Ordering handmade clothing is exciting because you are getting something created with care, time, and attention to detail. Unlike mass-produced clothing, handmade pieces often have more personality, better craftsmanship, and a more personal feel. However, choosing the right size can feel a little tricky, especially when every shop, pattern, and maker may use slightly different measurements.
The good news is that finding the right size does not have to be complicated. With a few simple steps, you can feel more confident before placing your order and avoid the disappointment of receiving something that does not fit the way you expected.
Why Handmade Clothing Sizing Is Different
When you shop at a large retail store, you may already know that you wear a medium, large, size 10, or size 14 in that brand. But even in regular stores, sizes can vary widely from one company to another.
Handmade clothing is often based on actual body measurements rather than standard store sizing. That means the maker may use a specific size chart, sewing pattern, or custom measurement guide. A size medium in one handmade shop may not fit exactly like a medium from another shop.
This is why measurements matter so much.
Instead of ordering based only on the size you usually wear, it is best to compare your body measurements to the shop’s size chart before making your final choice.
Start With the Size Chart
Before ordering handmade clothing, always look for the shop’s size chart. A good size chart will usually include measurements such as:
- Bust or chest
- Waist
- Hips
- Length
- Inseam, if ordering pants or shorts
- Shoulder width, if ordering tops, jackets, or dresses
Do not assume your regular store size will automatically match the handmade size. For example, you may normally wear a large in store-bought clothing, but the handmade size chart may place you in an extra large based on your measurements.
That does not mean anything is wrong with your body. It simply means the sizing system is different.
Take Accurate Measurements
The most important step in choosing the right size is taking accurate body measurements. Use a soft measuring tape, the kind used for sewing. A metal tape measure from a toolbox will not give the same accurate results.
When measuring, stand naturally and avoid pulling the tape too tightly. The tape should be snug but not digging into your skin.
For best results, measure over lightweight clothing or undergarments. Bulky clothing can add extra inches and make the finished garment too large.
How to Measure Your Bust or Chest
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust or chest. Keep the tape level across your back and avoid pulling it too tight.
How to Measure Your Waist
Measure around the narrowest part of your natural waist. This is usually above your belly button and below your ribs. Do not suck in your stomach while measuring. You want the garment to fit your real body comfortably.
How to Measure Your Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat. This is especially important for skirts, pants, dresses, and longer tops.
How to Measure Length
For tops, measure from the top of your shoulder down to where you want the shirt or tunic to end.
For dresses, measure from the shoulder down to your preferred dress length.
For pants, measure your inseam from the inside of your leg down to the desired hemline.
Compare Your Measurements, Not Your Usual Size
Once you have your measurements, compare them to the handmade shop’s size chart.
For example, the chart may look something like this:
| Size | Bust | Waist | Hips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 34–35 in. | 27–28 in. | 36–37 in. |
| Medium | 36–37 in. | 29–30 in. | 38–39 in. |
| Large | 38–40 in. | 31–33 in. | 40–42 in. |
| XL | 41–43 in. | 34–36 in. | 43–45 in. |
If your bust, waist, and hip measurements fall into different sizes, choose the size based on the most important measurement for that garment.
For tops, the bust or chest measurement is usually most important.
For pants and skirts, the waist and hips matter most.
For dresses, you may need to consider bust, waist, and hips together.
Pay Attention to the Style of the Garment
The right size also depends on the style and fit of the clothing.
Some handmade clothing is designed to fit closely to the body, while other pieces are meant to have a relaxed, oversized, or flowy fit.
Before ordering, read the product description carefully. Look for words like:
- Fitted
- Relaxed fit
- Oversized
- Loose fit
- Slim fit
- Stretchy
- Non-stretch
- Flowy
- True to size
A relaxed-fit top may have extra room built into the design, while a fitted dress may need more precise measurements.
Understand Ease
Ease is the extra space added to a garment so you can move comfortably. Clothing should not usually be made to your exact body measurements unless it is designed to stretch or fit very closely.
