Taking your measurements properly: the basics before cutting your fabric
L'équipe So TissusTaking your measurements is the step everyone wants to skip to get straight to sewing. And that is often where problems begin: a dress too tight at the hips, trousers too long, an armhole that pulls... 10 minutes of accurate measurements will save you hours of alterations.
Essential equipment
- A flexible tape measure (not a DIY metal one!)
- A full-length mirror if you are measuring yourself
- A thin elastic to tie around your waist to find your natural waistline
- A notebook to record all measurements (or your phone)
- Wear well-fitting underwear, no thick clothing over the top
Essential measurements
Bust circumference
Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of the bust, passing under the arms and over the shoulder blades. The tape should be horizontal and not too tight (you should be able to slip a finger underneath).
Waist circumference
Tie an elastic around your waist and move around a little — it will naturally settle in the right place (the narrowest part of the waist). Measure there.
Note: your natural waist is not necessarily where you wear your jeans! It is usually higher.
Hip circumference
Measure at the widest point of the hips and buttocks. Keep the tape level.
Upper hip circumference
About 20 cm below the waist. This is the key measurement for skirts and trousers.
Front bodice length
From the hollow of the shoulder (where the neck begins) down to the waist, passing over the bust point.
Back length
From the cervical vertebra (the bump at the top of the back when you lower your head) down to the waist.
Back width
From one armhole to the other, across the back. Measure about 10 cm below the nape.
Arm length
From the shoulder to the wrist, arm slightly bent. Measure passing over the elbow.
Upper arm circumference
Around the fullest part of the arm (the bicep).
Inside leg
From the crotch to the floor. Measure barefoot, standing straight.
The most common mistakes
Pulling the tape measure tight
This is mistake number 1. We all want to "cheat" a little, but a tape that is too tight will give measurements that are too small and an uncomfortable garment. The tape should skim the body without compressing.
Measuring yourself alone in front of the mirror
It is possible but less accurate. If you can ask someone to help you, that is always better — especially for back measurements.
Forgetting ease
Your body measurements are not the same as garment measurements. You need to add ease (room to move). Most patterns already include ease, but always check.
| Garment type | Bust ease | Hip ease |
|---|---|---|
| Very fitted (bodycon dress) | 0 to 2 cm | 0 to 2 cm |
| Fitted (blouse) | 5 to 8 cm | 4 to 6 cm |
| Comfortable (shift dress) | 8 to 12 cm | 6 to 10 cm |
| Loose (coat) | 12 to 20 cm | 10 to 15 cm |
Not re-taking your measurements
Your body changes! Take your measurements again for each new project, especially if a few months have passed.
How to use your measurements with a pattern
- Compare your measurements to the pattern size chart (not your ready-to-wear size!)
- If you are between two sizes, choose the larger one — it is easier to take fabric away than to add it
- If your measurements correspond to different sizes (e.g. 38 bust, 40 hips), do a size blend by drawing a gradual line between the two
- Make a toile (a test in inexpensive fabric) for important projects
Ready to get started? Discover our fabrics at sotissus.com and find the perfect material for your next project. Questions? Write to us on Instagram @sotissus_com!
