Choosing garment fit

Once you’ve recorded your basic measurements you need to establish the amount of ‘ease’ you want your finished garment to have. ‘Ease’ is the difference between your size and the garment. Most garments have ‘positive ease’ – they’re bigger than you. Garments with ‘negative ease’ are smaller than you are, and will fit snugly. Hats and cuffs usually have negative ease – they stretch to fit.

1 VERY CLOSE FIT

Use your actual measurements or take 2.5-5cm (1-2in) away from them (this garment will have negative ease).

2 CLOSE FIT

Add 2.5-5cm (1-2in) to your measurements for a snug, but not too tight, fit (this garment and those that follow have positive ease).

3 STANDARD FIT

Add 5-10cm (2-4in) to your measurements for results that are still quite ‘fitted’ but leave some room for a thin T-shirt underneath.

4 LOOSE FIT

Add 10-15cm (4-6in) for a comfy, almost baggy finish.

5 OVERSIZED

Add 15cm (6in) or more for some really roomy and casual results.