How to Take Your Measurements for Sewing Patterns
Accurate body measurements are the foundation of a well-fitting garment. Pattern companies size by body measurements—not by the finished garment size—so a few minutes with a tape measure will save hours of fitting adjustments later.
The Three Key Measurements
Bust
Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it level and parallel to the floor. The tape should be snug but not tight—you should be able to slip two fingers underneath.
Tip: Wear a well-fitting, non-padded bra (or the bra you plan to wear with the finished garment) when measuring.
Waist
Measure around your natural waist—the narrowest part of your torso, typically 1–2 inches above your navel. Stand relaxed; do not suck in.
Tip: Tie a piece of elastic around your midsection and let it settle naturally; that resting position is your true natural waist.
Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, usually 7–9 inches below the natural waist. Keep the tape level and parallel to the floor.
Tip: Stand with feet together for the most accurate hip measurement.
Additional Measurements
- Back waist length: Measure from the prominent bone at the base of your neck (7th cervical vertebra) straight down to your natural waist. This measurement appears on Misses and Petite size charts.
- Height: Stand without shoes against a wall. Mark the top of your head and measure to the floor. Used for Girls and Boys pattern sizes.
- Chest (Men's): Measure around the fullest part of the chest, under the arms and across the shoulder blades.
Why Sewing Sizes Differ from Ready-to-Wear
Ready-to-wear clothing uses "vanity sizing"—sizes have crept smaller over decades so shoppers feel good about wearing a smaller number. A US retail size 12 today corresponds roughly to a retail size 16 from the 1970s.
Sewing patterns, by contrast, are sized by actual body measurements. A Simplicity size 16 means your bust measures 38 inches—regardless of what your ready-to-wear label says. This means sewists who wear a retail size 8 might cut a pattern size 12 or 14, and that is completely normal.
Always choose your pattern size from the size chart, not from your clothing tag.
Size Charts by Brand
Each pattern company publishes its own size chart. Use these links to find the exact measurements for your brand:
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