We love the drama of the Circée sleeve piece, but if you’re looking for a style that’s a little more classic, here’s how to close the sleeve vent.
A finished example of this hack from @bricnbroc.
Note that in addition to your other supplies, you will need 24 inches (60 cm) of 1/4″ (7 mm) elastic for this hack.
Start with the Circée sleeve piece (7) and trace a line 5/8″ (1.5 cm) from the bottom edge on both sides.
Cut off the excess at the line you just traced. There will now be a continuous line from the top of the armscye to the hem of the sleeve.
Stitch the sides of the sleeve closed with a 5/8″ (1.5 cm) seam allowance. Press open and finish the sleeve allowances as desired.
Fold the bottom edge of each sleeve by 3/8″ (1 cm) twice. From the right side, topstitch the hems in place, leaving a 3/8″ (1 cm) opening at the side seams.
Using a safety pin, insert 12″ (30 cm) of elastic in each sleeve casing. Stitch the elastic to form a loop of the desired length. Cut off the excess. Sew the sleeve casings closed to finish your sleeves and proceed with the Circée instructions as usual.
As drafted, the Circée sleeve features a wide sleeve hem that will create a dramatic bishop sleeve once closed (see the example image from @bricnbroc above). If you’d like less fullness in the cuffs, you can reduce the overall width of the hem. We recommend making a toile to test your changes before cutting into your fashion fabric.
