Sweet Talker | Bubble Sleeve Top PDF Sewing Pattern

This pattern features a bubble sleeve in various lengths. Play up the drama using a fabric with body like linen. Or keep it soft & subtle with a drapey rayon.

• Dramatic bubble sleeves. 
• 3 sleeve lengths: short, above elbow, & below elbow.
• 4 neckline options - high, narrow mid, wide mid, low.
• 3 top lengths.
• Narrow neckline facing.
• Flared silhouette.
• Designed for woven fabrics.
• Elastic hem pattern hack instructions.
• Sizes 4-30 (all sizes included).
• Regular fit is dartless.
• Darted options provided for a larger bust (FBA).
• Straightforward multi-sizing instructions.

The bubble design offers 3 different sleeve lengths, allowing you to customise the look for any season or occasion. Choose from short sleeves, above elbow & below elbow sleeves.

The narrow facing neckline adds a clean, polished edge to the neckline, ensuring a comfortable and professional finish. 

Choose from 3 different lengths to suit your height or your creative vision. The flared hemline gently skims the body for a relaxed yet chic appearance. Hem or add elastic (using the included pattern hack instructions).

Depending on your fabric choice, you can achieve a bold, voluminous look with structured fabrics like cotton or linen, or a softer, more subtle effect with drapey fabrics like rayon or viscose.

The Bubble Sleeve Top is a must-have pattern for anyone looking to add a touch of modern sophistication (and a tiny bit of fabulous drama) to their wardrobe.

It’s drafted in a range of sizes from 4 to 30, including 2 & 3 size full bust adjustment pieces if you need them, so you can create this on-trend piece for yourself.

Size 4-30 (includes all sizes).

View our size chart here.

Measure upper bust to determine size. See tutorial for more details.

SUITABLE FABRIC: Woven.

FABRIC REQUIREMENTS: View the chart here.

FABRIC CHOICE: Choosing the right fabric is important for this top, especially because the bubble sleeves have a lot of gathers at both the top (shoulder) and bottom. Your fabric choice will significantly impact the final look and feel of the garment.

Fabrics with Body (e.g., Linen, Cotton): These fabrics add volume and drama to the sleeves. The gathers will puff out more, creating a more pronounced bubble effect.

Drapey Fabrics (e.g., Rayon, Viscose): These fabrics have more drape and will create a softer, less dramatic puff. The gathers will fall closer to the body, resulting in a more subtle bubble effect.

Fabric suggestions include Rayon & Rayon Challis, Linen & Linen Blends, Cotton Chambray, Viscose Chambray, Cotton Voile, Poplin, Batiste, Crepe, Lightweight shirting, Seersucker, Tencel, Viscose, Sateen, Suiting, Broderie Anglaise.

TRIMS:

• 10mm (3/8") elastic. Length - 2 x around your arm.
• Elastic hem pattern hack only.  2-4cm (3/4-1.5” ) elastic. 

• PRINT AT HOME PATTERN: Yes.
• A0 COPY SHOP PATTERN: Yes.
• PROJECTOR PATTERN: Yes.
  Multi-coloured & black size lines, large text, full pattern pieces.
• LAYERED: Yes.
• TUTORIAL: Step by step guide. Comprehensive instructions. Colour photos. Tips & tricks.

THE BASICS:

• SIZES: 4-30.
• SKILL LEVEL: Experienced Beginner.
• FABRIC TYPE: Woven. 
• MEASUREMENTS: Metric (cms) & imperial (inches).
• SEAM ALLOWANCES: Included. 1cm (3/8") unless otherwise stated.
• OPEN & PRINT IN: Adobe Reader. Get for free here. 
• NEW TO PDF PATTERS? Watch our video series here.

Love the bubble sleeve from our Sweet Talker Top? You can easily add that sleeve to your favourite PE woven patterns and create an instant statement!

• All In Shirt: Transform this classic shirt into a standout piece by adding the bubble sleeve for a modern twist. Includes shirt & shirt dress.
• Take The Chance Dress: Bring extra drama to this button-up dress by swapping in the bubble sleeve.
• Meet You There Dress: Elevate this romantic silhouette by replacing the bishop sleeve with a puffed bubble sleeve.
• Smitten Jacket: Take the gathered sleeve of the Smitten Jacket up a notch with the bold bubble sleeve for a whole new look.
• Be Mine Top: Swap out the balloon sleeve for a dramatic bubble sleeve, giving this top a whole new level of volume and flair.

How to Make It Work:
In the Sweet Talker tutorial, I’ll show you exactly where and how to make the adjustments. It’s easier than you think, and the results will wow you!