Determining the precise measurement of an armhole is paramount in garment construction to ensure a comfortable and well-fitting garment. This critical dimension dictates the ease and range of motion around the shoulders and armholes, significantly influencing the overall wearability and aesthetics of the garment. Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or embarking on your first sewing project, understanding how to accurately measure an armhole is essential. This guide will provide a step-by-step approach to ensure you have the correct measurements, leading to a garment that fits like a dream.
To begin, lay the garment flat on a smooth surface, aligning the shoulder seams. Use a flexible measuring tape and place the starting point at the highest point of the shoulder seam, where it meets the neckline. Gently drape the tape over the armhole’s curve, following the seam line that attaches the sleeve to the body. Continue around the armhole, taking note of the widest point. This is typically located at the underarm area. Record the measurement at this widest point, ensuring that the tape is not too loose or too tight. Remember to measure both armholes, as they may vary slightly in size.
Once you have obtained the measurement, it’s essential to compare it to the intended garment’s pattern. This will help you determine if any adjustments are necessary to achieve the desired fit. If the measurement is smaller than the pattern, you may need to enlarge the armhole slightly to ensure sufficient movement. Conversely, if the measurement is larger, you can reduce the armhole’s size to create a more fitted look. By following these steps, you can confidently measure an armhole, ensuring a garment that fits impeccably and enhances your personal style.
Defining the Arm Hole
The arm hole is the opening in the side of a garment that allows for the wearer to insert their arms. It is an essential component of any garment, and its size and shape can greatly affect the fit and comfort of the garment.
The arm hole is made up of two parts: the bodice hole and the sleeve hole. The bodice hole is the opening in the bodice of the garment, while the sleeve hole is the opening in the sleeve.
The size of the arm hole is determined by the circumference of the wearer’s upper arm. The shape of the arm hole can vary depending on the style of the garment. Some garments have a round arm hole, while others have a more square or oval arm hole.
The arm hole is an important consideration when sewing a garment. The size and shape of the arm hole can affect the fit and comfort of the garment, so it is important to ensure that the arm hole is the correct size and shape for the wearer.
Here are some tips for measuring the arm hole:
1. Measure the circumference of the wearer’s upper arm at the point where the arm meets the shoulder.
2. Add 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) to the circumference to allow for ease of movement.
3. Divide the total by 4 to get the radius of the arm hole.
4. Draw a circle with the radius on the bodice of the garment.
5. Cut out the circle to create the bodice hole.
6. Measure the circumference of the sleeve at the point where the sleeve will meet the bodice.
7. Add 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) to the circumference to allow for ease of movement.
8. Divide the total by 4 to get the radius of the sleeve hole.
9. Draw a circle with the radius on the sleeve of the garment.
10. Cut out the circle to create the sleeve hole.
Gathering Essential Tools
To accurately measure the armhole, gather the following essential tools:
Measuring Tape:
Use a flexible measuring tape with both metric and imperial units. Choose one that is long enough to measure around the armhole opening.
Straight Ruler or Yardstick:
This is necessary for measuring the width of the armhole opening. Ensure it is at least as long as the armhole width.
Tailor’s Pencil or Fabric Marker:
Use a marking tool to indicate the measurement points on the fabric or pattern.
Measuring Block or T-Square:
These tools help ensure accurate right angles and straight lines when drawing the armhole curve.
Drafting Paper or Pattern:
For marking the measured dimensions of the armhole.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Measuring Tape | Measures the armhole opening |
| Straight Ruler or Yardstick | Measures the armhole width |
| Tailor’s Pencil or Fabric Marker | Marks measurement points |
| Measuring Block or T-Square | Ensures accurate angles and lines |
| Drafting Paper or Pattern | Marks the measured dimensions |
Preparing the Garment
1. Lay the Garment Flat
Spread the garment out on a flat surface, such as a table or ironing board. Smooth out any wrinkles or folds to ensure accurate measurements.
2. Identify the Armhole Seam
Locate the seam that connects the sleeve to the bodice of the garment. This is the armhole seam.
