How to Measure Properly for a Sewing Project

One of the best things about custom-tailored clothing is that it can be made to fit perfectly. Instead of going to the store and buying one size that’s made to fit various body types, you can have clothes that fit just right in every way. It definitely beats buying a small only to find that it’s right on the money around the waist but a mile too short!

For the casual seamstress, measuring can be a bit of a stumbling block. It’s not rocket science, but it does have to be precise in order to get your project just right. Here are some tips to help you measure properly for your next project.

Men and Boys

– For the neck, the measuring tape should go around the base of the neck where the collar sits.
– When measuring the chest, be sure to measure the fullest part. This should be just under the arms, and the tape should be centered over the shoulder blades in the back.
– The waist measurement should be at the natural waist, at or very close to the bellybutton.
– The hips should be measured around the fullest part, leaving the tape loose enough to slide fingers underneath.
– Sleeves should be measured from the top of the shoulder bone to the wrist.
– Inseams should be measured from crotch to ankle, and outseams from the natural waist to the ankle.
– Back width is best measured when wearing a dress shirt. Measure from shoulder blade to shoulder blade at the shoulder seam of the shirt.
– For coats, the center back measurement should be taken from the base of the neck, along the spinal column. Front length goes from the shoulder seam to the desired length of the coat.

Women and Girls

– The bust should be measured at the fullest part, going under the arms. The tape should not be too snug.
– The chest should be measured above and below the bust.
– Inseams and outseams are measured the same way as they are for men.
– The waist should be measured at the smallest point, or where the waist of the garment is to sit. The hips should be measured 6 inches below the waist, and again at the fullest point.
– Skirt length is measured from the waist to the desired length.
– Sleeves are measured from the shoulder to the curve of the wrist, with the elbow slightly bent.

General Tips

– When measuring the hips, the heels should be together.
– Unless otherwise noted, the measuring tape should be snug but not tight.
– It’s always better to take too many measurements than not enough.