Knitting a sweater on your own is a fantastic way to create a unique design and customize it according to your body shape. But let’s admit it- taking the appropriate measurements isn’t all about fun because you need to make zero mistakes to get the best results. If you’re unsure about how to measure armholes in knitting, here’s a quick answer for you.
You only need a measurement tape and a well-fitted sweater to accurately measure your armholes. If you don’t have a perfectly fitted sweater at hand, don’t worry. Just grab a needle, a measuring tape, and your knitting. You will need to follow some step-by-step instructions while doing the process.
To learn the whole process, keep reading because I am going to share in detail How to Measure Armholes in Knitting with some special tips. This will allow you to take the right measurements of your armholes.
Why Is Measuring Armholes Important?
You must be someone who loves to wear comfortable fitted dresses and I presume sweaters are no different. Here comes the importance of the accurate measurement of your armholes. If the measurement goes wrong then the entire outlook will be unpleasant at the same time it will ruin your comfort. Ensuring the accurate measurement of your armholes will prevent your dress from being too tight or too loose.
If your sweater’s armholes become too large, then it might create a gap between the sweater and the arms. It can unintentionally expose your undergarments, and you may look oversized in those sweaters.
The proper measurement of armholes also allows you to customize your knittings project, You can create a unique design that matches your body measurements. Your sweater will look mesmerizing when it’s well-fitted, including the armholes.
How Do I Measure Armholes in Knitting?
Armhole measurement is all about determining the distance between the shoulder where the sleeve joins the body and the underarm where the sleeve meets the body.
The length of an armhole is usually calculated by using a standard formula as follows:
Armhole (in inches) = Bust measurement divided by 6, then add approximately 1.37 to 2.36 inches, depending on the body shape.
Here’s how the standard armhole sizes are calculated:
- Size S: Armhole 20.6 cm (8.11 inches)
- Size M: Armhole 21.5 cm (8.46 inches)
- Size L: Armhole 22.1 cm (8.70 inches)
- Size XL: Armhole 22.3 cm (8.77 inches)
- Size XXL: Armhole 23.1 cm (9.09 inches)
- Size XXXL: Armhole 23.5 cm (9.25 inches)
- For sizes larger than XXXL, the armhole size remains approximately 24 cm (9.45 inches).
There are two different ways to measure the armholes. For the two ways you will need different measurements, Let me explain this in detail.
Method One
Take the measurement from your well-fitted sweater. This method will allow you to replicate your favorite fit. If there’s a sweater in your wardrobe that fits you nicely and has the perfect armhole size then grab the sweater for your knitting project.
Things You’ll Need for the Method:
- A straight edge
- A measurement tape
- A well-fitted sweater
Step-by-step guidelines
- First, you need to place the straight edge in your sweater’s armholes.
- Then take the measurement tape and measure vertically from the shoulder, where the sweater’s shoulder and sleeve meet down to the armhole opening. This should give you an accurate measurement of your armhole.
This is the easiest way to measure perfectly in your armholes, if you have a well-fitted sweater then you are all set there.
Method Two
In this way, you will need:
- A needle
- A measuring tape
- A piece of knitted
Step-by-Step Guidelines
- In this method, You have to place your needle under the arm and make sure it sits properly.
- Then, take your measurement tape, and place it over your shoulder, where the front of the sweater would join with the back and create a seamless line.
- Now drop your measuring tape down and curve Around the upper part of the shoulder.
- After completing the process for both arms, record your measurements. For instance, let’s say that the measurement for your left armhole is 6.5 inches using this method.
Now,
Imagine you’re preparing to knit a sweater, you measure the curve of a 7 1/4-inch armhole depth sample, it comes out to 8 1/4 inches. Armhole depth should be measured by going around the curve (or half armscye), which results in 8 1/4 inches.
If you were to measure armhole depth by curving the tape measure under your arm and obtaining 7 inches, adding ease to that would lead to an oversized fit of 8 to 8 1/2 inches. On the other hand, if you accurately measure it at just about 6 inches, and then add ease, this will result in a comfy and well-fitting 7 to 7 1/2 inches.
After doing the process accordingly, the knitting should be perfectly fitted and will give a pleasant outlook.
We tried to cover the process from the bottom to the end. However, if you still have any confusion, please watch the video to be more clear about it.
Conclusion
Measuring the armhole while knitting may seem a bit confusing, but after reading the article I believe you got the answer to your question How to Measure Armholes in Knitting. Now you
can confidently measure your armhole in an accurate way. Do whatever way suits you. Happy knitting!
Questions May Ask
Can I Use Any Tool for Shaping the Armhole?
Yes, you can use the French curve tool for taking measurements of your armholes. This tool also helps you to take the measurements of collars and necklines.
What is the Objective of Armhole Measurement?
Armhole measurement is a process of determining the size and dimension of the armhole for cloth, especially in knitting and sewing. The accuracy of armhole measurement provides comfort and a pleasant outlook.
How Can I Shape My Armhole Pattern?
Basically, while kitting you will notice the pattern itself will lead you to shape the armholes. You have to start by binding off 4 stitches in the first 2 rows, then 3 stitches in the next 2 rows, again 2 stitches in the subsequent 2 rows, and lastly you will need to make 1 stitch in the first 2 rows.
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