3. Measure the Armhole Girth
a. Using a Tape Measure
Place the end of a flexible tape measure at the center of the front armhole seam. Run the tape measure along the seam, making sure to keep it parallel to the edge of the garment. Note the measurement when the tape measure reaches the center of the back armhole seam.
b. Using a String or Cord
Cut a piece of string or cord long enough to wrap around the armhole. Place the string at the center of the front armhole seam, then wrap it around the armhole, following the seam. Tie the ends of the string together and measure the length of the tied string to get the armhole girth.
c. For Raglan Sleeves
Measuring the armhole girth of a raglan sleeve can be a bit tricky since the seam extends beyond the shoulder seam. To get an accurate measurement, measure from the top of the shoulder seam, along the raglan seam, to the bottom of the sleeve. Double this measurement to get the armhole girth.
Measuring the Armhole Depth
Determining the armhole depth is crucial for achieving a well-fitting garment. Follow these steps for accurate measurement:
1. Find the Center Front and Back
Mark the midpoints of both the front and back of the bodice. These points will define the center front and center back.
2. Measure from Center Front to Shoulder
Measure vertically from the center front point to the highest point of the shoulder seam. This gives you the front armhole depth.
3. Measure from Center Back to Shoulder
Repeat the measurement from the center back point to the highest point of the shoulder seam. This gives you the back armhole depth.
4. Calculating the Complete Armhole Depth
To calculate the complete armhole depth, consider the following:
If the garment has a round neck, the complete armhole depth is the same as the back armhole depth.
If the garment has a V-neck or a scoop neck, the complete armhole depth is greater than the back armhole depth. To calculate it:
- Measure the width of the neckline at the widest point (W).
- Subtract the width of the neckline at the shoulder seam (S) from W.
- Divide the result by 2 (D = (W – S) / 2).
- Add the depth of the V-neck or scoop neck (V) to D.
- Add D + V to the back armhole depth to get the complete armhole depth.
| Neckline Type | Complete Armhole Depth |
| Round Neck | Back Armhole Depth |
| V-Neck | Back Armhole Depth + D + V |
| Scoop Neck | Back Armhole Depth + D + V |
Determining the Armhole Length
The armhole length is the measurement from the shoulder point to the bottom of the armhole. This measurement determines the height of the armhole and how low it will sit on the body.
To determine the armhole length:
- Measure from the shoulder point to the bottom of the armhole.
- Add 1 inch (2.5 cm) for ease of movement.
- If you plan to wear the garment with a blouse or sweater underneath, add an additional inch for each layer.
- For a sleeveless garment, you can reduce the armhole length by 1 inch.
- To create a deeper armhole:
| Armhole Depth | Adjustment to Armhole Length |
|---|---|
| Slightly deeper | Add 1/4 inch |
| Moderately deeper | Add 1/2 inch |
| Significantly deeper | Add 3/4 inch or more |
Measuring the Armhole Circumference
Here’s how to measure the armhole circumference:
- Support the armhole by holding it with your thumb and forefinger.
- Place the end of the measuring tape at the center of the front neckline shoulder seam.
- Bring the measuring tape around the armhole, following the edge of the fabric.
- Keep the measuring tape parallel to the floor.
- Stop the measuring tape at the center of the front neckline shoulder seam, where you started.
- Take the measurement in inches or centimeters to the nearest 0.25 inch or 0.5 centimeter. **Here’s a table summarizing the measuring tip**:
Measurement Tip Explanation Support the armhole with your thumb and forefinger This helps to keep the fabric flat and prevents it from stretching Place the end of the measuring tape at the center of the front neckline shoulder seam This ensures that you are measuring the armhole circumference from the shoulder seam to the shoulder seam Bring the measuring tape around the armhole, following the edge of the fabric This ensures that you are measuring the armhole circumference accurately Keep the measuring tape parallel to the floor This ensures that you are measuring the armhole circumference in a consistent and accurate way Stop the measuring tape at the center of the front neckline shoulder seam, where you started This ensures that you have measured the armhole circumference completely
Considering the Garment Style
The arm hole size and shape can vary significantly depending on the style of the garment. Here are some common garment styles and their corresponding arm hole considerations:
Sleeveless Tops
Sleeveless tops have no sleeves, so the arm holes are typically cut larger to accommodate movement.
