How to Adjust Sweater Patterns for Sizes Outside the Standard Range

How to Adjust Sweater Patterns for Sizes Outside the Standard Range

Have you ever looked at a sweater pattern and realized it doesn't include your size? Maybe you need to size up or down, but you're not sure how to adjust the pattern correctly. In this post, I’ll show you how to modify sweater patterns for sizes outside the standard range without compromising fit or design.

Why Standard Sizes Aren’t Enough
Many sweater patterns are designed based on a limited size range, leaving out people whose bodies don’t fit into those categories. If you're outside the standard range, don’t worry—you can still make a sweater that fits you beautifully.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sizing Adjustments

  1. Bust Adjustment: Whether you need to increase or decrease the bust measurement, this is the most important area to start with. Learn how to add or subtract stitches without disrupting the overall design.

  2. Length Adjustments: Taller or shorter than average? Adding length to the body and sleeves is simple once you know how to measure correctly.

  3. Waist and Hip Adjustments: Adjust for your waist or hips by changing stitch counts in specific areas of the pattern to make sure the garment fits your shape.

Andrea’s Plus-Size Adjustment Success
Andrea always struggled to find patterns that fit her bust and waist measurements. After working through the sizing adjustments in Cardigans For Every Body, she was able to modify a pattern to fit her perfectly. Now, she customizes every pattern to her exact size and gets a great fit every time.

Testimonial: "I used to avoid making sweaters because patterns never fit me. Thanks to Tian’s book, I’ve learned how to modify any pattern to fit my body—and now I have sweaters I actually love wearing." – Andrea G.

In Cardigans For Every Body, I walk you through common pattern adjustments like bust increases, length modifications, and armhole reshaping, ensuring you can always make a sweater that fits, no matter the pattern size.


Ready to make sweaters that fit your unique size? In Cardigans For Every Body, you’ll find all the tools you need to modify patterns for any body shape or size. Want even more guidance? Enroll in the Cardigans For Every Body Masterclass and learn how to make sweaters that fit like a dream, no matter your size!

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