Petite sewing patterns (1.60 m and under)

A size chart doesn't only describe circumferences. Behind every column there is a reference height, and the pattern's lengths (bodice, sleeves, legs) are drafted for it; from one size to the next, grading mostly changes the circumferences, and the lengths barely move. When you are 1.60 m or under, you choose your size by your bust or your hips, and the lengths stay those of a taller figure: the garment's waistline sits below yours, the bust dart may point too low, and the sleeve comes down over your hand.

Shortening a shop-bought pattern can be done, on the lengthen/shorten lines provided. But it has to be done at the bodice (above and below the armhole), at the sleeve and at the leg, in the right place each time, and then the curves have to be blended again. A pattern drafted to your measurements has, in principle, nothing to shorten: it starts from your lengths.

To find the reference height behind a chart, read our guide to understanding a size chart.

The lengths that matter for a petite figure are among the eleven body measurements we ask for. Each one is measured on you; none is worked out from your height:

• front length, from the neck point (where the shoulder meets the neck) down to the waist, passing over the bust point;
• back length, from the neck point, not from the bone at the nape of the neck, then straight down your back to the waist;
• arm length, from the shoulder point to the wrist, with the elbow slightly bent;
• your height, standing barefoot with your back against a wall.

To measure yourself accurately, follow our guide to taking your measurements.

For trousers or shorts, we also ask for your inside leg and thigh measurements. They are optional and, without them, estimated from your other measurements. For a petite figure, give your inside leg: it is the inner length of your leg, measured on you instead of estimated.

For a skirt, we ask you for the length you want. In the optional ‘For a more accurate pattern’ step, waist to floor, taken barefoot with your feet together, gives accurate skirt lengths.

The form accepts a height from 140 cm. Below that, we can't yet draft accurately, and we would rather say so.

The standard sizes offered along the way are there to get you started, and they are based on a height of 1.64 to 1.66 m. For a petite figure, start from your measurements instead: they are what make the pattern.

The pattern follows your lengths; it doesn't replace a fitting. A toile is still recommended: it tells you whether the garment's waistline falls at yours and whether the sleeve stops where you want it.

Our studio does not draft these yet: bustiers, halterneck tops, wrap dresses, dressing gowns and kimonos, kaftans, ponchos, pleated skirts, wrap skirts, corsets, lingerie, swimwear, wedding dresses and formal occasion or haute couture pieces. If your design can't be drafted, no credits are deducted.

T-shirts and vest tops, skirts, jumpers and sweatshirts, hoodies and shorts are the families we know best. A simple skirt and elastic-waist shorts are the easiest; T-shirts and sweatshirts are sewn in knit fabric and need a stretch stitch.