How to Take Accurate Body Measurements for Sewing and Pattern Drafting
Taking accurate body measurements is essential for sewing, fashion design, and custom pattern drafting. This guide explains every key point of measure, from bust and waist to arm length and pant length, so you can achieve professional results when creating garments. Use this step-by-step reference with our sewing patterns for a perfect fit.
Points of Measure (POM)
Measurements Drawing 1
- Bust/Chest circumference – Measure around the upper torso through the bust point at the fullest part of the chest.
- Waist circumference – Measure around the smallest part of the waistline.
- Hip circumference – Measure around the fullest part of the hip and buttock.
- Neck circumference – Measure the base, or nape of the neck.
- Ankle circumference – Measure around the ankle, just above the most prominent ankle bone.
- Cross front – Measure across the upper chest at mid-armhole.
Measurements Drawing 2
- Center back length – From the top-most vertebra nearest shoulder level to the waistline.
- Armhole depth – From the same vertebra to 1" below the armpit. Use elastic or a tie to mark the armpit.
- Cross back – Across the shoulder blades from mid-armhole.
- Cross shoulder – Across the shoulder line from shoulder tip through the vertebra, back to the shoulder tip.
Measurements Drawing 3
- Arm length – Hand on hip, measure from shoulder tip, through the elbow to wrist bone.
- Bicep circumference – Fullest part of the bicep.
- Wrist circumference – Around the wrist just below the wrist bone.
- Shoulder length – From the side of the neck to shoulder tip.
- Bust point length – From side of the neck to bust point.
- Bust point width – Distance between bust points.
Measurements Drawing 4
- Pant length – From waistline to ankle.
- Knee length – From waistline to knee.
- Crotch length – From center front waist through the legs to center back waist.
- Hip depth – Vertically from waist to fullest part of hip.
- Crotch depth – Seated on a flat surface, vertically from waist to seat.
Download the Printable Body Measurements Guide
Keep track of your own measurements with this free PDF guide. It includes step-by-step measuring instructions plus a chart where you can record your body measurements along with space for two additional bodies or sizes. Perfect for sewing, pattern drafting, and costume design.
