4 Steps on How to Measure Arm Hole

When constructing a garment, one of the crucial measurements to ensure a perfect fit is the armhole. The armhole is the opening in the garment through which the arm passes. Measuring the armhole accurately is essential for creating a garment that provides both comfort and freedom of movement. In this article, we will delve into the techniques and provide step-by-step instructions on how to measure the armhole precisely.

To begin measuring the armhole, it is important to have the correct tools. A flexible measuring tape, a pencil, and a piece of paper are all that is required. Position yourself in front of a mirror, as this will allow you to see and measure the armhole more accurately. Raise your arm to the side, with your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle. Place the measuring tape at the point where the shoulder seam meets the armhole. Extend the measuring tape around the armhole, following the curve of the opening and ensuring that it remains parallel to the floor. When the measuring tape meets the starting point, note the measurement. This measurement represents the armhole circumference.

In addition to the armhole circumference, it is also helpful to measure the armhole depth. The armhole depth is measured from the shoulder seam to the underarm seam. To measure the armhole depth, place the measuring tape at the shoulder seam, where it meets the neckline. Extend the measuring tape downward along the seam, following the curve of the armhole until it reaches the underarm seam. Note the measurement, which represents the armhole depth. By accurately measuring both the armhole circumference and depth, you can create a garment that fits your body perfectly, providing both comfort and style.

Measuring Arm Hole Depth

Accurate arm hole depth measurement is crucial for garment fit and comfort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to determine the appropriate depth for your garment:

Materials:

• Measuring tape
• Marker or chalk
• Ruler or protractor

Instructions:

1. Shoulder Point to Bicep Measurement:

   • Stand upright with your arms at your sides.
   • Measure from the highest point on your shoulder (shoulder point) to the apex of your bicep (bicep point).
   • Record this measurement as the "shoulder point to bicep measurement".

2. Bicep Circumference Measurement:

   • Place the measuring tape around your upper arm, at the widest point of your bicep.
   • Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight.
   • Record this measurement as the "bicep circumference measurement".

3. Arm Hole Depth Calculation:

   • Add 2 inches (5 cm) to the "shoulder point to bicep measurement". This allowance is for additional fabric and ease of movement.
   • Divide the resulting sum by 2.
   • Add 1 inch (2.5 cm) to the result. This allowance is for the seam and hem.

   Formula	Result
   (Shoulder point to bicep measurement + 2 inches) / 2 + 1 inch	Arm hole depth

Example Calculation:

If your shoulder point to bicep measurement is 9 inches (23 cm) and your bicep circumference measurement is 14 inches (35.5 cm), the arm hole depth would be calculated as:

(9 inches + 2 inches) / 2 + 1 inch = 6.5 inches (16.5 cm)

Determining Arm Hole Width

Measuring the arm hole width is crucial for ensuring a garment fits comfortably and allows for unrestricted movement. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Locate the shoulder point: Identify the point on the shoulder where the sleeve seam meets the neckline.
2. Measure down from the shoulder point: Using a measuring tape, measure down along the side seam of the garment from the shoulder point to a point 2 inches (5 cm) below the armpit.
3. Measure across the armscye: Holding the measuring tape perpendicular to the side seam at the 2-inch (5 cm) point, extend it across the arm hole to the other side seam. The measurement obtained represents the arm hole width.

For reference, here is a table with approximate arm hole width measurements for different UK dress sizes:

Size	Arm Hole Width (in inches)
8	17.5
10	18.5
12	19.5
14	20.5
16	21.5

Finding the Arm Hole Circle

To find the armhole circle, you need to first measure around your armhole. To do this, place the measuring tape around your armhole, just below the shoulder, and pull it snugly. Record this measurement.

Next, you need to measure the length of your armhole. To do this, place the measuring tape at the top of your armhole, at the shoulder seam, and measure down to the bottom of your armhole. Record this measurement.

Now, you can use these measurements to find the armhole circle. To do this, multiply the armhole measurement by the length of the armhole. This will give you the area of the armhole circle.

To find the radius of the armhole circle, you need to take the square root of the area of the armhole circle. This will give you the radius of the armhole circle.

Here is a table summarizing the steps involved in finding the armhole circle:

Step	Measurement
1	Armhole measurement
2	Armhole length
3	Area of the armhole circle
4	Radius of the armhole circle

Using the Sleeve Formula

Measuring the Armhole Curve

To determine the armhole curve length, follow these steps:

1. Align the sleeve along the armhole’s top edge, ensuring the seam lines match.
2. Smooth out the sleeve and mark the point where it meets the bottom edge of the armhole.
3. Use a measuring tape to measure the distance between the shoulder point and the marked point.

Calculating the Armhole Circumference

Once the armhole curve length is obtained, calculate the circumference using the following formula:

Armhole Circumference = Armhole Curve Length / 3.14

Adjusting for Ease

To account for movement and comfort, typically 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of ease is added to the armhole circumference.

