How to Take Body Measurements for Sewing Patterns
Embarking on a sewing project is an exciting endeavor that allows you to create custom clothing that fits perfectly to your body. However, to achieve the best results, it’s crucial to take accurate body measurements. These measurements are essential for selecting the right size in a sewing pattern and ensuring a well-fitted garment. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to take body measurements for sewing patterns, helping you create stunning and comfortable clothing.
Understanding the Importance of Accurate Measurements
Accurate body measurements are the foundation of a successful sewing project. They help you choose the correct pattern size, avoid fitting issues, and ensure that your final garment is tailored to your body’s unique proportions. Even a small error in measurement can lead to a garment that is too tight, too loose, or just plain uncomfortable to wear. Therefore, it’s worth taking the time to measure yourself correctly.
What You’ll Need
Before you start taking measurements, gather the following items:
– A soft tape measure
– A ruler or straight edge
– A piece of paper
– A pen or pencil
How to Take Body Measurements
1. Height: Measure your height without shoes. Stand against a wall with your heels together and your head, shoulders, and buttocks in a straight line. Have someone else measure the top of your head to the floor.
2. Bust: Wrap the tape measure around your chest at the fullest part, just below your armpits. Keep the tape measure parallel to the floor and take a deep breath in. This measurement is important for determining the bust size of your pattern.
3. Waist: Measure around your natural waistline, which is the smallest part of your torso. It’s typically located just above the hip bone. Make sure the tape measure is snug but not too tight.
4. Hip: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, which is usually about 8-9 inches below your waistline. The tape measure should be parallel to the floor.
5. Shoulder Width: Measure from the edge of one shoulder across to the edge of the other shoulder, at the same level as the underarm.
6. Armhole Depth: Measure from the center of your shoulder across to the underarm. This measurement is crucial for determining the armhole size of your pattern.
7. Chest Circumference: Wrap the tape measure around the front of your chest, just below the bust, at the same level as the bust measurement. Take this measurement after taking the bust measurement, as it can vary slightly.
8. Sleeve Length: Measure from the center of your shoulder, down the outside of your arm, to where you want the sleeve to end. This measurement is important for choosing the correct sleeve length in your pattern.
9. Waist to Hem: Measure from your natural waistline to the desired hem length of your garment.
10. Neck Circumference: Measure around the base of your neck, where a shirt collar would sit.
Recording and Using Your Measurements
Once you have taken all the necessary measurements, record them on a piece of paper. Be sure to label each measurement clearly. Use these measurements to select the appropriate size in your sewing pattern and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.
By following these steps on how to take body measurements for sewing patterns, you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful, custom-fitted garments. Happy sewing!
