Items on a Sewing Measurement's Worksheet

With the rising cost of clothing, many families have started sewing their own clothing. This is particularly true with high ticket clothing (such as fancy or Couture dresses). Knowing how to properly measure and fit clothing to individuals is an integral part of sewing process.

A sewing worksheet is put together when being planned out to make sure all the items are sewed properly. There are a number of items included.

• The high bust. The measurement from beneath the arms. Also used as the chest measurement.


• Full bust. A measurement taken at the fullest part of the chest, around the body.


• Bust point. Taken by measuring the middle of the shoulder to the center of the breast, and from the center of one breast to the other.


• Cross back. The measurement of the back.


• Shoulder width. Taken from the joint of the shoulder to the neckline.


• Natural waist. This is done by running a piece of string along the waist and letting it settle in place. You should take a sitting and standing measurement. If there are differences, use the sitting measurement.


• Back waist length. The measurement from the nape of the neck to the lower part of the natural waist.


• Waist to floor length. Measuring from the waist to the floor.


• High hip. Three inches below the waist and around the body. For women, this is likely their "pooch".


• Full hip. The fullest area of the hips across the thighs. 


• Thigh measurement, from the crotch to the knee.


• Upper arm. Measuring the bicep, with the arm slightly bent.


• Full sleeve length. A measurement running from the shoulder to the wrist bone. Should be taken with the arm bent.


• Wrist (loose, allowing for movement).


• Pants length. From the waist to just beneath the ankle bone.


• Skirt length. Starting at the side seam of the waist and going down to the desired skirt length.


• Dress length. Starting at the back of the neck and leading down as far down as length is desired.