Today's post is all about how to cut using measurements. Well, this one's a general top instruction so you can try using it with any pattern (with some adjustments of course!). 

STEP 1: Measurements

 So first of all, we need measurements of the following:

• Across shoulder
• Bust / Chest
• Waist
• Hip 
• Length of top

If you don’t know how to take the measurements, then click on this link.

STEP 2: Folding

Fabric should be folded carefully. You need to note the following things:

To cut front bodice and the back bodice, you need to fold the fabric into four layers. Two layers will only give you front bodice. So for front and back bodices, you need to fold it twice to get four layers. The following figure will help you.

• The fabric should be properly aligned end to end and corners to corners.
• Be sure to note the selvedge and raw edge of the fabric.

• The fabric should be laid out smoothly. If you want you can iron the fabric to remove the creases.

STEP 3: Marking 

All the markings are done in the fourth fabric folded form (that's a lot of words starting with 'f').

Now follow the markings accordingly and you'll end up with an outline. The pictures will tell you the measurements and markings. So just follow them.

Now draw a one inch extra on your outline for seam allowance. Cut the fabric through this new outline. There you have it. The cut fabric with your own measurements is at your service. Now all you need to do is stitch these pieces. Happy sewing!!

If you feel like I've missed anything, please do leave them in the comments. Please follow me if you like my blog and enjoy The Sew Show.

cutting fabric folding raw edge selvedge sewing sewing measurements take measurements top

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Measuring is the first step to sewing. It must be done accurately otherwise your dress would turn out to be Zombie size and we definitely don't want that.

First things first, make sure you have a friend to help you take the measurements.
Secondly, a measuring tape has both inches and centimetres (one on each side). While using your measuring tape, be sure to take your measurements using the 'inches' (") rather than the centimetres (cm) as it will be more easy to mark on your cloth.
Finally, while measuring do breathe! Don't stiffen up your body and don't tighten the tape. Take relaxed measurements.

BASIC MEASUREMENTS:

Across Shoulder: From one shoulder point (the point of dimple at shoulder bone when arms are raised to shoulder level) to the other.
Bust: Measure all around the body over the bust.
Waist: Measure the narrowest part of your waist.
Hips: Measure the widest part; just below the waist.

ADVANCED MEASUREMENTS:

Waist height from floor: Measure from waist to the legs touching the floor.
Shoulder length: From neck base (the area where you circle measure the neck) to shoulder point.
Front waist length: Measure from the neck base over bust and vertically down to waist.

If you feel like I've missed anything, please do leave them in the comments. Please follow me if you like my blog and enjoy The Sew Show.

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