Body circumference
Bust controls upper-body width; waist controls lower bodice shaping. Ease determines how close the block sits on the body.
Sewing pattern guide
Bodice measurements guide
A bodice block connects shoulder, neckline, armhole, bust, waist, and length measurements. Small errors can strongly affect fit.
Front and back length
Front and back length balance the bodice vertically. A mismatch can pull the shoulder, neckline, or waistline out of position.
Shoulder width
Shoulder width places the armhole and affects sleeve fit. It should be checked before attaching a sleeve.
Armhole depth
Armhole depth affects comfort, sleeve mobility, and how much fabric sits under the arm.
Neckline shape
Round, deeper, or V-neck shapes change both the opening and the finishing method.
Darts and waist shaping
Darts shape the bodice around bust and waist. Their intake and position must be tested on the body or a mockup.
Before cutting fabric
After generating a bodice, check shoulder length, neckline shape, armhole curve, waist shaping, front/back balance, dart placement, and sleeve compatibility.