We've been publishing patterns for more than ten years, so our sizing has changed a few times. Check your pattern number and keep reading for more sizing details.
Current size range: For Patterns numbered 3181 and higher.
These patterns include two different ranges sized 32”/24”/34” (81/61/86 cm) through 60”/53”/64” (152/134/162 cm). This means that you can print only the size range that you need.
Sizes 00-18 are drafted for a C cup, and our size 8 fit model is 5’8”.
Sizes 12-30 are drafted for a DD cup, and our size 20 fit model is 5’9”.
When selecting a size, please reference both the size chart and the finished garment measurement chart. Note the size range of your pattern and keep reading to learn how to pick the best sizes.
For patterns numbered 3143 to 3180:
These patterns include two different size ranges covering 32”/24”/34” (81/61/86 cm) through 54”/47”/58” (137/119/147 cm). This means that you can print only the size range that you need.
Sizes 00-16 are drafted for a C cup, and our size 8 fit model is 5’8”.
Sizes 12-26 are drafted for a DD cup, and our size 20 fit model is 5’9”.
When selecting a size, please reference both the size chart and the finished garment measurement chart. Note the size range of your pattern and keep reading to learn how to pick the best sizes.
For patterns numbered 3052 - 3142
These patterns include two different size ranges: misses and curvy. This means that you can choose a pattern in misses sizes 0-16 (XS-L) or curvy sizes 18-26 (XL-3X) and print only that size range.
Sizes 0-16 are drafted for a C cup, and sizes 18-26 are drafted for a DD cup, five feet, 8 inches tall.
For patterns numbered 1028 - 3051
These patterns are sized 0-26 (or XS-3X for knits) Sizes 0-16 are drafted for a C cup and sizes 18-26 are drafted for a DD cup.
For Colette patterns numbered 1001-1027
Our original size range was 0-18 and drafted for a C cup. At this time, the only pattern to be redrafted with the current size range is the Laurel dress and top. We do not have plans to redraft any of the original Colette designs with our current size range.
Sizing FAQ
How do I pick a size?
When selecting a size, please reference both the size chart and the finished garment measurement chart. The difference between the measurement in the size chart and the finished garment chart will tell you how much ease is in the design. To learn more about ease, watch this video on our YouTube channel.
- Our 00-18 size range is drafted for a C cup, designed to fit a somewhat less curvy body type.
- Our 12-30 size range is drafted for a DD cup, designed to fit a curvy body with a larger cup size and hips
- If you are between sizes, consider the area of the garment that needs the best fit. For tops, dresses, and outerwear, this is often the bust. For skirts and pants, this is often the hips.
- If you wear sizes 12-18, which fall in both size ranges, look at the measurements for each size range and select the one that matches your body’s measurements the most.
Why are there two size ranges?
We offer two size ranges for several reasons.
- Readability: Having more than one size range makes it easier to print and cut digital patterns.
Our patterns are designed to include different body types: Our curvy range is designed to fit a curvy body with a larger cup size and hips, and our misses size range is designed to fit a somewhat less curvy body type. Both these body types are based on anthropometric data in order to create the best fit at any size. - We can customize the fit: Having separate versions for each size range allows us to include small feature changes to the patterns and instructions that are best suited for each size range. For example, one design might fit better on a larger cup size if it has a dart added. With separate layouts and separate instructions, we can make this tweak to provide a better fit, including modified instructions.
- To save paper! If you only print the sizes you need, you’ll save paper.
Why can’t the size ranges be drafted the same?
The process of drafting both size ranges is exactly the same, but each size range is created from a different starting point, using a separate block and fit model. By using blocks for different body types, we are able to get the best fit for both size ranges.
Why does one size range have more ease than the other size range?
We attempt to make the ease even across the board, but sometimes there will be small differences. This can be due to different deltas between the base measurements for the bust, waist, and hip. It can also be due to decisions made during fittings when looking at the garments on different bodies.
How do I blend between sizes?
Start with the size range that most matches your body shape. For dresses and tops, choose the size that matches your bust measurements and cup size. For skirts and trousers, choose the size that matches your waist-to-hip ratio.
For more help with blending sizes, watch this tutorial on our YouTube channel.
Will past designs be updated to the new size ranges?
We don't have plans to change past designs at this time.
Can I only print one size?
If you print using Adobe, these patterns have the layers feature, so you can select the specific size(s) to print. Read more about layers here.
Here is a timeline of our sizing changes:
- In June 2022, we added sizes 28 and 30 and added size 18 to the 00-18 size range.
- In October 2021, we removed the terms "misses" and "curvy" from our size descriptions. The size ranges are 00-16 and 12-26. Nothing about the sizing was changed aside from the naming conventions.
- In November 2020, we expanded to our current split size range to offer additional fitting options, with misses 00-16 and curvy sizes 12-26.
- In July 2018, we changed knit patterns from alpha sizing (XS-3X) to numeric sizing (0-26). This is to allow you to get a better fit for knits!
- In January 2017, we introduced our split size range, with misses 0-16 and curvy 18-26. This included an update of our pattern blocks with two different fit models (base sizes 8 and 20).
- In April 2014, starting with Moneta, Myrtle, and Mabel (our first knit patterns!) our size range increased to 0-26/3X. Seamwork launched in 2015 with this size range.
- Our original size range for Colette Patterns was 0-18.