How to Sew a Shrug Cape

A sewing tutorial for our drag queen sewing pattern.

Jump to Instructions

Introducing our avant-garde sewing pattern crafted exclusively for drag queens – the Majestic Shrug Cape. This unique piece is designed to introduce a touch of theatrical drama and an ethereal silhouette to any ensemble. With elongated sleeves seamlessly transitioning into a free-flowing cape, this shrug moves with grace and elegance, capturing the essence of dramatic flair. Its open-front design is accentuated with a provision for a chic buckle or clasp right above the chest, offering both style and security. Tailored ideally for lightweight fabrics such as organza, the translucence adds to its mystique, creating a delicate and airy appearance. Wear it atop any outfit to instantly elevate your look, adding a splash of grandeur and finesse. Whether you're strutting on stage or simply aiming to make a statement at a gala, this shrug is your ticket to instant limelight.

Sizing Details

This pattern comes with sizes XS - 4X. Our sizes are unique and made for drag queens so please review our for measurement guide for more information on our size measurements.

Drag Sizes Guide

Fabric Suggestions

Suitable for lightweight fabrics:

  • Organza
  • Chiffon
  • Georgette
  • Voile
  • Charmeuse
  • Lightweight Knits

Notions

  • 1.5 inch buckle or clasps for front closure. Or you can use button, snaps, or velcro. 

Fabric Yardage

This pattern requires a lightweight fabric. Please find the yardage needed for each size below.

Size Fabric Yardage (60” width)
XS 2.5 yards
S 2.5 yards
M 2.75 yards
L 2.75 yards
XL 3 yards
2X 3 yards
3X 3 yards
4X 3 yards

For information on converting inches to meters, please check out our conversion guide.

Yardage Conversion Guide

Sewing Instructions

 

Guide Color Key
Step 1 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 1

Begin by gathering the front and front sleeve fabric pieces. Place them with their right sides facing each other, then pin along the sleeve curve.

Step 2 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 2

Sew them together along the sleeve curve using a straight stitch, zig-zag stitch, or a serger. Follow the same process for the opposite front piece.

Step 3 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 3

At this point, you should have two distinct front pieces assembled.

Step 4 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 4

For the back, gather the back and back sleeve pieces. Like the front, place them with their right sides facing each other and pin along the sleeve curve.

Step 5 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 5

After pinning, sew them together along the sleeve curve.

Step 6 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 6

You'll now have a single assembled back piece.

Step 7 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 7

Prepare for the main assembly by laying out your two front pieces right side up. Overlap the cape on the front pieces with the wrong side up, and then layer the back piece over the cape, also with the wrong side up.

Step 8 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 8

Ensure the layers are aligned along the sleeve, shoulder, and neck edges. Once aligned, pin the layers together and proceed to sew along the sleeve and shoulder seams.

Step 9 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 9

Begin rolling the cape layer upwards, starting from its bottom. The aim is to neatly tuck it within the confines of the sleeves.

Step 10 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 10

With the cape rolled up inside the sleeves, sew the sleeves together and the sides front and back side seams, right sides facing each other.

Step 11 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 11

Turn the garment right side out through the neck hole. Begin hemming the exposed edges, including the neckline, bottom of the shrug, sleeve openings, and the bottom edge of the cape. For a neat finish around the cape attachment, use a seam ripper around the sleeve.

Step 12 How to sew a shrug cape for drag queens

STEP 12

Once all hemming is complete, attach your chosen lightwieght front closure. Choose a button, snap, velcro, buckle or clasp. This pattern is tailored for hardware that's 1.5 inches in size.

Paper Pattern Assembly

For information on how to assemble your downloaded pdf pattern, please check out our printing guide.

Pattern Assembly Guide

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