What size??

[tryptikangel]

It's been forever since I've posted on here, but I've been keeping busy with different crochet projects and more recently different arts and crafts as well. I'm currently working on a baby dress as my first clothing item. The pattern is the Solomon's Knot baby dress by Teresa found here: http://crochet-mania.blogspot.com/2008/07/blog-post_22.html

 

My question... I'm using sport weight yarn and a G hook, but I'm not sure how to measure to know what size this dress is turning out to be. I've never had to measure for anything like this since I don't yet have children and I don't really know anyone who has a baby, at least none nearby that I can test the fit on. If I lay the dress flat and measure across under the arms I get approx. 8" so does that mean it will fit a 16" chest? But, if I fold the tape measure around the dress lying flat it comes out to be 18". I have a door stop doll my MIL made that is about 18" around and the dress fits over that nicely with room to spare. So I am totally confused about how to do an accurate measurement to know what size this is, and if I choose to make different sizes I'll need to know how to measure for those as well. Any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

[crochetbydiana]

Cute dress. The size you are making would be considered newborn. Her suggestion of using larger hook works if your tension is the same as hers. For example, I tend to stitch tight. I'd use the G hook to get the newborn size. I personally don't like increasing my hook size to enlarge an item but rather adjust with increases or decreases vs a looser stitch. smile

http://www.yarnstandards.com/sizing.html

 

One trick I learned years ago is go to a second hand store and buy sizes that interest you. Of course, even different manufactures may veer from standards or add more or less ease to their clothing. But, it'll give you a good rough estimate of size for babies, and children. Happy stitching.

[tryptikangel]

Ok. But if I have no gauge to compare my stitches with, how do I know if I'm crocheting tighter or more loose than her? And if I decide to use different materials and hook sizes to get different results, how do I measure to know what chest size the dresses will fit? I have the chart to tell me what size a newborn should be, etc. but I have no idea how to measure the garment itself to get that size.

[crochetbydiana]

Ok. But if I have no gauge to compare my stitches with, how do I know if I'm crocheting tighter or more loose than her? And if I decide to use different materials and hook sizes to get different results, how do I measure to know what chest size the dresses will fit? I have the chart to tell me what size a newborn should be, etc. but I have no idea how to measure the garment itself to get that size.

 

At the yarn standards url(http://www.craftyarncouncil.com/standards.html) it shows where measurements should be taken in general. Normally, you measure the piece flat/smoothed across the front for chest. On the dress you are making, it's after you make the join for the sleeves. Visualize where the babies nipples would be. Double that measurement for your chest circumference. Take a look at the Standards for ease. When using patterns they don't generally mention ease but will state chest sizes and finished chest size. (usually, that includes the ease).

Another resource: http://www.*****************/knitting/tips/sizing.htm

 

 

If a pattern doesn't provide a gauge then it's a wild guess on your part. Though, the Sizes given will give you a clue.

[crochetbydiana]

Sorry, looks like that last resource url isn't allowed at Crochetville.