Sewing Measurements Chart – Body Measurements in CM & Inches
Use this sewing measurements chart to record body measurements for dressmaking, alterations and sewing patterns. Learn where to measure the bust, waist, hips, sleeves and inseam, with a handy centimetres (cm) to inches reference.
For most clothing patterns, start with your bust or chest, natural waist and full hip measurements. Use a flexible tape measure, keep it level without pulling tight, and record results in the units required by your pattern. Always check the pattern's finished-garment measurements and ease.
Body measurement guide · CM to inches · Measurement worksheet · FAQs
How to Take Sewing Body Measurements
Stand naturally in close-fitting clothing, ideally with help for measurements across the back. Use a flexible tape, keep it parallel to the floor for horizontal measurements and measure twice. Do not hold your breath or pull the tape tight.
| Measurement | Where to measure |
|---|---|
| Bust / chest | Around the fullest part of the bust or chest, tape level. |
| High bust | Around the upper chest, above the fullest part of the bust. |
| Natural waist | Around the narrowest part of the torso or where the body naturally bends. |
| High hip | Around the upper hip, typically below the natural waist. |
| Full hip / seat | Around the fullest part of the hips and seat. |
| Shoulder width | Across the back between shoulder points. |
| Back waist length | From the prominent bone at the base of the neck to the natural waist. |
| Sleeve length | From the shoulder point to the wrist, with the arm slightly bent. |
| Bicep / upper arm | Around the fullest part of the upper arm. |
| Wrist | Around the wrist where a cuff will sit. |
| Neck | Around the base of the neck. |
| Inseam | From crotch to desired trouser hem, preferably measured on well-fitting trousers. |
| Outseam | From the intended waistband position to the desired hem. |
| Garment length | From the pattern's specified starting point to the intended hem. |
Important: Exact measuring points can vary by sewing pattern. Follow the pattern company's diagram when one is provided. Body measurements and finished-garment measurements are not the same.
Sewing Measurement Conversion Chart – CM to Inches
1 inch = 2.54 cm. Divide centimetres by 2.54 to get inches; multiply inches by 2.54 to get centimetres. Values below are rounded to two decimal places.
| Centimetres (cm) | Inches (in) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 0.39 |
| 2 | 0.79 |
| 3 | 1.18 |
| 5 | 1.97 |
| 10 | 3.94 |
| 15 | 5.91 |
| 20 | 7.87 |
| 25 | 9.84 |
| 30 | 11.81 |
| 40 | 15.75 |
| 50 | 19.69 |
| 60 | 23.62 |
| 70 | 27.56 |
| 80 | 31.50 |
| 90 | 35.43 |
| 100 | 39.37 |
| 110 | 43.31 |
| 120 | 47.24 |
| 130 | 51.18 |
| 140 | 55.12 |
| 150 | 59.06 |
Body Measurement Worksheet
Use this simple checklist to record your own measurements. You can copy it into notes or print this page using your browser's print function.
| Measurement | My measurement (cm or in) |
|---|---|
| Bust / chest | ________________ |
| High bust | ________________ |
| Natural waist | ________________ |
| High hip | ________________ |
| Full hip / seat | ________________ |
| Shoulder width | ________________ |
| Back waist length | ________________ |
| Sleeve length | ________________ |
| Bicep / upper arm | ________________ |
| Wrist | ________________ |
| Neck | ________________ |
| Inseam | ________________ |
| Outseam | ________________ |
| Garment length | ________________ |
How to Choose a Sewing Pattern Size
- Take current body measurements instead of relying on ready-to-wear clothing labels.
- Compare measurements with the specific pattern brand's size chart.
- Read the pattern's finished-garment measurements to understand wearing ease and design ease.
- For fitted garments, consider making a test version (toile or muslin) before cutting expensive fabric.
- If your measurements fall across several sizes, follow the pattern's guidance for grading between sizes.
Common Measurement Mistakes
- Measuring over bulky clothing: this can increase the recorded size.
- Pulling the tape too tightly: this can lead to garments that feel restrictive.
- Confusing natural waist and trouser waistband: they may sit at different heights.
- Assuming a dress size equals a pattern size: sizing systems differ.
- Ignoring ease: the finished garment usually needs room for movement, depending on style and fabric.
Sewing Measurements FAQs
What measurements do I need for sewing clothes?
Bust or chest, waist and full hips are common starting points. Sleeve, shoulder, torso and leg measurements may also be needed depending on the garment and pattern.
Are sewing pattern sizes the same as shop clothing sizes?
Not necessarily. Use the measurement chart supplied with the sewing pattern rather than choosing solely by your usual retail size.
Should I measure in centimetres or inches?
Either is fine. Use the unit shown on your pattern, or convert using 1 inch = 2.54 cm.
What is sewing ease?
Ease is the difference between body measurements and the finished garment's measurements. It can allow movement or create a particular silhouette; some stretch garments may have negative ease.
How often should I remeasure?
Remeasure before a new fitted project or whenever your measurements may have changed.
Related Fosmore Guides
Explore Size Charts Hub and Sewing Machine Needle Size Chart. For additional craft references, see Knitting Needle Size Conversion Chart and Crochet Hook Size Conversion Chart.
Disclaimer
This guide is for general educational use. Measurements and fit depend on the person, garment, fabric and sewing pattern. Always check the pattern manufacturer's instructions and size chart before cutting fabric. Fosmore is not affiliated with any pattern manufacturer.