Posts Tagged ‘clothes’

Sewing Needle Size Chart

Monday, March 8th, 2010

Since the 19th century, sewing needle sizes have been specified according to numbers. Sewing NeedleThey number from 1 to 24; these numbers point to the diameter of the needle. The lower the number, the thicker the needle. This is true regardless of the needle type.

Common Needle Types and Uses

There are dozens of needle types available. Among the most common are the following.

The sharps come in sizes 1 to 10. The eyes are small and sharp. These are referred to as the standard or ordinary needle. The betweens measure 3 to 10. These needles are not as long as sharps. They are also referred to as quilting needles.

The milliners are very long (the sewing needle size is 1 5/8 in). The eyes are round and small. They’re also called the milliner straw needles.

The crewels come in the 1 to 10 sizes. The length is medium and the eyes are bigger than the sharps. These are often utilized for embroidery, thus earning the moniker embroidery needles. The chenille needle measures 13 to 26.

They are characterized by their thickness and big eyes. Resembling tapestry needles, they are used for embroidery laced with heavy yarn.

Other Needle Types

Tapestry needles measure 13 to 26. These have large eyes and the points are blunt. These needles are also quite thick. These needles are used for embroidery and also some needlepoint.

The sewing needle size of cotton darners ranges from 1 to 5. these needles are very long and Utilized for basting. The eyes are equally long. These needles are also employed for darning. The yarn needle sizes are from 14 to 18. They are long with large eyes. These are often used for heavy yarn.

Two special needles types are also available. The mattress needles are semicircular in shape. They are heavy and long. The doll needles measure 3½ to 7 inches. As the name implies, these are used for making dolls. They are also employed for creating stuffed animals.

Machine Sewing Needles

The sewing needle sizes used in sewing machines are different. One number used denotes whether it can be used in a machine or not. In the United States, the number is 15 × 1. In Europe the number usually is 30/705.

Another number is used to determine the needle’s diameter over the scarf. In the US, the number is between 6 and 22; the lower the number, the thinner the needle.

In Europe the needle diameter is from 50 to 130. This is measured via the hundredths of a millimeter. Sewing machines are sold with marks like 9/65. This is used to indicate the US and European sizes.

However, things can get confusing because the numbers could also indicate the number of needles installed. In some European stores, the numbers could indicate the needle distance. Common twin needles are 1.6/70, 2.0/75, 2.5/75, 3.0/90, 4.0/75, 4.0/100, and 6.0/100.

The sewing needle sizes used in other countries may be different. In some countries, either the US or European measuring system is used.

Camisole Size Guide

Monday, February 15th, 2010

As the following camisole size guide will show, the sizes are as varied as the styles. Bear in mind that some manufacturers use centimeters or letters. However, a lot of stores have metric or imperial equivalents.

Standard Camisole Measurements

Sizes are x-small, small, medium, large, x-large and plus sizes. The x-small size measures 33" (bust), 23" (waist), 34" (hips) 32 (slip size), 4/P (panty size) and 6 (garment size). The small size measurements are 35" (bust), 25" (waist), 36" (hips), 34 (slip size), 5/S (panty size) and 8 (garment size).

The medium size specifications are 37" (bust), 27" (waist), 38" (hips), 36 (slip size), 6/M (panty size) and 10 (garment size). A general camisole size guide will show that the large specs are 39" (bust), 29" (waist), 40" (hips), 38 (slip size), 7/L (panty size), 12 (garment size).

The x-large measurements are 41" (bust), 31" (waist), 42" (hips), 40 (slip size), 8/XL (panty size) and 14 (garment size).

The plus sizes are 1X, 2X and 3X. 1X sizes are 43" (bust), 33" (waist), 44" (hips) and 14 – 16 (garment size). 2X measurements are 47" (bust), 37" (waist), 48" (hips) and 18 – 20 (garment size). The 3X measurements are 51" (bust), 41" (waist), 52" (hips) and 22 – 24 (garment size).

Although this camisole size guide states the standard sizes, manufacturers often come up with different styles that allow the camisole to stretch (i.e. like a one size fits all).

Camisole Types and Styles

Camisoles that have no support are often used for layering, while camisoles fitted with a bra cup provides bra like support. The body shaper provides support for the whole upper body. There are also several styles as well. The sheer camisole can be wide, thin or strapless. It can be outwear or donned in a blouse.