Creating the Armhole Pattern

To create the armhole pattern, follow these steps:

Measurement	Calculation	Pattern
Armhole Circumference	As calculated above	Half of the circumference is used for the pattern.
Armhole Depth	Typically 8-10 inches (20-25 cm)	Measure from the highest point of the armhole to the desired depth.
Armhole Curve	As measured previously	Draw a curve with the calculated length along the edge of the pattern.

Adjusting for Arm Circumference

5. Measuring the Arm Circumference

To determine the appropriate arm circumference for a garment, follow these steps:

Measurement Point	Instructions
Upper Arm	Bend your arm at the elbow at a 90-degree angle. Measure around the fullest part of your upper arm, between the shoulder and elbow.
Forearm	Keep your arm bent. Measure around the fullest part of your forearm, between the elbow and wrist. Note that these measurements are for your own arm. When adjusting a garment’s arm hole, the actual circumference of the wearer’s arm should be used. Once the upper arm and forearm circumferences are measured, add 1-2 inches to each to account for arm movement and comfort. These values will be used in the next steps to adjust the arm hole measurement. Considering Body Shape The shape of your body can also affect the way you measure your arm hole. If you have a wider frame, you may need to allow for more room in the arm hole. Conversely, if you have a narrower frame, you may be able to get away with a smaller arm hole. Here is a table that shows the average arm hole measurements for different body shapes: Body Shape Average Arm Hole Measurement Hourglass 18-20 inches Pear 19-21 inches Apple 20-22 inches Rectangle 18-20 inches Inverted Triangle 17-19 inches Of course, these are just averages. The best way to determine the correct arm hole measurement for you is to take your measurements and make a muslin mock-up of the garment. Verifying Arm Hole Size To ensure accurate measurements, follow these additional steps: Check the garment’s label for the recommended armhole size, if available. Use a flexible measuring tape and place it around the armhole opening, starting at the armpit and extending to the end of the shoulder seam. Measure both armholes and compare the measurements. They should be equal or within a small margin of error (e.g., 0.5 inches or less). If the measurements differ significantly, inspect the garment for any inconsistencies or defects. Consider the fabric type and its stretchiness. Stretchy fabrics may allow for some variance in measurements. Try on the garment and move your arms to check for comfort and ease of movement. If the armholes feel too tight or too loose, adjust the measurements accordingly or consult a professional seamster for alterations. Armhole Size Measurement Range Small 16-18 inches Medium 18-20 inches Large 20-22 inches Extra Large 22-24 inches Calibrating Measurement Tools 1. Check the Zero Point: Place the tape measure on a flat surface, and ensure that the zero mark aligns precisely with the edge of the surface. 2. Calibrate with a Ruler: Use a ruler or a measuring stick to calibrate the tape measure. Measure a known distance, such as 10 or 20 cm, and compare it to the reading on the tape measure. 3. Check the Graduations: Inspect the tape measure’s graduations to ensure they are evenly spaced and accurate. If there are any irregularities or missing markings, the tape measure may need to be replaced. 4. Calibrate with a Measuring Wheel: If you have access to a measuring wheel, use it to calibrate your tape measure. Mark a specific distance on the ground and measure it both with the tape measure and the measuring wheel. Compare the readings to identify any discrepancies. 5. Use a Caliper for Curved Surfaces: When measuring curved surfaces, such as armholes, use a caliper. A caliper can accurately measure the distance between two points on a curved surface. 6. Regularly Recalibrate: Even the highest quality measurement tools can become misaligned over time. Regularly recalibrate them to ensure they are providing accurate readings. 7. Use a Magnifying Glass: For precise measurements, use a magnifying glass to enhance the visibility of the graduations on the measurement tool. 8. Specific Considerations for Armhole Measurement: Measurement Point Calibration Method Around the Bicep Use a measuring tape over the bicep, ensuring it’s snug but not too tight. Calibrate by measuring a known distance on the tape, such as 10 cm. Across the Back Lay the tape measure across the shoulder blades, ensuring it’s parallel to the floor. Calibrate by measuring a known distance, such as 30 cm. From the Shoulder to the Sleeve Hem Use a tape measure from the top of the shoulder to the desired sleeve length. Calibrate by measuring a known distance, such as 20 cm. Measuring the Arm Hole Depth To determine the arm hole depth, you will need to measure from the shoulder point to the underarm point. The shoulder point is the intersection of the shoulder seam and the neckline, while the underarm point is the lowest point of the armhole. Use a flexible measuring tape or a dressmaker’s tape to ensure accuracy. Tips for Accurate Arm Hole Measurements For accurate arm hole measurements, follow these tips: 1. Use a flexible measuring tape: A flexible measuring tape can easily contour the body, providing a more accurate measurement. 2. Measure while standing: To prevent the measurement from being affected by slouching, have the person stand up straight with their shoulders relaxed. 