Body Measurements You Should Take Before Sewing

Oct 20, 2026 Audrey Wiryawan
Body Measurements You Should Take Before Sewing
All Blogs 0

Body Measurements You Should Take Before Sewing

Before making a pattern or cutting fabric, body measurements need to be taken correctly. Inaccurate measurements can make a garment too tight, too loose, or poorly balanced.

Use a flexible measuring tape, keep the body relaxed, and write each measurement clearly.

Bust or Chest Circumference

Bust or chest circumference is measured around the fullest part of the chest.

This measurement is important for blouses, shirts, dresses, kebaya, blazers, and outerwear. The tape should stay level and should not be pulled too tightly.

Waist Circumference

Waist circumference is measured around the natural waist.

It is important for dresses, skirts, trousers, fitted blouses, kebaya, and garments with a waist seam.

Hip Circumference

Hip circumference is measured around the fullest part of the hips.

This measurement is needed for skirts, trousers, dresses, tunics, long kebaya, and outerwear that passes the hip line.

Shoulder Width

Shoulder width is measured from one shoulder point to the other.

It helps determine how the sleeve and upper garment sit on the body. If the shoulder measurement is wrong, the garment can look dropped or feel tight.

Garment Length

Garment length determines where the clothing ends.

For blouses and shirts, it is usually measured from the highest shoulder point to the desired hem. For dresses, the length depends on the design.

Sleeve and Arm Measurements

For garments with sleeves, measure sleeve length from the shoulder to the desired end point.

Upper arm, elbow, and wrist circumference may also be needed for long sleeves or fitted designs.

Extra Measurements

Some garments need extra measurements.

Trousers may need thigh, knee, ankle, crotch depth, and trouser length. Fitted dresses or kebaya may need bust height, bust distance, back length, and underbust.

Conclusion

The essential body measurements before sewing are bust, waist, hips, shoulder width, garment length, sleeve length, and arm circumference.

For more detailed garments, add measurements based on the design. Accurate measurements help create better patterns and more comfortable clothing.

Looking for measuring tools and pattern-making supplies?

Istana Kancing provides sewing tape measures, tailor’s chalk, tracing wheels, sewing carbon paper, pattern paper, threads, needles, scissors, buttons, zippers, lining, interfacing, bias tape, lace, ribbons, beads, sequins, and garment accessories for beginners, tailors, fashion brands, garment makers, and wholesale orders.
Share:

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

All Blogs