There is also the backless camisole (self explanatory) and the padded camisole, designed for shaping. While a camisole size guide is essential when buying, don’t neglect the styles too.

The silk or synthetic kind is ideal if you want a professional look. If you prefer extra coverage, layering a couple of camisoles together will do. When you do this, make sure the necklines and straps are the same.

Straps and Neck

The strap sizes also vary, from the spaghetti straps to wider types. The latter are used for concealing bra straps. There are also some camisoles equipped with built-in bras for support.

The neck designs vary, with V and the scoop among the most popular. There is no shortage of fabrics to choose from either. There are camisoles in nylon, silk, cotton, polyester etc.

Tips

If you’re wearing it for work, a simple camisole will be fine; the lacy types are best for special occasions. For the weekend, you can don a lace camisole with a pair of jeans. For sleepwear, cotton camisoles are the most ideal. However, make sure the size is right. If it’s too tight, you’ll be uncomfortable.

As you can see, it takes more than a camisole size guide to find the right one. You have to consider the fabric and styles too.

Stitching Awl Sizes

Saturday, February 13th, 2010

In addition to sewing needles, scissors and thimble, there are many other important materials that are widely used in sewing, one of which is the stitching awl. This relatively simple tool is commonly used to puncture holes on leather and other materials. Aside from this basic task, it is also utilized to enlarge existing holes. It also works perfectly well on heavier materials like canvases or leathers. It features a tapered but thin metal shaft, with a slightly bent or straight pointed end. Besides these facts, there are more to learn about this tool including the different stitching awl sizes.

The Sizes of Stitching Awls

The size of a standard stitching awl is close to 6.75 inches long. It makes use of a variety of blades, with the usual sizes ranging from 32 millimeters to 90 millimeters. Although most variants are sold individually, it may be part of different stitching kits, the average length of which is 4.75 inches. Stitching awls are classified into various types, some of the most common of which are the bridle awl, the scratch awl and the clicker’s awl.

Additional Facts and Other Interesting Details

The shaft is one of the most important parts of a stitching awl, which is made up of interchangeable needles. Compared to ordinary sewing needles, it features an eye piercing, the primary purpose of which is to help draw the thread right through the holes. Sometimes, it is called a sewing awl, specifically in relation to manual lockstitch sewing.

A stitching awl plays a very significant role in the job of leatherworkers and shoemakers or cobblers. They use this tool to create lock stitches. With the thread placed right into the eye, the needle is then pushed through the leather or any other material of similar nature. It functions like a small sewing machine.

This tool comes in different sizes and types, which depend mainly on the particular trade wherein such item is to be used. Besides making saddles and shoes, it is also used a lot in the printing trade, specifically for use in bookbinding.

In order to make small round holes on leather and other materials, simply push the tool right through the material. With the aid of its pointed rod, it functions like a hole punch, which prepares the leather for the process of stitching. This is usually done when making bags, belts and gloves.

In addition to the stitching awl, it is also quite interesting to learn about the other types of awls including the stabbing awl, which is also called a pricker, sailmaker’s awl or pegging awl. It is used to produce holes in sails. Other interesting types of awls include the scribe awl, the saddler’s awl and the bookbinder’s awl. For marking wood, the appropriate tool is the scratch awl, which is also referred to as the joiner’s awl or the clicker’s awl.

Halloween Costume Sizes

Monday, February 1st, 2010

Halloween costume sizes are divided into men, women, kids and teens, infants and plus sizes. The following is an overview of the figures used by costume makers.

Halloween Costume Measurements for Men

A lot of Halloween costumes are one size fits all. The one size fits all means the costume has a flexible waistband to adjust to the wearer’s figure. Usually, only the waist measurement is used in the costumes.

The small size is for those with 32 inch waists. The medium size is for those with 36 inch waists. The large size is for those with 38 inch waists. Those with 40 inch waists should go for extra large. The adult standard size is from 34 to 40 inches.

Halloween Costume Measurements for Women

The regular Halloween costume sizes can be worn by women who don 8 to 12 dress sizes. Women’s Halloween costume measurements are almost always determined by the dress size. The extra small are the 4-6 dress sizes. The 6 to 8 dress sizes are equal to small. The medium are for women who wear 8 to 10 dress sizes. The large is for the 12 to 14 dress sizes.

Halloween Costume Measurements for Children and Teens

The sizes considered standard for children are sizes 7 to 10. The small sizes are for 4-6 years of age; the medium are for 7-9 years and the large 10-13 years. Teen sizes are for 14-16 year olds.