3. Use a well-fitting garment: If possible, measure the arm hole of a well-fitting garment to ensure a similar fit for the new garment. 4. Measure the widest part of the armhole: Locate the widest part of the armhole and measure it accordingly. This ensures ample space for movement and comfort. 5. Consider seam allowances: When measuring the arm hole, consider the seam allowances necessary for sewing. Add the desired seam allowance to the measurement for accuracy. 6. Measure on both sides: Take measurements for both armholes to ensure symmetry. Slight variations can be accounted for during garment construction. 7. Use a dress form or mannequin: If available, a dress form or mannequin can provide a more precise measurement as it represents a three-dimensional shape. 8. Double-check measurements: It’s essential to verify the measurements by retaking them to minimize errors and ensure accuracy. 9. Consider body posture and mobility: Take into account the person’s body posture and the intended range of motion for the garment. This helps ensure the arm hole is comfortable and allows for proper movement. Measurement How to Measure Armhole Depth From shoulder point to underarm point Armhole Circumference Around the widest part of the armhole How to Measure Arm Hole To correctly measure the armhole, follow these steps: 1. Raise your arm to a 90-degree angle at the elbow. 2. Using a measuring tape, measure around the circumference of your armhole, starting at the shoulder and ending at the same point. Troubleshooting Common Arm Hole Fitting Issues 1. Armhole is too tight If the armhole is too tight, it can restrict movement and cause discomfort. To fix this, you can: – Enlarge the armhole by cutting away excess fabric. – Use a stretchy fabric that will accommodate your arm’s movement. 2. Armhole is too loose If the armhole is too loose, it can cause the garment to slip or bunch up. To fix this, you can: – Take in the armhole by sewing it closed. – Use boning or other support to stabilize the armhole. 3. Armhole is too high If the armhole is too high, it can expose your underarm and bra straps. To fix this, you can: – Lower the armhole by cutting away excess fabric from the top. – Sew the armhole closed at the top and recreate it at a lower position. 4. Armhole is too low If the armhole is too low, it can create a bulky and unflattering appearance. To fix this, you can: – Raise the armhole by cutting away excess fabric from the bottom. – Sew the armhole closed at the bottom and recreate it at a higher position. 5. Armhole is too wide If the armhole is too wide, it can cause the garment to slip off your shoulder. To fix this, you can: – Narrow the armhole by sewing it closed from the sides. – Add darts or gathers to the armhole to create a more fitted shape. 6. Armhole is too narrow If the armhole is too narrow, it can restrict movement and cause discomfort. To fix this, you can: – Widen the armhole by cutting away excess fabric from the sides. – Use a stretchy fabric that will accommodate your arm’s movement. 7. Armhole is too deep If the armhole is too deep, it can cause the garment to fall too low on your shoulder. To fix this, you can: – Shorten the armhole by cutting away excess fabric from the top. 8. Armhole is too shallow If the armhole is too shallow, it can restrict movement and cause discomfort. To fix this, you can: – Deepen the armhole by cutting away excess fabric from the bottom. 9. Armhole is too pointed If the armhole is too pointed, it can create an unflattering and unnatural shape. To fix this, you can: – Round off the armhole by cutting away excess fabric from the corners. 10. Armhole is too curved If the armhole is too curved, it can cause the garment to bunch up and create an unflattering appearance. To fix this, you can: – Lessen the curve of the armhole by cutting away excess fabric from the top or bottom, depending on the direction of the curve. – Use a less stretchy fabric that will hold its shape better. How to Measure Arm Hole Step 1: Determine the armhole depth. This is the distance from the top of your shoulder to the bottom of your armpit. To measure the armhole depth, place one end of a measuring tape at the top of your shoulder and extend it down to the bottom of your armpit. Hold the tape taut and record the measurement. Step 2: Determine the armhole width. This is the distance across your chest at the armpit level. To measure the armhole width, place one end of a measuring tape at the center of your chest and extend it across your chest to the other armpit. Hold the tape taut and record the measurement. Step 3: Determine the armhole circumference. This is the distance around your upper arm at the armpit level. To measure the armhole circumference, wrap a measuring tape around your upper arm at the armpit level. Hold the tape taut and record the measurement. People Also Ask About How to Measure Arm Hole What is the difference between armhole depth and armhole width? Armhole depth is the distance from the top of your shoulder to the bottom of your armpit, while armhole width is the distance across your chest at the armpit level. How do I know if the armhole is the right size? The armhole is the right size if it is snug but not too tight. You should be able to move your arms freely without any restriction. What happens if the armhole is too small? If the armhole is too small, it will restrict your movement and can cause discomfort. It can also make it difficult to wear clothing that has sleeves.