Taking women’s measurements can be difficult, but it is important. When you are sewing you want to get accurate measurements to make sure your clothes fit correctly. If you don’t measure correctly, you may end up making your clothes too big or small. Here are a few tips on getting the best possible measurements:
General Tips
First, you need a flexible measuring tape (preferably the 60″ kind) This makes it so much easier to take accurate measurements. Second, make sure your measuring tape is even and it isn’t sagging or slanted. Third, when possible, it’s easier to have someone else take your measurements, especially measurements like your inseam. Last, try to keep your body relaxed and don’t suck in. Don’t pull the tape in too tight either, it should be tight, but not digging in. You need to get your measurements for what size your body will be when your just living your life, if you suck in or pull the tape too tight, it will end up smaller than you want.
Measuring Bust, Waist, Hips
Bust: Measure over the fullest part of your bust. Make sure the measuring tape doesn’t slip or droop in the back. If you will need to wear a specific bra when wearing the clothing you’re making (like a wedding or prom dress) make sure you are wearing that bra to ensure the best fit possible.
Waist: First find your hip bones, then the bottom of your ribs. Measure halfway between your hips and ribs, it should be near your belly button and it’s typically the narrowest part of your torso
Hips: Stand with feet together and bring your tape measure over the widest part of your hips and your rear. This is the hip measurement. To make sure it’s accurate, this measurement should ideally be done in your underwear, or at least thin clothing.
Now that you are a pro at taking women’s measurements, you might be interested in learning how to read a pattern, here
