After you purchase your new sewing machine, be sure to take the time to get to know it. Especially if you are new to the world of sewing, you will find that a sewing machine has a lot of hidden design elements. One element is the arm of the sewing machine, which is located under the bobbin area.
Some sewing machines have a detachable base, called a free arm. Basically, it takes the working surface where you fabric lies and makes it smaller. This are is then perfect to slide a sleeve over. The sleeve can remain in a circle and you can sew with ease all around it.
Some sewing machines are made specifically for large items, like quilts, and may not have this feature. If you plan on sewing a lot of clothes in the future, be sure to see if the arm will allow for cuffs and sleeves.