How to Measure a Neckband to Make a Pattern

Collar patterns are fairly simple to make, once you have a measurement for the neckband. You can make the collar any style you like, but no matter how it’s shaped, the edge of the collar needs to fit the neckband of the shirt or top you want to attach it to. Measuring the neckband will be easiest with a soft, flexible measuring tape, like the kind sold in fabric stores. They’re very inexpensive and very useful for all kinds of sewing projects.

Things You'll Need

• soft measuring tape
• clothing with a neckband
• paper
• pencil
• scissors

Instructions

Measure a Neckband to Make a Pattern

1. Unbutton or unzip the clothing and spread the neckband flat, if possible. Measure from one end of the neckband to the other, and write this measurement down.

2. For neckbands that can’t be spread flat, or neckbands that have a shape such as a scoop or v-neck, measure the back of the neckband and the front of the neckband separately. Write both measurements down, then add them together.

3. Add seam allowance to your neckband measurement. Most garments use 5/8 inch seam allowance for each side, or 1 1/2 inches total, but you can use seam allowance as small as 1/4 inch for each side, or 1/2 inch total.

4. Mark this distance (the neckband measurement plus seam allowance) on a piece of paper. This will be the lower edge of the neckband.

5. Draw the upper part of the neckband in any style you want. The collar can be pointed at the ends, narrow and rounded, curved in a Peter Pan style or wide and ruffled. Remember to include seam allowance in the collar pattern.

6. Once you have drawn a collar style you like, cut along the lines to make a pattern.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don’t have a soft, flexible measuring tape and you need to measure a curved neckband, you can use a piece of ribbon or non-stretchy string. Cut the ribbon to the same length as the neckband, then spread the ribbon flat and measure it.

• If you want to test the pattern before you use it with real fabric, you can use the pattern to cut two pieces of muslin, cheap cotton or scrap fabric. Place the two pieces of fabric right sides together and stitch along the side and upper edges using the seam allowance you’ve chosen. Leave the lower edge open, and turn the collar right side out. Hold the collar up to the neckband to make sure it looks good. Adjust the pattern if needed.