SMS Pattern Size Ranges

SMS sewing project and pattern step by step how to make a dress jumpsuit

You may have noticed that for our first patterns of 2021 we increased our size ranges, UK 8-30. We have now introduced a more inclusive size range, we really wanted to be as inclusive as we possible as we know how important and empowering it can be to make and wear your own clothes, whatever shape or size you are.

Our two size ranges are Misses and Curvy:

Misses is drafted to a C cup size and starts at a UK 6 going up to a UK 18
Curvy is drafted to a DD cup size and starts at a UK 20 going up to a UK 34

Our most recent pattern, The Lavinia Dress, is the first pattern to be released featuring the new size range.

We are currently in progress to re-release a number of past patterns in this new sizing.

Misses Sizes UK 6-18

Our 6-18 size range is based on a B cup bust with an average height of 5′-6″. Please note that B cup does not refer to bra sizing, but rather the difference in inches between high and full bust. A 2″ difference between those measurements is equivalent to a B cup (a difference of 1″= A cup, 2″  = B cup, 3″ = C cup etc.) If the difference between your high bust and full bust is higher than 2″, you may need to make a full bust adjustment for particular patterns. Although do check the finished garments measurements as we do include plenty of ease in our designs

Curvy Sizes UK 20-34

Our 20-34 size range is based on a D cup bust and more curvy body shape, with an average height of 5′-6″. Please note that D cup does not refer to bra sizing, but rather the difference in inches between high and full bust; a 4″ difference between those measurements is equivalent to a D cup (a difference of 1″= A cup, 2″  = B cup, 3″ = C cup etc.). If the difference between your high bust and full bust is greater than 4″, you may need to make a full bust adjustment for select patterns. If the difference is smaller, you may need to make a small bust adjustment. However do check the finished garment measurements as we do include plenty of ease in our designs.

If you’ve made our patterns before, you may find you are a different size in the extended range, so it is really important you choose a size based on your actual measurements rather than what you may have chosen in the past.

(*** Please note that our 2021 size range previously went up to size 30. We added an additional two sizes to this range in August 2021. We will be updating our existing patterns to include the new sizes. Customers will be notified when the patterns are updated.)

How to choose the right size range for you

Firstly take your own body measurements as accurately as you can. Find the measurements nearest your own, you will probably be different sizes on your bust waist and hips. Just circle the measurements closest to your own.

Decide which pattern size you will follow – go with the bust size for tops and hip size for bottoms.

Double check the finished garments measurements that relate to the pattern size you have chosen to follow.

You can then see the amount of ease – the difference between the body measurements and the finish garment measurements, so you can make a decision on whether you want that much ease in your finished garment. If you don’t want to much just go down a size.

How to take measurements

Use a new tape measure for one you know hasn’t stretched slightly over time. Measure around your body so the tape remains horizontal to the floor.

Measure around the fullest part of your bust, usually at the nipple line.

Measure around your natural waistline. this is higher than you might think and sits between your bottom rib and your hip bone.

For your hips, measure around the fullest part of your bottom, this will be roughly 20cm below your natural waist.

I hope the changes we have made will enable more people to make up and enjoy our patterns.

Happy Sewing!

Jules x

Comments

Start the conversation

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

%d