Choosing the right size is arguably the most important decision before cutting fabric. You can sew wonderfully, but if you choose the wrong size, the garment won't fit. And here comes the most common mistake of all: choosing the size you wear in stores. Spoiler: it's almost never the same.
In this article, we explain how to choose your size in a sewing pattern step by step. And since at BERA Patterns we work with a measurement chart for almost all our patterns, we'll tell you how to use it to get your size right the first time.
Why your store size doesn't work here
Commercial sizes (that 38, M, or 42 you're used to) don't follow a single criterion: they vary from brand to brand and from country to country. That's why in sewing, we don't choose the size by number, but by measurements in centimeters (or inches).
Step 1: Take your measurements
It all starts here. You need, at a minimum, your three basic measurements: bust circumference, waist circumference, and hip circumference. Take them with a flexible tape measure, with fitted clothing, and without pulling tight.
If you're not sure how to do it correctly, we explain it step by step in our guide on how to take your measurements. Dedicate five minutes to it: it's the foundation of everything else.
Step 2: Compare your measurements with the pattern chart
With your measurements in hand, go to the pattern's measurement chart and find the size whose figures most closely match yours. Always look at the centimeters (or inches), never the size number or letter.
It's normal not to fit into a single size
This is key and almost no one talks about it: many people fall into different sizes depending on the measurement. For example, one size for the bust and another for the hips. It's not a problem with you, it's normal: every body is unique.
Patterns are designed precisely for this. You can combine sizes, connecting the size of one area to another (for example, from the bust to the hip) with a smooth line. It's one of the great advantages of sewing your own clothes.
Step 3: Consider ease
A common misunderstanding: your measurements are not the measurements of the finished garment. Almost all clothing has some ease (a few extra inches) so you can move comfortably.
That ease is already calculated within the pattern, so you just need to provide your actual measurements. If you want to better understand how all that is calculated, we explain it in our article on what pattern making is.
Our measurement chart
And now, our approach. In almost all BERA Patterns, you'll find a Latin American measurement chart, with its figures in both centimeters and inches.
Using a single chart also makes things easier: you don't have to choose between two systems, just compare your measurements with one chart and pick the closest size.
How to choose your correct size in a BERA pattern
The process is very simple:
- Take your bust, waist, and hip measurements (Step 1).
- Compare your measurements with the Latin American chart.
- Choose the size that most closely matches your measurements.
- Use cm or inches, whichever you find more comfortable: both columns say the same thing, only the unit changes.
- Combine sizes if needed, just like with any pattern, to adjust bust, waist, or hips separately.
Our advice: always stick with the size where your measurements fall most naturally, without forcing it. That's the one that will give you the best fit.
Frequently asked questions
Do I choose the size by number or by measurements? Always by measurements in centimeters or inches.
Which measurement chart do BERA patterns use? A single chart, the Latin American one, with figures in centimeters and inches.
Which chart should I use? The one included in each pattern: the Latin American one. Compare your bust, waist and hip measurements with it and pick the size whose figures are closest.
My measurements fall into two different sizes, what do I do? This is totally normal. You can combine sizes within the same chart, connecting the size of one area (e.g., the bust) with another (the hip) with a smooth line.
Do I use centimeters or inches? Whichever you prefer. Each chart includes both units, and both indicate exactly the same measurement.
Get your size right from the first pattern
Choosing the right size is what turns a homemade garment into a more professional garment. Take your measurements, compare them with the pattern's chart, and don't be afraid to combine sizes: that's what custom sewing is for.
At BERA Patterns, we make it easy with a measurement chart (in cm and inches) for almost all our digital patterns, plus clear instructions and video tutorials. This way, you choose your size with confidence and sew with the peace of mind that it will fit you perfectly. Discover our pattern collection and start your next project on the right foot.
