How to take your body measurements for a perfect fit

You probably know that the same size can differ from brand to brand. For instance, you usually buy size M sweaters in one brand, while if you shop in the other one you have to look for size S or size L. So don’t choose the sizes you pick when shopping for ready-made clothes when you’re looking at patterns on Sewing Partner – instead, open up the size chart provided by the pattern brand and compare your measurements to the measurements in the table.

This way of choosing the size is the key to success. If you spend a tad more time doing this instead of going with the size you usually choose, you won’t need to make many – or even any – adjustments to the pattern. The more accurately you take your measurements, the better the result will be.

We’re proud to say there are many sewing pattern brands available on Sewing Partner. Each one of them has their own size chart you need to look at before purchasing a pattern. Sometimes sizing varies even within one brand! We decided to tell you more about the right way of taking your measurements so shopping and sewing with Sewing Partner becomes a breeze.

Here are the main measurements featured in all size charts on Sewing Partner:

Bust

Measure the bust circumference across the fullest part of your bust. The measuring tape should be positioned strictly horizontally. Don’t pull on the tape too much or loosen it when you inhale and exhale. The tape should be flush against your body but without too much tension. Make sure that the tape crosses the bottom part of your shoulder blades at the back.

Waist

Find the narrowest part of your waist and measure around. Stand relaxed, and don’t suck in the belly. Make sure the tape sits flush against your body but not too tight.

Hips

Measure across the fullest part of your hips.

If your hips have some volume that is often called “saddlebags”, make sure to also measure your hips across the most protruding part below the buttocks.

Neck

The measuring tape should go across the 7th vertebrae at the back, then across the base of the neck at the sides, and come to the suprasternal notch between your collar bones.

Upper arm

Measure around the fullest part of your upper arm.

Sleeve length

To measure the sleeve length, slightly bend your elbow and measure between the shoulder point and wrist. The measuring tape should follow the curve of your arm and go across the elbow.

Shoulder width

Measure the shoulders across the most protruding parts. The measuring tape should be positioned strictly horizontally.

Back waist length

Measure from the base of the neck (in the center, not the side) to the center of the waistline.

Chest (upper bust) width

Pass the measuring tape above your bust and just under the armpits.

Back width

Measure across the shoulder blades and the back of the armpits.

If there’s someone else you can ask to take your measurements, don’t hesitate to ask them, as it will help you get the most accurate results. If you have to manage and do it yourself, take your measurements while looking in the mirror to verify the measuring tape placement.

Our bodies tend to change, so we recommend taking the measurements every time you’re on to purchase a new pattern. And pattern adjustment skills will come in handy, too. If you need any help, feel free to ask our sewing professionals for assistance in the special Sewing Partner section — Mentors.