Learn how to sew our stunning Ruched Opera Length Finger Loop Gloves with our sewing pattern, perfect for adding a sophisticated touch to your next drag queen performance, formal event, or cosplay look.
This pattern features a beautifully ruched outer arm panel paired with a smooth, non-ruched stretch inner arm panel, providing both style and comfort. Ideal for stretch fabrics, these gloves offer versatility and drama, making them a perfect addition to any ensemble. Elevate your evening wear or fantasy costume with these exquisite opera gloves and get ready to captivate with every gesture.
Level: For Beginner Sewist
Sizing Details
Our gloves are designed with drag queens in mind, utilizing standard men's arm measurements to ensure a comfortable and accurate fit.
The gloves are not limited to any specific gender; anyone whose arm measurements match the chart can wear them confidently.
| Katkow Size | Bicep (in) | Elbow (in) | Wrist (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 11" - 12" | 9" - 10" | 7" - 7.25" |
| M | 12" - 13" | 10" - 11" | 7.25" - 7.5" |
| L | 13" - 14" | 11" - 12" | 7.5" - 8" |
| XL | 14" - 15" | 12" - 12.5" | 8" - 8.5" |
| XXL | 15" - 16" | 12.5" - 13" | 8" - 8.5" |
Additionally, if a smaller size is required, our gloves are easy to alter. By choosing the Small (S) size and taking in the side seams, you can achieve a more tailored fit.This flexibility ensures that our gloves are both versatile and accessible to a diverse audience.
Fabric Suggestions
These gloves are suitable for two types of fabrics. For the inner arm panel, use 2-way or 4-way stretch fabric, while for the ruched ruffled panel, you can choose either stretch or non-stretch fabric.
Stretch Fabrics
- Spandex
- Lycra
- Jersey Knit
- Stretch Velvet
- Power Mesh
- Stretch Satin
Non-Stretch Fabrics
- Satin
- Taffeta
- Brocade
- Organza
- Silk Dupioni
- Chiffon
Notions
- 0.25" Elastic for finger loops
- 0.5" Elastic for ruching panel
Fabric Yardage
The yardage below is based on fabric widths of 44 inches. For the inner arm panel, use 2-way or 4-way stretch fabric, while for the ruched ruffled panel, you can choose either stretch or non-stretch fabric.
| Size | Fabric A (Non-stretch) | Fabric A (Stretch) | Fabric B (Stretch) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 0.5 y | 1 y | 0.75 y |
| S | 0.5 y | 1 y | 0.75 y |
| M | 0.5 y | 1 y | 0.75 y |
| L | 0.5 y | 1 y | 0.75 y |
| XL | 0.5 y | 1 y | 0.75 y |
| 2X | 0.5 y | 1 y | 0.75 y |
| 3X | 0.5 y | 1 y | 0.75 y |
| 4X | 0.5 y | 1 y | 0.75 y |
For information on converting inches to meters, please check out our conversion guide.
Sewing Instructions
Fabric Pieces
After cutting your fabric, you should have the following pieces for both your shell and lining fabrics:
- Two “Ruched Outer Arm” pieces
- Two “Inner Arm” pieces
- Two “Bicep Trim” pieces
- Two “Wrist Trim” pieces
- Two “Ruched Elastic” pieces
- Two “Finger Loop Elastic” pieces
STEP 1
Gather the “Ruched Outer Arm” pieces. Hand stitch a large straight stitch along the side edges about 0.25” away from the fabric edge. Repeat for both arm pieces.
STEP 2
On the wrong side of the “Ruched Outer Arm” piece, stretch and pin the elastic evenly along the center fold.
STEP 3
Sew over the elastic with a large zig-zag stitch, ensuring you stretch the elastic as you sew. This will create ruching along the center line.
STEP 4
Pull both ends of the base stitches to create ruching on the sides of the “Ruched Outer Arm” piece. The sides should be gathered down to match the length of the “Inner Arm” sides.
STEP 5
Stack the “Inner Arm” piece over the “Ruched Outer Arm” piece, with the right sides of the fabrics facing each other. Sew the side seams using a stretch stitch, zig-zag stitch, or serger. Then remove the base stitches.
STEP 6
Repeat for the other arm.
STEP 7
Prepare the trim pieces. Fold the trim fabric horizontally in half, right sides facing each other, and sew the ends together. Then roll the right side of the fabric over, creating a folded trim loop.
STEP 8
Position the bicep trim upside down over and around the top edge of the glove, right sides facing each other. Match the seams to a side seam of the glove. Sew the trim with a stretch stitch, zig-zag stitch, or serger. Flip the trim over, moving the seam to the inside of the glove.
STEP 9
Repeat the trim steps for the wrist trim. When you reach the point of the “Ruched Outer Hand” piece, loop the elastic over and sew it down as you sew on the wrist trim. Sew the trim with a stretch stitch, zig-zag stitch, or serger.
Then flip the wrist trim over.
Need help assembling the pattern?
For information on how to print and assemble the downloaded pdf pattern, please check out our printing guide article and video.