Be aware that Halloween costume sizes for kids and teens may not be applicable at all times. Some children are very large or small for their age. Most teens over the age of 16 years will have to wear an adult costume. If your teen is as tall as you, get them an adult size outfit.

Note: sizes for infants and toddlers are based on their age. They are bunting (below six months), infant (6 months to 2 years) and toddler (2 to 4 years old). Again, get the larger size if you’re not sure.

Halloween Costume Measurements for Plus Sizes

The plus size for men is 42+ inch waist, and for women it is 14 to 18 dress size. Almost all online stores have plus for their Halloween costume sizes.

Tips

It’s much easier to shop for Halloween costumes online. You can go to several online stores and compare the sizes and the prices. Aside from the size, also think of the design and theme. Halloween costumes can be scary or sexy. Or they can be culled from historical figures, celebrities, comic book characters etc.

Once you have an idea of the costume, go to the Net and look for it. Shopping online is also cheaper (no gas, no parking etc.).

Don’t leave out the accessories. Whether you’re going to the party as a fairy or witch, bring along the wand, hat, jewelry etc. Since this only happens once a year, why not go all out?

If you’re not sure of the Halloween costume size for you, always go for the bigger one. As long as you’re comfortable with the design, look and fit, you’re good to go.

Socks Size

Sunday, January 31st, 2010

The standard wallpaper sizes are 520 mm (1ft 9 inches) for width and 10.05 m (33ft) for the length. That being said, there are still several things you need to do before you put the wallpaper on.

Measure, then Buy

It’s much better this way. You only need to go to the store once. You also save on time, money and you don’t have to worry about the pattern not being right. Take all the time necessary to measure the wall, and then get the materials.

How to Measure the Wall

Use a measuring tape to determine the height of the room. If you’re going to use wallpaper with patterns, add the pattern repeat dimensions to the figure. This is necessary for matching.

Note the number down. To get the wallpaper size right, divide the roll length with this figure. This enables you to determine the total full height drops you can slice from the roll. Round the figure off to a whole number.

How to Measure Room Width

Measure the room’s width in its entirety. Some ignore the gaps for the windows (this usually isn’t done with expensive wallpapers). When you get the total, divide it using the width of the roll. This is necessary to determine the required wallpaper widths.

Next, divide the figure by the number of full drops you obtain for each roll. Using this method helps you find the right wallpaper size and the rolls needed.

Measuring Wallpaper for Ceilings

Begin by determining how many roll widths can be put in the ceiling. Now get the length of the paper needed for the room’s other axis. Multiply the figures you get by 2. Take the result and divide it by the roll’s length. The result is the number of rolls you’ll need. Using this technique you might have lengths fused in the center of the ceiling.

Tips and Warnings

Double check your measurements before you make your purchase. Even if you have the right figures, give room for errors. You might have the wallpaper size correct but you’ll need that extra for the trimming and going around doors and windows.

Use the following as a guide: a room 2-2.25 m high measuring 10 m around the walls needs 5 rolls. Rooms 2.5-2.75 m high with 11 m measurements around the walls need 7 rolls. A room of the same height but with measurements around the walls of 13 m needs 8 rolls.

A room 3-3.25 m high (measurement around walls 14 m) needs 10 rolls. If the measurement is 16 meters, it needs 11 rolls. If the room is 3.5-3.75 m high with measurements of 16 m, a dozen rolls are required.

While the dimensions are important, don’t lose sight of the design. There are several things you need to focus on so make sure you have the time.

After you get the right wallpaper size, you can proceed to install them. Make sure you align them according to the measurements you made. This ensures the layout will be correct.

Raincoat Size Chart

Thursday, January 28th, 2010

A water-resistant coat that is used to protect a person from rain, a raincoat have various styles and designs. Some of the popular manufacturers of the garment are the MacKintosh, Burberry and Barbour. Raincoats have various types, which include the trench coat, the Driza-Bone and the waxed jacket. Most manufacturers of modern raincoats use high quality materials when making the garments. Below are the details included in a raincoat size chart.

The Different Sizes of Raincoats

The sizes of children raincoats are 1T, 2T, 3T, 4T, 5T and 6T. The height of 1T is 40.5 centimeters while the width is 35 centimeters. The height of 2T measures 46 centimeters and the width measures 35 centimeters. 3T raincoats have a width of 38 centimeters and a height of 49 centimeters. The heights of 4T and 5T raincoats are 52 centimeters and 55 centimeters while the widths are 38 centimeters and 42 centimeters. Finally, the height of 6T 63 centimeters and the width is 46 centimeters.

