PatternFit

Intermediate · Front, back

Bodice block pattern generator from your measurements

In short: Enter bust, waist, back waist length, neck and shoulder length and this tool drafts a close-fitting front and back bodice block with waist darts, a marked bust point, armhole notches, seam allowance and grain lines. Sew a toile, correct it, and use it for tops and dresses. Preview free; the printable PDF is $4.99 for this style or $9.99 for a 7-day pass to every style (one style is free each day).

1. Your measurements

How to measure — hover a field for a tip.

2. Options

Bodice block — your size

10 cmBodice frontCut 1 on foldBodice backCut 1 on fold
  • Finished bust (block ease 10 cm)98 cm
  • Finished waist74 cm
  • Side seam (front = back)19 cm
  • Armhole total47.7 cm
  • Seam allowanceincluded
  • Pages6 × A4 + cover · or 1 × A0

Preview is free. Get the printable pattern:

  • Tiled A4 + cover page with 10 cm and 4 in squares
  • A0 projector / copy-shop file
  • Seam allowance, notches, grain lines, cutting notes

One-time payment by card through Stripe. No subscription, no account.

Before printing the pattern, print the free 1-page test at 100% and check the 10 cm square.

Measurements you need

BustAround the fullest part of the bust, tape level across the back.
WaistAround your natural waist, the narrowest part of the torso. Tie a string there first.
Back waist lengthFrom the prominent neck bone (nape) down the spine to the waist string.
NeckAround the base of the neck, over the nape bone and front hollow.
Shoulder lengthFrom the side of the neck to the shoulder bone tip, along the top of the shoulder.

Full guide with tips: how to measure yourself for sewing.

How to use it

  1. Measure bust, waist, back length, neck and shoulder.
  2. Sew a toile in calico and pin out the fit.
  3. Transfer the corrections and use the block for new designs.

Questions

Is a bodice block drafted from measurements accurate?

It is a sound starting point. Bust shape, posture and shoulder slope vary, so plan one toile and small adjustments — the same is true of every drafting system.

Does it include a bust dart?

The front has a waist dart pointing at the bust point and the waist dips at centre front for bust shaping. The bust point is marked so you can move the dart to the side seam or shoulder.

Can I use it for knit tops?

Use the T-shirt pattern for knits instead; a bodice block is drafted with ease for woven fabric.

Other patterns