To ensure that a finished garment will fit properly, it is important to take the following body measurements, so that you can determine what size you should make.
It is always better to have someone else do the measuring. If that is not an option, you can measure a garment that fits you the way you want, and use these measurements as a guide. Most crochet and knitting pattern instructions will provide general sizing information, such as the chest or bust measurements of a completed garment. Many patterns also include detailed schematics or line drawings. See more about Schematics p. Following are several sizing charts. For individual body differences, changes can be made in body and sleeve lengths when appropriate.
However, consideration must be given to the project pattern. Certain sizing changes may alter the appearance of a garment. Do not draw the tape too tightly. Center Back Neck—to-Wrist- With arm straight, measure from back base of neck, across shoulder, and along arm to wrist. Back Waist Length- Measure from the most prominent bone at base of neck to the natural waistline. Upper Arm- Measure around the widest section of the upper arm located above the elbow.
Armhole Depth- Measure from the top outside edge of the shoulder down to the armpit. Waist- Measure your waist at the smaller circumference of your natural waist, usually just above the belly button.
Head Circumference- For an accurate head measure, place a tape measure across the forehead and measure around the full circumference of the head. Keep the tape snug for accurate results. Sock Measurements- The following measurements are for crew-style or dress socks, which usually come several inches above the ankle and below the calf.
Foot Circumference- To determine the foot circumference, measure around the widest part of your foot. Sock Height- To determine the height of the sock, measure from where you start to turn for the heel shaping to the top of the sock. Total Foot Length- To measure the total length of your foot, place a ruler or tape measure on the floor. Position the back of your heel at the beginning of the tape and the measure to your longest toe. Hand Circumference- Measure around the palm of your dominate hand, which is usually just below the knuckles.
Exclude the thumb. Hand Length- Measure from the wrist to the the base of the hand to the tip of the middle finger or to the top of the longest finger. Skip to main content.