Body measurement rules
Use a tape measure that doesn't
stretch. ...
Don't measure over bulky clothes. ...
Don't pull the tape measure too
tight. ...
Try not to take your own
measurements. ...
Tie a ribbon around the natural
waistline. ...
Rules in Taking Body
Measurement
Wear undergarments or bodysuit
when measuring.
Use tape measure that does not
stretch.
Tie a string around your natural
waistline.
Pull the tape snug, but not too tight.
Accurate body measurements
are crucial in fashion design to
ensure garments fit perfectly,
enhancing comfort and
appearance.
Basic Body Measurement
Techniques
To effectively perform body measurements, there are a
few key techniques you should learn and practice:
Standing Straight: Always ensure the subject stands
straight with feet slightly apart to get precise
measurements.
Using a Flexible Tape: A soft, measuring tape should be
used, as it can easily wrap around the body’s curves.
Measuring Specific Points: Focus on essential body
Consistent Measurement Points:
Always use the same starting and ending
points to maintain consistency in
measurements.
Each measurement aims to capture the
unique characteristics of the individual’s
body. Chest, waist, and hips are some
standard measurements needed in clothing
design and other art forms.
Taking Body Measurements
Measurements are the foundation
of pattern drafting. They establish
basic axes which are natural to the
body. These axes are then used to
reconstruct the shape of the body
onto the paper. They must take
with complete accuracy.
How to Measure
Measuring Tools
Tape measure
Pencil
Notebook
Hem gauge
Hem Marker
Procedure in Taking Body
Measurements
There are several parts of the body to be
measured. These are taken in:
• Horizontal measurement
• Vertical measurement
• Circumferential measurement
The horizontal measurement is taken
from the left of the figure to the right.
Shoulder. Measurement is
taken from the tip of the left
shoulder to the tip of the right
shoulder, arching slightly to
cover the cervical prominence
of the neck bone.
Bust point width.
Measurement is
taken across from the
tip of the left bust
point to the tip of the
right bust point.
The circumferential
measurement is taken around
the body.
Bust. Measurement is
taken around the bust
with the tape measure
running on the same
level in front, at the
back and on the sides.
Waist.
Measurement
taken around the
smallest part of
the torso.
First hip.
Measurement is
taken around the hip
level where the
stomach is fullest.
Second hip.
Measurement is
taken around the hip
level where the
buttocks are fullest.
Armhole.
Measurement is
taken around
the armhole.
Arm girth.
Measurement is
taken around the
arm.
The vertical measurement is taken
from the top of the body figure to its
base.
Figure back.
Measurement is taken
from the center of the
back shoulder over the
shoulder blade down to
the waistline level.
Figure front.
Measurement
taken from the
neck point
passing over the
bust down to the
waistline level.
Bust point
height.
Measurement is
taken from the
neck point down
to the highest
point of the bust
Length of
sleeve.
Measurement is
taken from the
shoulder point
down to the
desired length in
the arms.
Length of skirt.
Measurement is
taken from the
waist down to the
Horizontal measurement Inches
Shoulder
Front chest
Bust distance
Back width
Circumferential
Inches
measurement
Bust
Waist
First hip
Second hip
Armhole
Arm girth
Vertical measurement Inches
Figure back
Figure front
Bust height
Full Bodice length
Sleeve Length
Length of skirt/Pants Length
Checked by: __________________
