the line. To ensure a straight line, you may want to measure and mark from the edge of your fabric to the center in a few places. Then, you can connect these marks into one long line that goes down the middle of your fabric.
Make sure that you only cut through the layer of fabric that you have drawn your line on. Do not cut through both layers of fabric!
Extend the curving line out from the center fold on both sides. This should look something like an ellipses or crescent moon shape. [10] X Research source The curved line should be about 3” (7. 5 cm) long on either side of the central line. Keep in mind that creating this opening is optional, but it will result in a softer, more open neckline.
Remove the pins as you sew.
sleeve openings bottom of the kimono kimono opening neckline (if you have decided to soften the neckline)
To hem the kimono bottom and opening, start at one of the bottom corners of the kimono and sew all the way around the edges of the fabric to secure your hem. Go all the way around the bottom edges, and then sew up and around the kimono opening. Then, sew the edges of each of the sleeve openings to secure the hems here as well. Remove the pins as you sew.
