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How to Take Your Body Measurements for the Perfect Fit.
Accurate body measurements are critical before embarking on a project. In this post, you’ll see some essential tips on measuring yourself accurately, focusing on key body measurements for tops.
Tip #1: Wear your everyday foundational garments, the ones you’d typically wear on any regular day. This ensures that you measure as close to your actual body size as possible.
Tip #2: Leave the shoes behind. Wearing them can alter your posture and affect the measurements. Stand up straight with your feet flat on the floor, and take measurements in a relaxed stance.
Choosing the Right Tools
Use a soft, flexible tape measure for accurate measurements. Make sure the tape is level and parallel to the floor. You can even attach a ribbon or elastic to the tape measure for added convenience.
Taking the Measurements
Now, let’s dive into the crucial body measurements for tops.
- Above Bust Measurement
This measurement is taken just above the bust, capturing the circumference. Ensure the tape measure is snug but not too tight. Remember to breathe normally during this measurement.
- Bust Measurement
Similar to the above bust measurement, this captures the bust’s circumference. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and snug but comfortable. Maintain a relaxed posture and breathing.
- True Waist Measurement
Identify your true waist, the smallest part of your torso. If needed, place your hands on your waist and bend gently to find the indentation. Measure this circumference, ensuring it’s snug but not overly tight.
- High Hip Measurement
This measurement focuses on the high hip area, critical for tops and blouses’ bottom openings. Keep the tape parallel to the floor, relax your shoulders, and measure with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Front Torso Length
Determine where you’d like your tops to finish. Generally, it’s somewhere around the high hip area. Measure from the high point of your shoulder to your chosen finishing point.
- Bicep Measurement
Measure the bicep circumference, usually a bit below the arm’s highest point. Ensure the tape is snug but not constricting, and maintain a relaxed posture and breathing.
Documenting Your Measurements
Use an editable PDF worksheet (downloadable through the form above) to record your measurements. You can choose either inches or centimeters, but if you use inches, remember to include decimal points. Add the date for reference.
Using Your Measurements
Accurate body measurements are invaluable for various aspects of sewing and design:
- Selecting the Right Size: Your measurements help you choose the correct size for sewing patterns, ensuring a better fit.
- Pattern Making: Accurate body measurements are fundamental for drafting patterns tailored to your unique size and fit preferences.
- Pattern Fitting: These measurements can guide you in making pattern-fitting corrections before you cut and sew your garment.
While these are key measurements for tops, pattern drafting involves even more detailed measurements, which I cover extensively in my online course, “Making a Moulage.” If you want to dive deeper into pattern drafting and fitting, it will be opens for enrollment every fall.
Accurate measurements are the foundation of successful sewing and design projects. Whether you’re sewing for yourself or others, investing time in precise measurements pays off in garments that fit beautifully and look fantastic.
Download your FREE- Self-Measuring Guide, and get those measurements right. Happy sewing!