How to Measure Yourself

Only basic body measurements are needed to determine your pattern type and size. Remember to wear proper undergarments and shoes when measuring. Also, make sure the tape measure is held snugly and firmly (not tightly) against your body and is always parallel to the floor for circumference measurements.

Bust: around the fullest part of the bust and straight across back

Chest: around body above fullest part of bust

Waist: around body at natural waistline

Hip: around body at fullest part- usually 7-9’’ (18-23cm) below waist

Back waist length: from the most prominent bone at base of neck to the natural waistline

Height: measure (without shoes) standing against a wall

Neckband: around the base or neck

Shirt sleeve: from back base of neck across shoulder around bend of elbow to wrist

Compare your height and body measurements to the measurement charts to select your size category.

For dresses, blouses, tops, vests, jackets and coats, select size according to your bust/chest measurement. Adjust the waist and/or hip, if necessary. If there is more than 2’’ (5cm) difference between your bust and chest measurement, select pattern size by your chest measurement, because you will achieve a better fit through your shoulders, chest and upper back; adjust the bust if necessary.

For skirts, pants, shorts, and culottes, select size to correspond with your waist measurement. Adjust the hip, if necessary. If your hips are much are much larger than your waist, select size closest to your hip measurement and adjust the waist.

When purchasing a pattern that includes a blouse, jacket, skirt and/or pants, select size by your bust/chest measurement and adjust the waist and/or hips if necessary.

If your measurements fall between two sizes, consider your bone structure. If you are thin and small-boned, choose the smaller of the two sizes. If you are larger boned, choose the larger size. Personal preference may also influence your size selection depending on whether you prefer a looser or a closer fit.

For maternity patterns, select according to your measurements before pregnancy.