6. ATTACH SLEEVES
6a. Open up the front and back pieces and place them on the table, right side down. Align the fold line
you pressed into the center of each sleeve piece with the hem at the top of the shoulder, where the back
and front pieces come together, and pin into place.
6b. Sew across the sleeves, attaching them to the body piece.
6c. Fold the pieces over at the top shoulder seam with right sides facing and pin the side seam and
sleeves closed. Starting at the wrist opening, sew the sleeves closed, then complete the underarm
sleeve. Repeat on the other side.
6d. Notch the fabric at the underarm to eliminate bulk and make it easier to move the arm.
6e. Turn the yukata right side out and iron well.
7. MAKE ELASTIC AND TIES
7a. Thread the elastic through 1 of the contrasting fabric tubes, fold the edges on 1 tube end to the
inside, and line up the elastic near the opening. Sew across the tube opening several times, making
sure the elastic is fully caught inside.
7b. Stretch the elastic out through the open end and, using a wide basting stitch, sew down the
center of the tube lengthwise to secure the stretched elastic. Turn the remaining open side of the
tube to the inside and stitch across to seal. Remove basting stitches.
7c. Pin the fabric-encased elastic into place at the outside center back. To determine placement, with
the yukata on, find the spot in the small of your back that corresponds to your waist, or just a little
higher. You want the elastic to fall in the natural curve of your back.
7d. Sew the elastic tube down on both sides lengthwise, slightly stretched, so that it will gather the
back of the jacket.
7e. Make the side ties by folding the open ends of the 2 remaining tubes to the interior and stitching
across to seal. Stitch the left side tie into place on the left side of the elastic tube, and attach the
button to the other end. Stitch the right side tie to the right side of the elastic tube and knot it several
times to create a loose chain that’s just big enough to accommodate your chosen button.
7f. The length of your ties will depend on your waist measurement, but 12" each is typical. You can
adjust this to suit your preferences.
FINISH X
