BODY MEASUREMENTS
Most patterns are designed for average figure measurements (English body). The
majority of people fall into the measurement category of model average figures.
There could be some difference such as large hips, big bust/breast,wide shoulders ,
protruding tummy ,exaggerated heights , broad shoulders. Each individual has to
have an accurate record of their body measurements.
Equipment used to take accurate body measurements is the Tape measure.
Rules To Observe When Taking Body Measurements.
a) Ask a friend to take your body measurements.
b) Stand straight against a wall without shoes
c) Remove all thicker outer garments
d) Use a tape measure but make sure if fits around the body
e) Put two fingers underneath the tape measure to allow for free movement,(to
prevent a tight fitting garments.
Standard Body Measurements
BUST place the tape measure round the fullest part of the bust , under arms
and straight across the widest part of the back. Keep two fingers
inside to prevent measuring closely/tightly
WAIST measure to the smaller part of the waist Keep two fingers inside to
prevent measuring closely/tightly
WAIST TO HIP measure from waist to [Link] about 23cm below the waistline
HIPS measure around the widest part of the hips
CHEST measure across the chest from where the armhole seam should be on
one end to the other
SHOULDER measure along the shoulder from the curve against the neck to where
the curve of the shoulder joint meets the arms shoulder seam.
FRONT SHOULDER TO WAIST from highest point on the shoulder over the bust to
the waist
SLEEVE LENGTH place hand by the hip with elbow slightly bent and place tape
measure on the top of the shoulder joint curve. Measure outside
the arm over the elbow down to the wrist
WAIST TO KNEE measure from waist to above the knee and also below the knee
ARMHOLE DEPTH measure from the centre of the curve of the shoulder joint to a
point inline with the armpit
NAPE TO WAIST measure from the most prominent bone at the back of neck ,
down to the waist at the centre back.
WRIST snugly around the wrist
EXERCISE 1
1. What are the four basic measurements required when buying a commercial
pattern.(4)
2. Identify three essential body measurements required when making I)skirt (3)
Ii)blouse(3)
3. Clearly explain how to take the I)waist measurement(2)
Ii)bust measurement(2)
4. Why would you put two fingers inside the circumference when taking the bust
measurement(1)
5. Which tool is used to take body measurements,(1)
6. How do you care for the tool stated in number 5 (2)
7. Give a description of that tool you stated in no 5 (3)
8. Identify three rules to observe when taking body measurements.(3)
THE END