Taking your measurements, without going wrong
A pattern in your size always starts with accurate measurements. Good news: you only need three to get going, plus a tape measure. Here's how to do it, point by point.
In sewing, the shop's 'M' size doesn't mean much: your bust, your waist and your hips almost never fall into the same box. That's why I work from your measurements, not a standard grid. And for that, you need to take them correctly — once they're done properly, you reuse them for every project.
The kit: a tape measure, and that's it
A soft tape measure (the dressmaker's kind, not the rigid DIY one), ideally someone to help you, and something to write with. Measure yourself preferably in underwear or with a thin, close-fitting garment: a thick jumper throws everything off by several centimetres.
Keep the tape nicely horizontal and just resting on the skin — neither tight nor hanging. You should be able to slide one finger underneath, not three.
The 3 basic measurements
These are the only ones the app needs to get started. With those three, a good part of the catalogue is already within reach.
1. The bust
Place the tape at the fullest point of the bust, passing nice and flat across the back. Stand up straight, breathe normally, arms by your sides. This is the measurement that determines the size of the top.
2. The waist
This is the narrowest part of the torso, usually at the level of the navel or a little above. To find it easily: lean to one side, and the fold that forms marks your natural waist. Don't pull your tummy in.
3. The hips
At the fullest point of the hips and bottom, with the tape nice and horizontal. This is what determines the size of the bottom (skirts, trousers) and the width of dresses.
The additional measurements
Depending on the pattern, I may ask you for a few more measurements — the app only requires the ones that genuinely matter for the model you've chosen. For example:
- Back length (from the nape to the waist) — to position the waist of a dress or top.
- Shoulder width and neck circumference — for tops, jackets and dresses.
- Arm length and arm circumference — for sleeves.
- Inseam, thigh circumference, waist-to-floor length — for trousers and shorts.
In the app, each measurement point comes with a 'how to measure' helper: where to place the tape, in which direction, standing or seated. You don't have to guess.
The classic mistakes (and how to avoid them)
- Pulling the tape tight to 'treat yourself' on the figure: the garment will be too tight. Measure reality.
- Measuring over a thick garment: take off the jumper, the stiff jeans.
- Pulling your tummy in or puffing your chest out: stand naturally, the way you really stand.
- Confusing the waist with the low hips: locate your natural waist (the hollow), not the waistband of your trousers.
Sewing for someone else?
You can save several people in the app — you, and your loved ones. Each keeps their own measurements, and you choose who you're sewing for when you create the project. Handy for switching from a dress for yourself to pyjamas for a child without re-entering everything.
And then?
Once your measurements are entered, the pattern recalculates itself to your size, and you can print it at full size. If you're a beginner, choose a simple, rewarding model to start with — you always make better progress through small wins.