How to Choose the Right Size on a Multiple-Size Dress Pattern
Before you select a dress pattern, look carefully at the back of the pattern. Most sewing patterns include multiple sizes, and you must determine which size you need to sew to create a properly fitting garment. Take accurate measurements of the person for whom you are sewing, and then compare those measurements with the sizes listed on the pattern package. In this way, you will be able to choose the right size on a multiple-size dress pattern.
Instructions
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Take measurements of the person you are sewing for, and write the measurements down on a piece of paper. Measure the height of the person without shoes; the back from the prominent bone on the back of the neck to the waistline; the bust immediately under the armpits (above the bust); the full bust (squarely across the bust); the natural waistline; and the hips (at the fullest point). If you will be making the dress for yourself, you might need an assistant to help with the back measurement.
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Compare the back measurement and the height measurement with the pattern to determine whether you need to use women's, misses' or petite patterns.
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Choose a multiple-size pattern that includes sizes you think are appropriate for you. Multiple-size patterns will often include sizes for 8, 10 and 12. If you think you are a size 10, compare your hip measurement, waist measuremen, and both bust measurements against the measurements for size 10 on the pattern to see if they match.
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Purchase the pattern that includes a size that fits your measurements. For example, if your measurements match the size 10 in an 8, 10, 12 multiple-size pattern, purchase this pattern.
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Tips & Warnings
If you find your measurements are between two sizes, do not try to average the measurements. Use the smaller size if you are small-boned, and use the larger size if you are large-boned. If you don't consider yourself small- or large-boned, opt for the larger size -- you won't be able to wear the dress at all if it is too small.
Never assume your size in ready-made clothing will be the same for sewing patterns. The two sizing structures are not comparable.
