How to Measure Sleeves for Alterations

Measuring sleeve length for alterations is the same for men and women.

When you purchase an item of clothing that does not properly fit, the natural thing to do is have the garment altered. Alteration departments at major department stores, boutiques and independent alteration businesses strive to alter your clothing so that it fits perfectly. When you alter a jacket, shirt or other item with long sleeves it is necessary to measure arm length to ensure the sleeves are neither too long nor too short, which can ruin the entire look of your outfit. Measuring your sleeves for alteration is not difficult, though you do need help to accurately measure the length of your arms.

Things You'll Need

• measuring tape

Instructions

1. Stand up straight with your arms at your sides. Bend one arm at a 90-degree angle, placing your hand on your hip. Continue to stand straight and tall throughout this process.

2. Ask a second person to hold the beginning of a measuring tape at the center of the back of your neck. Have her run the measuring tape from the back of your neck to your elbow and note how many inches it is from the start of the measuring tape to your elbow.

3. Move the measuring tape from your neck to your elbow and measure the length from your elbow to your wrist. Add together the number of inches from your neck to your elbow and from your elbow to your wrist to get an exact measurement for the length of your sleeves.

References

• Lands End: How to Measure