How to Measure Yourself for Sewing Patterns
Choosing the correct sewing pattern size starts with accurate body measurements—not your ready-to-wear clothing size. Pattern companies use standardized body measurements, while clothing brands often use vanity sizing. Measuring yourself correctly ensures better fitting garments and reduces the amount of alterations needed later.
For the most accurate results, use a flexible dressmaker's measuring tape, stand naturally without holding your breath, and wear lightweight clothing or measure over undergarments.
1. Bust Measurement
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust while keeping the tape level around your back. The tape should be snug but not tight. This measurement is the primary reference for most sewing pattern companies.
2. Waist Measurement
Measure around your natural waist, which is usually the narrowest part of your torso. Avoid sucking in your stomach, as this will produce an inaccurate size recommendation.
3. Hip Measurement
Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips. Keep the measuring tape parallel to the floor throughout the measurement.
Why Sewing Pattern Sizes Differ from Store Clothing
One of the most common mistakes beginners make is choosing a sewing pattern based on the size they buy in stores. Unfortunately, clothing manufacturers use different sizing systems, and many brands practice vanity sizing to make garments appear smaller.
Sewing patterns are based on body measurements instead of finished garment measurements. This is why someone who normally wears a US size 8 dress may discover that a sewing pattern recommends a size 12 or 14. This is completely normal.
Understanding Wearing Ease
Wearing ease is the extra space intentionally added to a garment so you can move comfortably. Design ease is additional fullness added for style. Loose dresses, oversized jackets, and relaxed shirts all include more ease than fitted garments.
Before cutting your fabric, compare your measurements with both the body measurement chart and the finished garment measurements if they are provided by the pattern manufacturer.
How to Choose Between Two Pattern Sizes
Many sewists fall between two sizes. This is perfectly normal because very few people match a standard size chart exactly.
- Choose based on bust for tops and dresses.
- Choose based on hip for skirts and pants.
- Blend between sizes when necessary.
- Check finished garment measurements whenever possible.
US, UK and EU Sewing Size Conversion
Different countries use different numbering systems. Our calculator converts your measurements into equivalent US, UK and EU sewing sizes, making it easier to purchase international sewing patterns without guessing.
| Region | Common Sizes |
|---|---|
| US | 0–22+ |
| UK | 4–26+ |
| EU | 32–54+ |
Common Mistakes When Measuring Yourself
- Pulling the measuring tape too tightly.
- Measuring over bulky clothing.
- Holding your breath.
- Using clothing size instead of body measurements.
- Ignoring hip measurements for skirts and pants.
- Ignoring the pattern company's size chart.
Tips for Better Sewing Pattern Fit
- Measure yourself every few months.
- Always sew a muslin before cutting expensive fabric.
- Compare finished garment measurements.
- Read the pattern instructions before cutting.
- Keep your measurements written in a sewing notebook.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sewing Sizes
Should I use my clothing size?
No. Always use your actual body measurements because clothing brands and sewing pattern companies use different sizing standards.
Which measurement is most important?
For dresses and tops, bust is usually the primary measurement. For skirts and pants, hip measurements are generally more important.
Can I blend multiple sizes?
Absolutely. Many experienced sewists blend between sizes at the bust, waist and hips to achieve a better fit.
Use Our Free Sewing Pattern Size Calculator
Instead of manually comparing multiple size charts, simply enter your bust, waist and hip measurements into the calculator above. It instantly recommends your closest sewing pattern size and converts it between US, UK and EU sizing systems, making it easier to choose the correct pattern before purchasing fabric.