Custom sizing
A tape measure, ten minutes, and a piece that actually fits
Standard sizes are an average of many bodies. Yours is not average. Here is how to take the measurements we ask for — and what we do with them.
Wear something close-fitting
Measure over a thin t-shirt, not a jumper. Bulky layers add centimetres that were never yours.
Keep the tape snug, not tight
It should sit against you without pressing in. If you can slide two fingers under it comfortably, it is about right.
Ask someone to help
Back and shoulder measurements are almost impossible to take alone. Two people get it right in half the time.
Do not round the numbers
Give us 88.5 if that is what the tape says. We would rather adjust from something accurate.
The measurements
What each one means
| Measurement | How to take it | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Standing, without shoes | cm |
| Chest / Bust | Around the fullest part | cm |
| Waist | At the natural waistline | cm |
| Hips | Around the fullest part | cm |
| Shoulder width | Seam to seam across the back | cm |
| Sleeve length | Shoulder to wrist | cm |
| Neck | Around the base of the neck | cm |
| Armhole | Around the top of the arm | cm |
| Inseam | Crotch to ankle | cm |
| Outseam | Waist to ankle | cm |
| Thigh | Around the fullest part | cm |
| Garment length | Desired finished length | cm |
What happens next
Your numbers become a paper pattern
We check them against each other
Measurements have relationships — a chest and a shoulder that disagree usually means one of them was taken over a jumper. We look for that before anything is cut.
We adjust the base pattern
Rather than scaling a standard size up or down, we redraw the pieces that need to change. Shoulders and armholes get the most attention.
We cut, sew and check the fit
One garment at a time, by the same person from start to finish. If something looks off against your numbers, we call you before finishing it.
Questions
Things people ask us
What does a custom fit cost?
Each piece lists its own custom-fit charge on its page — it covers the extra pattern work and the longer cutting time. Some pieces, like shawls, do not need it at all.
How much longer does it take?
Usually about a week on top of the normal making time, which is shown on every product page. We will confirm a date when we call you.
What if I measure something wrong?
It happens often, and it is why we always call. If a number looks unusual next to the others we will ask you to check it before we cut anything.
Do I need to fill in every measurement?
No. Give us what you can and we will ask about the rest on the phone. Even two or three good measurements are a better starting point than a standard size.
Can you work from a garment I already own?
Yes, and it is often the easiest route. Measure a piece that fits you well, flat on a table, and mention in your note that the numbers are from a garment rather than your body.
Ready when you are
Pick a piece, choose “my measurements”, and fill in what you know. We will sort out the rest on the phone.