Are you looking for a beautiful sewing project that will wow your friends? Learning how to sew a kimono cardigan might be just what you need! This elegant Japanese-inspired garment combines style and comfort. In this guide, I’ll walk you through creating a stunning kimono cardigan with luxury touches like piping and silk lining.
What Makes This Kimono Cardigan Special
This isn’t just any kimono cardigan. We’re making an upgraded version using real wool kimono fabric and silky smooth lining. The piping detail adds a professional touch that makes this project stand out. Don’t worry if you’ve never added piping before – I’ll show you exactly how to do it!
Materials You’ll Need
Before we start cutting and sewing, let’s gather everything we need:
| Material | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wool kimono fabric | Outer fabric | Approximately 2 yards |
| Silk fabric | Lining | Approximately 2 yards |
| Piping cord | For decorative edges | 3-4 yards |
| Bias tape | For making piping | Can use lining fabric |
| Interfacing | For structure | Lightweight press-on canvas |
| Thread | For sewing | Match to your fabric |
| Basic sewing supplies | For construction | Pins, scissors, measuring tape |
Preparing Your Pattern and Fabric
Start by cutting your pattern pieces. You’ll need back pieces, front pieces, sleeves, front bands, and pocket pieces. Cut each piece from both your wool fabric and your silk lining.
For the back piece, cut two layers of kimono fabric. Make small notches at the bottom on each side to mark where your hem will be pressed later.
For the lining back piece, cut it on the fold and add a small pleat at the top. This gives your lining extra room to move inside the jacket, making it more comfortable to wear.
The front pieces should also be cut from two layers of kimono fabric. Don’t forget those hem notches!
Remember that your lining pieces should be slightly shorter at the hem than your outer fabric. This ensures your lining won’t peek out when you wear your kimono cardigan.
Creating the Main Structure
Let’s start by joining the back pieces. Place them right sides together and pin along the center back. Stitch with a 1cm seam allowance, making sure to backstitch at the beginning and end. Press this seam open.
Next, join the front and back pieces at the shoulder seams. Place the front over the back with right sides facing and pin the shoulders. Stitch at the 1cm seam allowance, backstitching at both ends. Finish the edges with an overlocker or zigzag stitch, then press.
Do the same with your lining pieces. For the back lining, don’t forget to stitch that small diagonal pleat at the center back. This creates a nice box pleat effect that allows movement.
Making and Adding Piping
The piping is what makes this kimono cardigan extra special! To make your piping:
- Cut a long strip of bias from your lining fabric
- Fold it lengthwise, wrong sides together
- Place piping cord inside the fold
- Sew near the cord using a zipper foot
Now attach your piping to the outer kimono. Pin it along the center front edges, around the neck, and along the armholes. Stitch within the seam allowance just to hold it in place for now.
Adding the Sleeves
For each sleeve, fold your fabric and cut according to your pattern. Do the same with the lining fabric.
First, sew the sleeve seam with right sides together, using a 1cm seam allowance. Finish the edge and press.
Now comes the tricky part – attaching the sleeve to the bodice while keeping that piping neat. Slide the sleeve up with the bodice with right sides together, sandwiching the piping between them. Use a standard zipper foot to stitch right next to the piping cord. Take your time with this step for the best results.
Creating the Front Band
The front band gives your kimono cardigan structure and a finished look. Cut a back neck piece on the fold and two front band pieces. Cut each twice and interface one set for added structure.
Join the band pieces at the shoulder seams, pressing the seams open. Then attach the band to your outer kimono, again stitching close to the piping. Use pinking shears to trim the seam allowance – this reduces bulk and helps everything lie flat.
Attach the facing pieces to your lining in the same way (minus the piping).
Adding Pockets and Finishing Touches
Pockets make any garment more practical! To make the pockets:
- Cut the pocket pieces from your outer fabric. For the pocket flap, add interfacing for structure.
- Add piping to the bottom edge of the pocket flap for a cohesive look. Attach the flap to the pocket bag, then add the pocket lining. Turn everything right side out through a small opening that you’ll hand stitch closed later.
- Place your pockets about two inches up from the hem and an inch in from the band. Stitch them securely in place.
For belt loops, cut small rectangles of fabric, fold them to hide all raw edges, and stitch. These will hold your belt in place when wearing your kimono cardigan.
Final Steps
Join the lining to the outer kimono along the front band and neckline with right sides together. Turn everything right side out through an opening that you’ll close by hand.
Add a beautiful belt made from your kimono fabric for the perfect finishing touch.
Press your entire kimono cardigan carefully, paying special attention to the edges where the piping is. This step really makes your work shine!
FAQs
How to make a kimono step by step?
Making a kimono starts with selecting your fabric. First, take your measurements. Then, cut your fabric into the main rectangular pieces. Sew the shoulder seams first. Next, create the sleeves by folding and sewing the sides. Add the front bands. Finally, hem all edges. The whole process takes about an hour for beginners.
How much fabric to make a kimono?
For a standard kimono cardigan, you’ll need about 2 yards of fabric. Taller people might need 2.5 yards. If you’re making a full traditional kimono, you’ll need 4-5 yards. The fabric width should be at least 45 inches. It’s always wise to have a bit more fabric on hand than to come up short.
How to make a kimono sleeve pattern?
Kimono sleeves are actually quite simple. Start with a rectangle shape. The width should be about 24 inches. The length should match your arm length plus 2 inches. Fold the rectangle in half. Sew along the open edge. This creates the basic kimono sleeve. No complicated patterns are needed.
What is a male kimono called?
A male kimono is called a “Montsuki” when formal. For casual wear, it’s simply called a “kimono.” Men’s kimonos are usually made in darker colors. They have shorter sleeves than women’s kimonos. The designs are also more subtle and geometric.
How do you wear a real kimono?
Wearing a real kimono involves several steps. First, put on a special undergarment called a “juban.” Wrap the left side over the right side. Never wrap right over left – this is only done for funerals. Secure it with a special sash called an “obi.” The hem should fall to the ankles. Proper kimono wearing takes practice and often requires assistance.
Ready to Show Off Your Creation
Congratulations! You’ve learned how to sew a kimono cardigan with professional details like piping and luxury fabrics. This versatile garment can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for many occasions.
The combination of traditional kimono style with modern cardigan function creates a truly unique piece for your wardrobe. Plus, when people ask where you got it, you can proudly say you made it yourself!
Have you tried making your own kimono cardigan? I’d love to see your creation! Share a photo or ask any questions about the process. Happy sewing!