If you're new to dressmaking, knowing how to measure yourself correctly is an essential skill and it will enable you to make garment that fit like a glove!
Before you begin any dressmaking project, always measure yourself before you choose which pattern size to make. The sizing can vary greatly from pattern to pattern and brand to brand, so don’t just assume you’re a particular size. It's worth taking the time at this stage before you spend time lovingly crafting a new garment. Scroll down for our essential guide to how to take your own measurements, including how to measure waist, how to measure inseam (inside leg) and how to measure bust.
So let's go! We'll talk you through how to take all of your body measurements below, then compare them to our sample size chart to practise picking which size to sew. You'll usually find a sewing pattern's size chart printed on the pattern envelope or on the instruction sheet inside.
Read on to learn how to measure yourself…
Looking for more dressmaking tips? Learn how to sew a button, how to use a sewing pattern or how to insert an invisible zip. If you're ready to start making your own clothes then check out our best sewing patterns for beginners.
Top tips for how to take your body measurements
Before you begin, make sure you read these tips to help you get the perfect fit:
- Measure yourself in your underwear and preferably in the bra you’ll be wearing underneath your garment as this can alter the measurements slightly.
- For accuracy, use a fabric tape measure as it’ll curve around your body.
- You can measure on your own if you stand in front of a mirror, but for best results ask a friend to help so they can check the tape measure is sitting in the right places.
- Make sure the tape measure sits snuggly around you but isn’t too tight.
