How to Create a Full-Length Kimono
First I will explain that this class handout developed when I was asked to teach how to make a kimono. My lord has very wide shoulders and the original loom widths of the Japanese during this time would not have accomodated someone of his size. This pattern development is for pretty much anyone and uses the concepts of proportion to achieve the right look of the finished product.
1. Measure from wrist to wrist with arms raised to the sides. This measurement is divided by 4. This is loom width.
2. Measure from shoulder (near the neck) to floor. Double this measurement.
3. Cut three lengths of this last measurement at the designated width.
4. Put two of the lengths together, fold in half. Cut fold about 4 inches in.
5. Lay out the two pieces once again. From the incision to one end cut off 4 inches. (This will be the cut out for the neck)
6. pin and sew the other half that was not cut (center back seam)
7. The 3rd length is cut in half. One of the halves is cut in half again (These are the sleeves)
8. Center the sleeves to the neck line and sew the shoulder seams to the body.
9. The sleeves have a curve at the outside corner and are sewn up a third of the distance.
10. Sew up the side seams.
11. The leftover fabric from the third length is cut lengthwise. Taper the one end on a gradual angle (these are the gores that attach to the front opening. “a”) Sew the gores on to “b”. (Use wider gores for a better fit if needed)
12. The cut out of the neckline becomes the collar of the garment (use both pieces to double up to create firmness in the collar). Fold in half, center over back seam and pin and sew to garment.
13. Hem the bottom.