Measuring T-Shirt Length: A Quick Guide To Sizing

how to measure a t shirt length

T-shirts are a staple in most wardrobes, but finding the perfect fit can be challenging. Each brand has its own sizing chart, and their measurements can be inconsistent. This often results in a T-shirt that fits well in some areas but not in others. To find your perfect T-shirt, you can measure a T-shirt you already own and compare it to the sizing chart of the one you want to buy.

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Neck to Shoulder

To measure the neck-to-shoulder length of a T-shirt, you must first lay the T-shirt flat on a hard surface with the front facing up. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases. Next, take a flexible tape measure and place one end at the middle of the neck of the T-shirt. Pull the tape measure out until you reach the end of the shoulder, or where the sleeve starts. Record the measurement to the nearest 1/4 inch. It is important to measure twice to ensure accuracy. This process is the same whether you are measuring a T-shirt you already own or one you are considering buying online.

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Sleeve length

To measure the sleeve length of a T-shirt, first lay the T-shirt flat on a hard, flat surface, ensuring the front is facing up and smoothing out any creases. Then, follow these steps:

Step 1:

Measure from the middle of the neck to the end of the shoulder (where the sleeve starts). This is the neck-to-shoulder measurement.

Step 2:

Measure from the shoulder to the wrist. This is the sleeve length.

Step 3:

Add the measurements from Step 1 and Step 2 together to get the total sleeve length.

It is important to note that sleeve length is not always based on arm length, as shirt sleeves do not start at the same spot on the shoulder, and each person has different shoulder widths. Therefore, when measuring sleeve length, always start from the centre back of the neck/spine, over the top of the shoulder, and down to the wrist.

Additionally, the shape of the sleeve armhole will affect the shoulder measurement, which in turn affects the sleeve measurement. Common sleeve armhole shapes include set-in, drop shoulders, raglan, straight, and saddle.

When measuring, ensure your arm is slightly bent at the elbow to allow for ease of movement. Failing to do so may result in a short sleeve length, as the natural position of the arm is slightly bent.

For long-sleeve T-shirts, sleeve lengths typically come in 1" increments.

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Shoulder to Shoulder

Measuring the shoulder-to-shoulder length of a T-shirt is a simple process that can help you find the perfect fit. Here is a step-by-step guide to measuring this length accurately:

Preparing to Measure:

  • Lay the T-shirt on a flat surface: Spread the T-shirt on a hard, flat surface, such as a table or a rigid board. Make sure to smooth out any wrinkles or creases to ensure an accurate measurement. The front of the T-shirt should be facing up.
  • Use a flexible measuring tape: A flexible measuring tape will provide the most precise measurement. Avoid using rigid rulers or construction tapes, as they may not contour to the shape of the T-shirt.

Measuring Shoulder-to-Shoulder Length:

  • Identify the shoulder seams: Look for the seams on the T-shirt, which are the lines where the sleeves attach to the body of the shirt. You will be measuring from one shoulder seam to the other.
  • Position the measuring tape: Place one end of the measuring tape at the top of the left shoulder seam. Ensure that the tape is aligned with the bottom of the shirt and is lying flat and horizontal.
  • Measure across to the other shoulder seam: Stretch the measuring tape straight across to the top of the right shoulder seam. Keep the tape in contact with the T-shirt, following the curve of the shirt, but avoid pulling it too tight.
  • Record the measurement: Note the distance between the two shoulder seams in either inches or centimetres, depending on your preference.

Tips for Accurate Measurement:

  • Consider your body shape: If you have broader-than-average shoulders, you may need to size up when purchasing clothing online.
  • Take measurements twice: It is important to ensure consistent measurements. Measure the distance a second time, and make sure the results match.
  • Compare with a well-fitting T-shirt: If you have a T-shirt that fits you well, you can use it as a reference. Measure the shoulder-to-shoulder distance on that T-shirt and compare it with the measurements of the new T-shirt.
  • Stand upright and relaxed: When measuring your own shoulders, stand with good posture, feet flat on the ground, and shoulders relaxed. This will help you find the correct points to measure and ensure an accurate result.

By following these steps, you can easily determine the shoulder-to-shoulder length of a T-shirt, helping you make informed decisions when purchasing clothing to find the perfect fit for your body.

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Chest

To measure the chest of a T-shirt, lay the T-shirt flat on a hard surface, ensuring there are no wrinkles. Place the tape measure close under the arms and make sure the tape is flat across the back. Measure from the bottom of one armpit to the bottom of the other armpit.

When measuring your own chest to find your T-shirt size, stand up straight with your arms hanging down in a relaxed, natural pose. Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape measure tight under the armpits and over the shoulder blades.

It is important to take accurate measurements to ensure a better fit when buying T-shirts online. Each country has its own sizing standards, so you can choose the size based on your measurements and find the corresponding sizes on different size charts.

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Waist

To measure the waist of a T-shirt, lay the T-shirt on a flat surface, preferably a hard one, and smooth out any creases or wrinkles. Then, measure the waistline from one side of the T-shirt to the other.

If you are measuring your waist to find the right T-shirt size, wrap a tape measure around the narrowest part of your waist, which is usually around the belly button. Your waist is a few inches above your hips and right below the bottom of your rib cage. Be sure not to suck in your stomach or gut, and only stand as you would throughout the day. The tape should be loose enough to move around your body. Write down the number to the closest inch.

Frequently asked questions

The first step is to lay the T-shirt on a flat hard surface and smooth out any wrinkles.

To measure the length, turn the T-shirt over, smooth out the wrinkles and place the measuring tape on the collar, bring it straight down to the hem of the garment and note the measurement.

It is recommended to use a flexible tape measure that is at least 36" long. Measurements should be taken twice to ensure accuracy, and recorded to the nearest 1/4 inch.

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