Short Sleeves
Short sleeves cover part of the arm, so the arm holes are usually smaller than those on sleeveless tops. The shape of the arm hole can vary, from a more rounded shape on puff sleeves to a more angled shape on cap sleeves.
Long Sleeves
Long sleeves cover the entire arm, so the arm holes are typically the smallest of all. The shape of the arm hole will depend on the style of the sleeve, such as raglan sleeves, set-in sleeves, or dolman sleeves.
Bodysuits
Bodysuits typically have a smaller arm hole than tops as they are designed to fit more closely to the body.
Dresses
The arm hole size and shape on dresses can vary greatly depending on the style of the dress.
Swimsuits
Swimsuits often have large arm holes to allow for freedom of movement and to prevent the fabric from rubbing against the skin.
Activewear
Activewear, such as sports bras and workout tops, often have larger arm holes to allow for a greater range of motion.
Ensuring a Comfortable Fit
9. Measuring Armhole Depth
To accurately measure armhole depth, follow these steps:
- Raise your arm to a 90-degree angle from your body, keeping your elbow bent.
- Place the tape measure under the armpit, along the natural curve of your shoulder.
- Extend the tape measure along the inside of your armhole, following the curve of your chest.
- Continue measuring until the tape reaches the bottom of the armhole, where it meets the waistline.
- Record the measurement to the closest half-inch.
| Size | Armhole Depth (inches) |
|---|---|
| Small | 5-6 |
| Medium | 6-7 |
| Large | 7-8 |
| X-Large | 8-9 |
Tip: It’s important to hold the tape measure snugly, but not too tightly, to ensure an accurate measurement.
Tips for Accurate Measuring
1. Measure while standing with arms straight down at sides. This will ensure that your armhole measurement is accurate for a garment that is worn in a relaxed position.
2. Measure around the widest part of your upper arm. This is typically just below the shoulder joint.
3. Keep the tape measure comfortably loose. You should be able to fit two fingers between the tape measure and your skin.
4. Read the measurement to the nearest inch or half-inch. Most commercial patterns are designed with 1-inch or half-inch seam allowances, so this will give you the most accurate fit.
5. Take multiple measurements to ensure accuracy. This is especially important if you are measuring a curved or irregular armhole.
6. Use a measuring buddy to help you. This can be especially helpful if you are measuring a difficult-to-reach area.
7. Measure both armholes. Even if you are only making one garment, it is important to measure both armholes to ensure that they are the same size.
8. Compare your measurements to the pattern. Most patterns will include a chart of armhole measurements for different sizes. Comparing your measurements to the chart can help you choose the correct size pattern.
9. Use your measurements to adjust the pattern. If your measurements are different from the pattern, you can adjust the pattern to create a more custom fit.
10. Consider the following factors when choosing a seam allowance for your armhole:
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Fabric type | Lightweight fabrics require a smaller seam allowance than heavier fabrics. |
| Stretch | Stretchy fabrics require a smaller seam allowance than non-stretchy fabrics. |
| Pattern style | Fitted patterns require a smaller seam allowance than looser patterns. |
| Personal preference | Ultimately, the seam allowance you choose will depend on your personal preferences. |
How To Measure Arm Hole
To measure your arm hole, you will need a flexible measuring tape. Start by placing the tape at the top of your shoulder, where the seam of your shirt would be. Bring the tape down under your armpit and up the other side of your shoulder, to the starting point. This measurement is your arm hole circumference.
To ensure an accurate measurement, be sure to keep the tape taut but not too tight. You should also stand up straight and relax your arms at your sides.
People Also Ask About How To Measure Arm Hole
How do I measure my arm hole depth?
To measure your arm hole depth, start by placing the tape at the top of your shoulder, where the seam of your shirt would be. Bring the tape down under your armpit and stop at the bottom of the arm hole. This measurement is your arm hole depth.
What is a standard arm hole size?
The standard arm hole size varies depending on the garment and the person’s body type. However, a general rule of thumb is that the arm hole circumference should be about 2 inches larger than your actual arm circumference.
How do I adjust the arm hole of a shirt?
If the arm hole of a shirt is too small, you can adjust it by taking in the side seams. If the arm hole is too large, you can adjust it by letting out the side seams.