For example, if your bust measures 38 inches, a non-stretch top with a finished bust measurement of exactly 38 inches may feel too tight. You may need a garment with a little extra room so you can move, sit, reach, and breathe comfortably.
There are two common types of ease:
Wearing ease is the extra room needed for comfort and movement.
Design ease is extra room added for style, such as an oversized sweatshirt or flowy dress.
This is why finished garment measurements can be just as helpful as body measurements.
Look for Finished Garment Measurements
Some handmade sellers provide finished garment measurements in addition to body measurements. These tell you the actual size of the clothing item after it is sewn.
Finished garment measurements may include:
- Chest width
- Garment length
- Sleeve length
- Waist width
- Hip width
- Inseam
These measurements are especially helpful if you want to compare the handmade item to a piece of clothing you already own and love.
One easy trick is to lay a favorite shirt, dress, or pair of pants flat and measure it. Then compare those measurements to the handmade item’s finished measurements.
This can help you choose a size that matches the fit you already know you like.
Consider the Fabric
Fabric can make a big difference in how clothing fits.
Stretchy fabrics, such as knit cotton, jersey, French terry, or spandex blends, usually have more flexibility. They can fit closer to the body while still feeling comfortable.
Woven fabrics, such as quilting cotton, linen, denim, or flannel, usually have less stretch. These garments often need more room for movement.
Before ordering, check the product description to see whether the fabric has stretch. If the fabric does not stretch and you are between sizes, sizing up is often the safer choice.
What to Do If You Are Between Sizes
Being between sizes is very common. If your measurements fall between two sizes, consider the style, fabric, and how you prefer your clothing to fit.
Choose the smaller size if:
- The fabric has stretch
- You prefer a closer fit
- The garment is already designed to be loose or oversized
Choose the larger size if:
- The fabric does not stretch
- You prefer a relaxed fit
- The garment is fitted through the waist, hips, or chest
- You want extra room for layering
When in doubt, it is usually better for clothing to be slightly roomy than too tight, especially with handmade items that may not be returnable due to sizing.
Read the Shop Policies Before Ordering
Because handmade clothing is often made to order, many sellers have specific return and exchange policies. Some shops may accept exchanges for standard sizes, while others may not accept returns on custom or personalized items.
Before placing your order, check the shop’s policies for:
- Returns
- Exchanges
- Custom sizing
- Alterations
- Processing time
- Shipping time
Understanding the policies before ordering helps prevent frustration later.
Ask Questions Before You Buy
One of the benefits of buying handmade is that you are often purchasing directly from the maker. If you are unsure about sizing, send a message before ordering.
You can ask questions such as:
- “I am between these two sizes. Which one do you recommend?”
- “Does this fabric have stretch?”
- “Is this designed to fit loosely or closely?”
- “Can you tell me the finished garment measurements?”
- “Would this style work better if I size up?”
Most handmade sellers want you to be happy with your purchase and would rather answer questions before the item is made.
Double-Check Custom Measurements
If you are ordering custom handmade clothing, double-check every measurement before sending it to the seller. It is easy to accidentally write down the wrong number.
Measure twice and write each number clearly.
You may also want to have someone help you measure, especially for areas like shoulder width, sleeve length, and dress length. Accurate measurements make a big difference in the final fit.
Remember That Handmade Clothing Is Made With Care
Handmade clothing is not rushed through a factory line. It is often cut, sewn, pressed, packaged, and shipped by one person or a small business. Taking a few extra minutes to choose the right size helps the maker create something you will actually enjoy wearing.
When you order carefully, you are more likely to receive a handmade piece that feels comfortable, looks good, and becomes something you reach for again and again.
Final Tips for Choosing the Right Handmade Clothing Size
Before placing your order, remember to:
- Check the size chart
- Take your body measurements
- Compare measurements instead of relying on your usual store size
- Read the product description carefully
- Consider the fabric and fit
- Look for finished garment measurements
- Size up when needed for non-stretch fabrics
- Ask the seller questions before ordering
Choosing the right size when ordering handmade clothing may take a little more attention, but it is worth it. A well-fitting handmade garment is more than just clothing. It is something created with skill, care, and intention just for you.
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