Accurate body measurements are the single most important factor in knitting a sweater that fits well. Standard sweater ease ranges from 2-4 inches for a comfortable fit, which means even small measurement errors compound into noticeable fit problems. Whether you're following a published pattern or generating a custom one with La Maille, your measurements are the foundation of every stitch count. Here's exactly how to measure yourself correctly.
Why Measurements Matter More Than Size Charts
Pattern sizes (S, M, L) are based on standardized body measurements that may not match your body at all. The "medium" in one pattern might fit a 36-inch bust; in another, it's designed for 40 inches.
Your actual measurements tell the truth. When you know your numbers, you can:
- Choose the right pattern size
- Modify patterns for a custom fit
- Use tools like La Maille to generate patterns that fit your exact body
Essential Measurements for Sweaters
You'll need these core measurements for most sweater patterns:
Bust/Chest Circumference
How to measure: Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your bust/chest, keeping it parallel to the floor. Don't pull tight — the tape should be snug but not compressing.
Why it matters: This is the primary measurement that determines your pattern size. Everything else flows from here.
Waist Circumference
How to measure: Measure around your natural waist — the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above your belly button. Bend sideways to find where your body creases; that's your natural waist.
Why it matters: Important for fitted sweaters with waist shaping. Less critical for boxy or oversized styles.
Hip Circumference
How to measure: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom, keeping the tape parallel to the floor.
Why it matters: If your sweater extends below the waist, hip measurement ensures it won't pull or ride up.
Shoulder Width
How to measure: Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the other, across your upper back. The "edge" is where your arm meets your shoulder — where a set-in sleeve seam would sit.
Why it matters: Determines where sleeves attach and affects overall fit through the upper body.
Arm Length
How to measure: Bend your elbow slightly. Measure from the edge of your shoulder, down over your elbow, to your wrist bone.
Why it matters: Ensures sleeves are the right length. Nothing worse than sleeves that end mid-forearm.
Upper Arm Circumference
How to measure: Measure around the fullest part of your upper arm, usually just below the armpit.
Why it matters: Ensures sleeves aren't too tight. Add ease here for comfortable movement.
Body Length
How to measure: Measure from the top of your shoulder (where a sweater seam would sit) down to where you want the hem to fall.
Why it matters: Determines overall sweater length. Consider your torso proportions — long-waisted people may need to add length.
Optional But Helpful Measurements
Cross-Back Width
How to measure: Measure across your upper back from armpit to armpit.
Why it matters: Helps ensure the back isn't too wide or narrow, especially for set-in sleeve constructions.
Neck Circumference
How to measure: Measure around the base of your neck where a crew neckline would sit.
Why it matters: Useful for fitted necklines or turtlenecks. Not needed for most crew or v-neck patterns.
Armhole Depth
How to measure: This is tricky to measure directly. Measure from the top of your shoulder down to your armpit.
Why it matters: Affects comfort and range of motion. Deeper armholes feel more relaxed; shallower ones are more fitted.
Tools You'll Need
Flexible tape measure: The soft kind used for sewing. Don't use a metal construction tape measure.
A friend: Some measurements are much easier with help, especially shoulder width and cross-back.
A mirror: If measuring alone, a mirror helps ensure the tape is positioned correctly.
Paper and pen: Write measurements down immediately. Don't trust your memory.
How to Get Accurate Results
Wear fitted clothing: Measure in underwear or a thin, close-fitting layer. Bulky clothes add inches.
Stand naturally: Don't suck in your stomach or puff out your chest. Stand how you normally stand.
Keep the tape parallel: For circumference measurements, the tape should be level all the way around.
Measure twice: Take each measurement at least twice. If results differ, measure a third time.
Don't pull tight: The tape should touch your body all the way around but not compress or indent your skin.
Common Measurement Mistakes
Measuring over bulky clothes: Adds 1-2 inches to every measurement. Always measure close to the body.
Holding your breath: Breathe normally. A sweater you can only wear while not breathing isn't practical.
Letting the tape droop: Keep it parallel to the floor for circumference measurements.
Measuring to your current clothes: Your favorite sweater's measurements include ease. Body measurements should be your actual body.
Forgetting to write it down: You will not remember that your upper arm is 13.5 inches tomorrow. Write everything down.
From Measurements to Pattern
Once you have your measurements, you can:
Compare to pattern sizing: Most patterns include a finished measurements chart. Compare your bust measurement plus desired ease to the pattern's finished bust to choose your size.
Calculate ease: Ease is the difference between your body measurement and the finished garment. 2-4 inches of positive ease gives a comfortable fit; 6+ inches is oversized.
Generate custom patterns: Tools like La Maille use your exact measurements and gauge to create patterns that fit your body specifically — no size chart required.
Recording Your Measurements
Keep your measurements somewhere permanent:
- Notes app on your phone
- Knitting notebook
- Spreadsheet
Update them annually or when your body changes significantly. Bodies change — that's normal and nothing to worry about.
Measurements for Different Fit Styles
The same body measurements can produce different fits depending on ease:
Close-fitting: 0-2 inches of ease at bust. The fabric skims your body.
Standard fit: 2-4 inches of ease. Comfortable, not tight or loose.
Relaxed fit: 4-6 inches of ease. Room to move and layer underneath.
Oversized: 6+ inches of ease. Deliberately loose and drapey.
When choosing pattern sizes or generating custom patterns, decide what fit style you want first, then add the appropriate ease to your measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What measurements do I need for a knitted sweater? Essential: bust, waist, hip circumference, shoulder width, arm length, upper arm circumference, and desired body length. Optional: cross-back width, neck circumference.
How do I measure my bust for knitting? Wrap tape measure around the fullest part of your bust, parallel to the floor. Keep it snug but not compressing. This is your primary sizing measurement.
Should I measure over clothes? No. Measure in underwear or thin, close-fitting clothing. Bulky clothes add 1-2 inches to every measurement and will throw off your pattern sizing.
What's the difference between body measurements and finished measurements? Body measurements are your actual body. Finished measurements are the garment size, which includes ease. A 38" bust might wear a sweater with 42" finished bust (4" ease).
How often should I update my measurements? Annually, or whenever your body changes significantly. Bodies change — that's normal. Accurate current measurements ensure well-fitting garments.
Ready to Use Your Measurements?
With accurate measurements in hand, you can confidently choose pattern sizes, modify existing patterns, or generate custom patterns that fit your body perfectly.
Try La Maille — enter your measurements and gauge, upload a photo of any sweater you love, and get a pattern made for your exact body.