Cashmerette Size Calculator

What is a Cashmerette Size Calculator?

A Cashmerette size calculator is a specialized online tool designed to help sewists determine their ideal pattern size for Cashmerette brand sewing patterns. Unlike conventional pattern companies that often draft for a B-cup, Cashmerette patterns are uniquely drafted for a C/D cup, with options to grade to E/F and G/H cup sizes. This means their sizing system is tailored for curvier figures, leading to a much better fit straight out of the envelope for many sewists.

This calculator simplifies the process by taking your key body measurements – specifically your high bust, full bust, waist, and hip – and translating them into the corresponding Cashmerette pattern sizes. It also helps in determining your recommended Cashmerette cup size, which is a critical first step in achieving a great fit with their patterns.

Who should use it? Anyone planning to sew with Cashmerette patterns will benefit from this tool. It's especially useful for those new to the brand, or experienced sewists who want to double-check their measurements against the Cashmerette size chart quickly and accurately. It helps eliminate common misunderstandings about cup sizing in sewing patterns and ensures you start with the correct foundation for your garment.

Common misunderstandings: A frequent mistake is using standard ready-to-wear bra cup sizes or other pattern brands' cup sizing directly. Cashmerette's cup sizing is based on the difference between your full bust and high bust measurements, not your bra size. Also, remember that Cashmerette patterns are designed for a specific block; while the calculator provides a starting point, individual body variations and desired ease might still require minor adjustments.

Cashmerette Size Calculator Formula and Explanation

The core of the Cashmerette size calculator relies on mapping your body measurements to the brand's unique sizing chart. The primary logic involves two steps: determining your cup size, and then identifying the closest pattern size for your bust, waist, and hip.

Cup Size Calculation

Cashmerette defines cup size based on the difference between your Full Bust and High Bust measurements:

• (Full Bust) - (High Bust) ≤ 2 inches (5 cm): C/D Cup
• 2 inches (5 cm) < (Full Bust) - (High Bust) ≤ 4 inches (10 cm): E/F Cup
• (Full Bust) - (High Bust) > 4 inches (10 cm): G/H Cup

Individual Size Calculation

For each measurement (High Bust, Full Bust, Waist, Hip), the calculator finds the Cashmerette size that most closely matches your measurement. This often results in different sizes for different body areas, which is perfectly normal and encourages the practice of "blending sizes" across the pattern pieces for a truly custom fit.

Variables Used in This Cashmerette Size Calculator:

Practical Examples of Using the Cashmerette Size Calculator

Let's walk through a couple of examples to see how the Cashmerette size calculator works in practice.

Example 1: Imperial Measurements (Inches)

Sarah has the following measurements:

• High Bust: 37 inches
• Full Bust: 40 inches
• Waist: 33 inches
• Hip: 43 inches

Calculation:

1. Cup Size: Full Bust (40") - High Bust (37") = 3". This falls between 2" and 4", so Sarah is an E/F Cup.
2. Bust Size: Her Full Bust of 40" corresponds to Cashmerette Size 20.
3. Waist Size: Her Waist of 33" corresponds to Cashmerette Size 18.
4. Hip Size: Her Hip of 43" corresponds to Cashmerette Size 18.

Result: Sarah's recommended Cashmerette size blend is E/F Cup, Size 20 Bust, Size 18 Waist, Size 18 Hip. She would choose her pattern based on her bust size and then blend down at the waist and hip.

Example 2: Metric Measurements (Centimeters)

Maria prefers using centimeters. Her measurements are:

• High Bust: 92 cm
• Full Bust: 102 cm
• Waist: 82 cm
• Hip: 107 cm

Calculation (internally converted to inches for calculation, then back to cm for display):

(Internal conversion: 92cm ≈ 36.2", 102cm ≈ 40.2", 82cm ≈ 32.3", 107cm ≈ 42.1")

1. Cup Size: Full Bust (40.2") - High Bust (36.2") = 4". This falls between 2" and 4", so Maria is an E/F Cup.
2. Bust Size: Her Full Bust of 102 cm (40.2") is closest to Cashmerette Size 20 (40").
3. Waist Size: Her Waist of 82 cm (32.3") is closest to Cashmerette Size 18 (33").
4. Hip Size: Her Hip of 107 cm (42.1") is closest to Cashmerette Size 16 (42").

Result: Maria's recommended Cashmerette size blend is E/F Cup, Size 20 Bust, Size 18 Waist, Size 16 Hip. The calculator automatically handles the unit conversion, providing accurate results regardless of input unit.

How to Use This Cashmerette Size Calculator

Our Cashmerette size calculator is designed for ease of use, ensuring you get accurate results for your sewing projects. Follow these simple steps:

1. Take Accurate Measurements: Use a flexible tape measure to get your High Bust, Full Bust, Waist, and Hip measurements. Ensure the tape is snug but not tight, and parallel to the floor. For best results, wear the undergarments you intend to wear with your finished garment.
2. Select Your Units: Choose "Inches" or "Centimeters" from the "Measurement Units" dropdown menu. The calculator will automatically convert input values and display results in your chosen unit.
3. Enter Your Measurements: Input your High Bust, Full Bust, Waist, and Hip measurements into the respective fields. As you type, the calculator will dynamically update your results.
4. Review Instant Results: The "Your Cashmerette Size Recommendations" section will display your calculated cup size and individual pattern sizes for your bust, waist, and hip.
5. Interpret Your Results:
   • Cup Size: This is crucial for Cashmerette patterns. It tells you which bust cup option to use with your pattern.
   • Individual Sizes: You will likely get different sizes for your bust, waist, and hip. This is normal! Cashmerette patterns are designed for "blending sizes" to achieve a custom fit. For example, if you are a size 14 bust, 16 waist, and 18 hip, you would start with the size 14 bust pattern piece and grade out to a 16 at the waist and 18 at the hip.
6. Utilize the Chart and Graph: Refer to the "Cashmerette Sizing Chart" and "Your Measurements vs. Cashmerette Size Chart" graph for a visual comparison of your measurements against the standard sizes.
7. Copy Your Results: Click the "Copy Results" button to quickly save your recommendations for future reference.
8. Reset if Needed: If you want to calculate for different measurements, click the "Reset" button to clear the inputs and restore default values.

