Measuring and Fit FAQ
How do I get help with measuring and fit?
- We have totally free support for measuring and fit.
- First, follow the instructions for measuring and making your fit garments that come with your specific program.
- If you need additional help, click here for instructions on how to get help with measuring and fit.
What is the best way to achieve great fit?
- The BEST way to achieve great fit is to take your body measurements as accurately as possible and sew the recommended fitting garment.
- DON'T agonize over the measurements.
- Make the recommended fit garments using the best set of measurements you can take and the program's default settings.
- After making your fit garment, contact our free technical support center and we will be happy to assist you in refining the fit. We are really really good at it!
Can I take my own measurements?
- While we recommend that you have a buddy take your measurements, it is possible to take them yourself.
- Our programs use body measurements that are mostly easy to take by yourself.
- Our programs also ship with illustrated instructions, movies, and free technical support to assist you in the measuring process.
What are the size limits of your programs?
- PatternMaster Boutique, Knits, and Curves: There are no upper size limits for our PatternMaster women's programs. The lower size limit is about a 28 inch (72 cm) chest circumference. All women's programs draft for the female figure with a bustline.
- PatternMaster Tailor Made: There are no upper or lower size limits for Tailor Made. Tailor Made can draft patterns for boys and teenagers.
- PatternMaster Child's Play: Child's Play drafts patterns for infants 0 months to adolescents about age 16. It drafts patterns for the female figure with no bustline.
Why do I have to use light colored fabric for my fit garment?
- Dark colored and print fabrics make it very difficult to identify the balance lines marked on the garments and any folds and wrinkles that point to fit problems.
Why should I draw the balance lines on the fit garment?
- The balance lines - horizontal lines that mark the chest, waist, and hip locations help us to determine where specific fit problems lie.
- The balance lines at the waist and hip make it possible to see if the garment is level. An unlevel waistline or hipline can create folds in the bodice side or front and back of the skirt.
Why do I have to put in the sleeves, zipper, and waistband?
- The patterns for the fitting top and dress are designed for sleeves. A sleeveless garment actually has a different armhole than a garment with sleeves.
- To judge the fit it is important to install the both sleeves and trim the armhole seam allowance. Do not worry about the sleeve cap looking perfect.
- Without the sleeves inserted on both sides of the garment, it is not possible to judge the fit across the shoulders or chest.
- The zippers allow the garments to close properly and not gape.
- The waistband on the pants or skirt help stabilize the garment and make it hang from the correct location.
Why does my head need to be in the photographs?
- Your head needs to be in the photographs for the fitting dress, top, or shirt so that the neck and shoulders are not cut off.
- It also helps us to determine if posture is causing any fit problems.