The available sizes for youth raincoats are double extra small, extra small, small, medium, large and extra large. The equivalents of double extra small are sizes 3 and 4 while the extra small equivalents are 5 and 6. The equivalents of small are 7 and 8 while the equivalents medium are 10 and 12. The size equivalents of large and extra large are 14 and 16 as well as 18 and 20.

Additional Information and Other Important Details

The popular Mackintosh raincoats are made from rubberized cloth. To make the products more popular, Mackintosh collaborated with international brands including Louis Vuitton and Gucci. Aside from Mackintosh, Gannex is another popular product. Gannex merchandises are worn by Himalayan climbers as well as Antarctic and Arctic explorers.

Another type of raincoat is the waxed jacket. This merchandise uses waxed cotton cloth. The popular companies that make this item are Belstaff, J. Barbour and Sons as well as Puffa. The merchandise can be used in doing exciting activities like hunting, fishing and shooting.

Trench coat is a very popular kind of raincoat. It is made from high quality materials like leather, wool gabardine and cotton drill. To keep the wearer warm during rainy days, the coat has an insulated lining. To attract consumers, some manufacturers use high quality fiber like microfiber to make the coat. Finally, Sou’wester is another type of coat that is used to repel water. The materials used in the coat is flexible and waterproof. Moreover, the raincoat features a neckstrap that protects the neck from strong winds.

Gloves Dimensions

Wednesday, January 27th, 2010

Getting the proper glove sizes is critical particularly for those using it for work or keeping warm. The sizes provided below are a general guide. Due to differences in the way gloves are made, the “large” size in company A and company B will not be the same.

Sizes for Gloves and Mittens

Note: the hand circumference here is measured in inches. These sizes are for unisex. Size XXS is 6.5; size XS is 7 and S is 7.5. Size M is 8.5, size L is 9 and XL is 9.5. The XXL size is 10 and XXXL is 11.

For women’s sizes XS is 6, S is 6.3, M is 7, L is 7.5 and XL is 8. The glove sizes for kid gloves and mittens are as follows: XXS for 6 months to 1 year, XS for 1 to 2 years of age, S for 2 to 3 years and M for 3 to 4 years.

L is for 4 to 5 years and XL for those 5 to 6 years. The men’s glove dimensions are as follows: XS is equal to 7 inches (18 cm), S is 7 ½ to 8 inches (20 cm) and M is 8 1/2 to 9 (23 cm). L is 9 ½ to 10 (25 cm); XL is 10 ½ to 11 inches (28 cm) and XXL is 11 ½ to 12 (30 cm).

How to Find Your Glove Size

Get a tape measure and stretch out your hand. You need to measure from the top of the middle finger to the bottom of the hand. If you’re right handed, measure from the right hand, and vice versa. The result is the glove you need. Almost always the measurements are in inches.

Terminology

If you’re shopping for gloves you may run across the following terms.

Cabretta: this is leather comprised of sheep’s hair. Capeskin is a thin leather made from South African sheep.

The clute cut refers to a glove without a seam down the finger base. The seams are at the inside fingers. When looking for glove sizes, you might hear the word gusset. That refers to the leather sewn between the fingers.

The welt is the leather sewn at the seam to fortify. The gauntlet is the term used to describe a cuff along the forearm. The Gunn cut is a glove style fitted with seams by the finger base. In glove making, the grain refers to the leather with hair.

Tips and Warnings

Gloves today are available in a variety of fabrics. This is particularly important if you plan to use the gloves daily. Heavy duty work requires heavy duty type gloves. The quality of the gloves is of course essential.

If you have sensitive skin, you should examine the glove’s material first. Also keep in mind that some sizes are specified only in letters or centimeters.

Both the glove size and the material need to be addressed before you buy. No matter what you’re going to use them for, your comfort level is the most important thing.

Wardrobe Dimensions

Wednesday, January 27th, 2010

Also referred to as armoire in French, a wardrobe is defined as a standing closet, the primary purpose of which is to store clothes. Earlier in history, it came in the form of a chest, which later on was modified to accommodate the many different clothes of nobles and royal families living inside castles and regal palaces. The modern version comes in various sizes. Furthermore, there are other interesting things to learn about it including the different wardrobe dimensions.