Key Factors That Affect Cashmerette Sizing

While the Cashmerette size calculator provides an excellent starting point, several factors can influence your final pattern size choice and required adjustments:

1. Body Shape and Proportions: Cashmerette patterns are drafted for a specific curvier block. If your body shape significantly deviates (e.g., very broad shoulders, sway back, prominent abdomen), you might need further adjustments beyond the initial size recommendation.
2. Desired Ease: Sewing patterns include "ease," which is the amount of extra room in the garment beyond your body measurements. Woven patterns typically have more ease than knit patterns. Consider if you prefer a looser or closer-fitting garment, and this might influence whether you size up or down slightly.
3. Fabric Stretch: The stretch percentage of your chosen fabric for knit patterns is critical. A fabric with high stretch will accommodate more body measurement than a low-stretch fabric for the same pattern size. Always check the pattern's recommended stretch.
4. Pattern Design and Style: Different Cashmerette patterns might have varying amounts of ease or design features that affect fit. A fitted dress will require a more precise size than a loose-fitting top.
5. Posture and Body Movement: Your posture (e.g., rounded upper back, forward-tilting pelvis) can affect how a garment hangs and feels. Consider how you move and sit in your clothes.
6. Undergarments: The type of bra or shapewear you typically wear can alter your bust and waist measurements. Always measure while wearing the undergarments you plan to wear with the finished garment.
7. Measurement Accuracy: The most significant factor is the accuracy of your initial body measurements. Even a slight error can lead to a different size recommendation. Always re-measure if unsure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Cashmerette Size Calculator

Q: Why is Cashmerette sizing different from other pattern companies?

A: Cashmerette patterns are specifically drafted for a C/D cup, with options for E/F and G/H cups. Many other pattern companies draft for a B-cup, meaning sewists with larger busts often need extensive full bust adjustments (FBAs). Cashmerette's approach provides a better starting fit for many curvy figures.

Q: How do I measure my High Bust and Full Bust accurately for this Cashmerette size calculator?

A: For High Bust, measure around your chest, directly under your armpits and above your bust. For Full Bust, measure around the fullest part of your bust. Ensure the tape measure is parallel to the floor for both and snug but not tight. Wear the bra you typically wear.

Q: What if my measurements fall between two sizes on the Cashmerette chart?

A: The calculator will recommend the closest size. When between sizes, consider the garment type and your desired fit. For woven garments, you might size up for more ease. For knit garments, you might size down if your fabric has more stretch than recommended.

Q: Can I use this calculator if I typically wear a different bra cup size?

A: Yes! Cashmerette's cup sizing is unique to their patterns and based on the difference between your full and high bust measurements, not your bra size. This calculator will give you the correct Cashmerette cup size regardless of your ready-to-wear bra size.

Q: The calculator gives me different sizes for my bust, waist, and hip. What does "blending sizes" mean?

A: Blending sizes means using different pattern sizes for different sections of your garment. For example, you might use a size 16 for the bust, grade out to a size 18 at the waist, and then back to a size 16 at the hip. This is a common and recommended practice for achieving a custom fit, especially for curvier bodies, and Cashmerette patterns are designed to facilitate this.

Q: Why is the unit switcher important for the Cashmerette size calculator?

A: The unit switcher allows you to input your measurements in either inches or centimeters, whichever you are most comfortable with. The calculator handles the conversion internally, ensuring the calculations are always accurate based on the Cashmerette chart (which is typically published in inches), and then displays your results in your chosen unit.

Q: What are the typical ranges for Cashmerette sizes?

A: Cashmerette patterns generally cover a wide range, from sizes 0-32, corresponding to full bust measurements from 30 inches (76 cm) up to 52 inches (132 cm), and hip measurements from 34 inches (86 cm) up to 56 inches (142 cm). Always check the specific pattern's size chart for its exact range.

Q: I have very unique body proportions (e.g., significantly different front/back measurements). Will this calculator still work?

A: The calculator provides a strong starting point based on standard circumference measurements. For very unique proportions, you might still need advanced pattern adjustments (like full bicep adjustments, swayback adjustments, or broad back adjustments) after determining your base size with the calculator. It's a foundational tool.

Related Tools and Internal Resources for Your Sewing Journey

Enhance your sewing experience and achieve the perfect fit with these additional resources:

• Sewing Body Measurements Guide: Learn how to take all your essential body measurements accurately for any sewing project.
• How to Choose the Right Sewing Pattern Size: A comprehensive guide to understanding pattern sizing beyond just the numbers.
• Mastering Cup Size Adjustments in Sewing: Deep dive into full bust adjustments (FBA) and small bust adjustments (SBA).
• Best Sewing Patterns for Curvy Figures: Discover other pattern companies and designs that cater to curvier bodies.
• Understanding Pattern Ease: Demystify the concept of wearing ease and design ease in your garments.
• Sewing for Different Body Shapes: Tips and tricks for fitting patterns to various body types and proportions.