Finding the Perfect Fit – Your Guide to mindful and made-with-love Sewing

Finding the perfect fit is the first step to sewing something truly magical. Our patterns are carefully drafted for children’s sizes 1–14, and this handy size chart will help you choose the best size for your child’s measurements. Let’s take the guesswork out of sewing and make sure your finished pieces fit just as beautifully as they’re stitched.

How to Measure Your Child for a Perfect Fit

Before you choose a size, we recommend taking fresh measurements. Children grow fast (as we all know too well!) and the best fit starts with accurate sizing.

Use a soft measuring tape and have your child stand comfortably. Don’t pull the tape too tight—just snug enough to stay in place.

✨ Tip: Write measurements down and date them. It’s a fun way to track growth and helpful for future sewing!

Here’s what to measure:

  • Chest – Around the fullest part, with arms relaxed at their sides.
  • Height – From the top of the head to the floor, feet flat and standing straight.
  • Waist – Around the natural waistline, typically just above the belly button.
  • Trunk – Start at the center of the shoulder, go down the front, between the legs, and up the back to meet your starting point.
  • Hips – Around the fullest part of the hips and buttocks.

🎥 Watch the Tutorial:

If you’re sewing for a child, getting accurate measurements is the key to a perfect fit! In this quick and easy video, we walk you through exactly how to measure a child’s chest, waist, hips, height, and more—no guesswork required. This is especially helpful when working with PDF sewing patterns like ours at Boo and Lu. Click play to watch the full step-by-step guide!

Children’s Size Chart (1-14)

Children’s sewing pattern size chart for Boo and Lu PDF patterns

Tips for Choosing the Right Size

  • Always choose size based on body measurements, not store-bought sizes or age.
  • If your child falls between sizes, we recommend grading between sizes. For example, if your child has a size 5 chest and a size 6 waist, you can blend between those sizes at the side seams.
  • Our patterns include ease, so the finished garment will not match body measurements exactly. We include detailed ease and fit info in each pattern’s tutorial.

🧵 If your child has sensory sensitivities or special fit needs, check out our blog post on sensory-friendly sewing for helpful tips.

Interactive Size Calculator

Boo and Lu Size Calculator

Boo and Lu Size Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I size up to make it last longer?

While tempting, sizing up too much can lead to poor fit. We recommend choosing the correct size and lengthening the hem if you want a little extra growing room.

What happened to size 18-24m?

In our original size chart, the smallest size was called 18–24 months. With our updated size chart, this size is now labeled as Size 1. We expanded our size range to offer more in-between sizes, making it easier to find the perfect fit without large jumps between sizes.

Can I reuse this size chart for other brands?

No. Each pattern company drafts differently, and our size chart is tailored specifically for Boo and Lu’s pattern block.

Still Need Help?

We’re here for you! If you have questions about sizing, adjustments, or anything else, you can:
👉 Reach out in our Facebook sewing group
📧 Email us at [email protected]