Garment Sizing

The following text is a copy of the US National Knitting and Crochet Standard Measurements Chart

The measurements contained in this chart are ACTUAL BODY MEASUREMENTS. You will have to add ease.

Content:
A simplified instruction system for hand-knitters and crocheters developed by joint committees representing the industry and trade and consumer publications.

Body Measurements for the Development of Patterns These are minimum BODY measurements to be used as guidelines for sizing knit and crochet garments. They are not meant, in all cases, to be used as is. EASE FOR FIT AND
DESIGN CHARACTERISTICS MUST BE ADDED. They are based on the voluntary standards of the National Bureau of Standards and are “average”. It is still advisable to include in instructions :or to length desired” to allow for individual fit.

Sizing – Measurements

The Measurements Standards Committee has established to sets of sizing guidelines. One is for use when giving the size of a garment in instructions. The other is more comprehensive and is for use in the development of individual
sizes for specific garments.

All sizes are given in bust/chest measurements. The ;measurements for boys and girls have been combined into one overall children’s size. Baby sizes are given with the addition of weight.

All sizes are based on the voluntary standards as set forth by the National Bureau of Standards, U.S. Department of Commerce, and relate to those measurements used by all major pattern companies.

It is further recommended that:
All instructions be given for specific sizes. Indefinite terminology, especially small, medium and large is not to be used alone. If the term “small” is used, a specific size must also be given, e.g., Small-size 6 Group sizing may be used but measurements should be given for the largest size in the group. e.g., Size 6-8 will have measurements for size 8.
Instructions are to be given for a finished bust size. If at all possible the publication or instruction book should have a body measurement chart. Thus, a particular instruction would say “Finished bust size 40″ for a size 12. The body chart would state that a size 12 is a 34″ bust, thus allowing the consumer to know that that specific design and size has 6” ease.

Wherever possible, with each instruction or set of instructions, include the phrase, “TO SAVE TIME, TAKE TIME TO CHECK GAUGE” in upper case or bold-faced