CHOOSING A SIZE
The biggest question we get asked is what pattern size to choose. So we’re here to help you understand the three key things to keep in mind when deciding on what size to sew. All our patterns are multi-sized to give you the best options possible. Let’s compare:
- Body measurements
- Pattern size chart
- Garment finished measurements
FIRST, you’ll need to know your accurate body measurements, not your Ready-To-Wear size. Our handy guide will show you how to take all the measurements you need to get started.
SECOND, you’ll want to look at the envelope flap for the size chart which will help you know which size envelope to buy. .
The charts match body measurements to sizes. This may be numbered or lettered sizing and on some patterns may be presented as bands eg S = 8-10. Different pattern companies use different charts so don’t assume you’ll be the same size across all brands.
THIRD, you’ll want to check the finished garment measurements. The bust, waist and hip finished measurements are printed on the pattern tissue in the corresponding location. Plus certain finished measurements may also be on the back of many of pattern envelopes.
These will help you hone in on exactly what size to make, how to adjust the size and picture what the finished garment will look like before you start!
| Garment | Use this MEASUREMENT for correct size |
|---|---|
| Dresses, Tops, Jackets and Separates | BUST:Or if you have more than 2 1/2” (6.3cm) difference between and High Bust, select your pattern size using your HIGH BUST* measurement. |
| Skirts & Pants | WAIST measurement: (if your hips are two sizes or more larger than your waist, use HIP measurement. |
| Maternity | SAME PATTERN SIZE you used before pregnancy. |
| Between Two Sizes | SMALLER SIZE for a closer fit, or if you are small-boned, LARGER SIZE for a looser fit. |
How to measure yourself
STANDING MEASUREMENTS
The best way to take accurate measurements is to start in your underwear or in close-fitting clothes. The most important measurements are your bust, waist and hip. You might also find your upper bust measurement helpful as well as back neck to waist.
Hold the tape measure comfortably snug, but not tight (try a breath in and out to make sure). Then measure!
Height is a tricky one to do alone. You might find it helpful to mark a point on the inside of a door frame and then measure to that point afterward stepping away. A little piece of marking tape or a small pencil mark that rubs away is all you’d need.
Bust is the circumference around your ribcage at the fullest part of your bust. Again, remember to breath.
Upper Bust also known as High Bust is the measurement under your armpits, above your bust point. This isn’t a measurement listed on your pattern but a helpful fitting technique. Depending on the amount of difference between your high bust and your full bust you may benefit from a Full Bust Adjustment (FBA) or a Small Bust Adjustment (SBA).
Waist is the point where you’re able to twist and bend from. Some people refer to it as the narrowest point of your torso, but that’s not the case for most figures! The easiest way to find your waist is to place the tape measure, or a piece of string if more comfortable, around where you think your waist is and then start to bend and move, the tape measure will want to sit in the perfect position so let it move up or down if it’s pulling that way. When you’ve found your waist you can measure it, or measure the piece of string you used!
Neck to waist is a handy one for working out if the bodice waist point on your pattern will fall at the right place. Especially if you’ve just located it in the previous step! Measure from the nape of your neck to your waist point. If you’re struggling to reach, try our handy tip with the door frame again to mark your body points and then measure when you step away.
Hip measurements aren’t always taken where your hips are physically found on your body. Here you’re just trying to record the part of your lower half that is the fullest. This could be around your hip or your rear.
SEATED MEASUREMENTS
If you’re seated for long periods of time or are a wheelchair user, you should take your measurements in a seated position. This is because our body mass shifts position when we sit and measurements can increase. You wouldn’t want to make something form fitting and discover it’s tight and uncomfortable as soon as you sit down in it!