About Sizing

No two bodies are the exact same size. Take a sampling of people who wear a similar RTW size and you’ll find a wide array of heights, postures, body shapes, cup sizes, and proportions. For this reason, it’s very hard to make a pattern that will fit everyone out of the envelope.

Blueprints patterns features unique sizing with slightly different proportions than standard industry sizes. (If you are interested in reading about how our current day size ‘standards’ were developed, this article is fascinating (read pt 1-3).)

As compared to patterns based on the ASTM standards, Blueprints patterns feature a larger waist and hips that are slightly larger than full chest. Patterns are drafted for an average figure height of 5’5”, though keep in mind that length proportions (torso length, leg & arm length, crotch depth) will vary from person to person, regardless of height.

Size Chart - Inches

Size Chart - Centimeters

All upper body patterns include 2 size options for upper to full chest proportions. Option 1 is designed for people with a 0-2.5” difference between upper chest and full chest. Option 2 is designed for people with a 2.5-4.5” difference between upper and full chest. Option 2 is great for people with more breast tissue in proportion to their shoulders/waist and can help reduce pulling across the chest and bunching/gaping around the armhole.

Please note: Paper patterns printed before 2019 are only available in our limited size range. As patterns are reprinted, they will be updated to include additional sizes. All PDF patterns have been updated to our new size range.

What if my measurements don’t match the chart?

If you find that your measurements place you in multiple size columns on the chart, don’t fret! All of our patterns feature instructions for altering to better suit your shape! If you’re different sizes at chest, waist, and/or hip, you can make an easy proportion adjustment. If you are taller or shorter, all patterns also include instructions for lengthening and shortening adjustments. Some patterns even include additional tips and suggestions to help you get a better, more customized fit.

Pattern Grading Service

For sizes above a 60” chest, 52” waist, and/or 61” Hip

Some folks may still find our size range too small. In this case, I will gladly grade up any Blueprints pattern for you at no additional charge. If you’d like to request this service, please get in touch !

(Please note: This is not a customization service. Patterns are graded using standard increases, which means the ratios between chest-waist-hip stay the same. However, if your measurements put you in multiple size columns, I will provide all necessary sizes for you to modify the pattern to your proportions. All Blueprints patterns come with instructions on how to do this.)