The Dimensions of a Wardrobe

The sizes of wardrobes vary depending on the different designs created by manufacturers. For instance, the Double Wardrobe Beech and Mirror Door from Accent measures 83.15 inches high, 35.43 inches wide and 23.19 inches deep. Meanwhile, Baby Weavers has released the product called the Arabella 4-Drawer Wardrobe Beech. It measures 78.74 inches high, 33.46 inches wide and 19.69 inches deep.

Aside from these items, there is also the Arabella 2-Door Wardrobe, the height of which is 65.35 inches, the length is 33.46 inches and the width is 19.69 inches. For the Elaine Natural Beech Wardrobe, the height is 59.06 inches, the width is 32.28 inches and the depth is 18.11 inches. The dimensions of the Cecilia 2-Door Antique Pine Wardrobe are 33.46 inches long, 19.69 inches wide and 65.35 inches high. The measurements of most of the other wardrobes are close to these measurements.

Additional Facts and Other Interesting Details

In the U.S., the use of wardrobe can be traced all the way back to the early parts of the 17th century. It was then designed as an oak hanging cupboard, which was movable. Later on, it was imported to England, which during that time has limited woodlands. After some time, the use of oak for making furniture was replaced by walnut. During the 18th century, the tallboy became very popular as storage for clothes.

A good-sized wardrobe is measured using the simple method referred to as the eight small men. Using this, a good wardrobe can be determined by knowing whether it can hold a total eight small adult individuals. The modern form of the wardrobe was developed only in the 19th century. On every side, a hanging cupboard can be found. Beautiful wardrobes are made from finely grained woods such as satinwood as well as mahogany.

The tallboy is quite interesting. This type of furniture combines a wardrobe at the top part with chest of drawers below. On the other hand, a lowboy is a set of drawers that is as high as a standard table. This type of wardrobe became very popular in various places for numerous centuries.

G String Sizes

Tuesday, January 26th, 2010

Measurements for g-string sizes are usually the same as those used with the thong. The following are the standard sizes in the US, UK and other countries.

G-String Measurements

The sizes are XSmall, small, medium, large, Xlarge and XXlarge. In the UK, the Xsmall size is 8. In the United States it is 4; in the EU it is 34 and in France it is 36. In Italy the Xsmall size is size 40 and in Australia it is size 8.

The small size is 10 n the UK, 6 in the United States, 36 in the EU and 38 in France. The equivalent in Italy is 42 and in Australia it is 10. The medium g-string size is 12 in the UK, 8 in the United States, 38 in the EU and 40 in France. In Italy it is size 44 and in Australia it is size 12.

The large size is 14 in the UK, 10 in the United States and 40 in the EU. In France it is 42, in Italy it is 46 and in Australia it is 14. The XLarge is 16 in the UK, 12 in the US and 42 in the EU. It is size 44 in France, 48 in Italy and 16 in Australia. XXLarge is 18 in the UK, 14 in the United States and 44 in the EU. The equivalent is 46 in France, 50 in Italy and 18 in Australia.

Other designers use different measurements to get g-string sizes. The Annie l’String of Ft. Lauderdale determines the size by the stitches up the back, up and across the front. Their measurements are 14, 28, 26 for large, 13, 26, 24 for medium and 12, 24, 24 for small.

The mini size is 10, 20 and 24. The micro size is 8, 16, 24 and the pico is the smallest at 6, 12 and 18. Again, the sizes here are evaluated up front, across front and up the rear.

Construction

G-strings are made out of leather, plastic or other fabrics. In crochet g-strings, the mesh can be either opaque or transparent. Some are plain see-through while others become see through when wet. G-string sizes rarely have an effect on the tie design.

Some are elastic, but others require the g-string to be tied on both sides. The g-string’s basic design consists of a piece of material that conceals the sex organs and fits between the buttocks.

The size of the back section differs. In some cases it disappears within the buttocks; in others it is more visible. The most significant difference between male and female g-strings is that there is a vertical seam in men’s designs.

G-string and Thong

The two are interchanged with one another very often. However the g-string is actually a variant of the thong. Aside from the g-string other types of thong include the T-back, V-string and the C-string.

The g-string sizes mentioned earlier are the most common but not the only ones. Other countries may sell them using different measuring scales.

Towel Size Guide

Tuesday, January 26th, 2010

For towels, the concept of ‘one size fits all’ does not apply fully. The usual towel collections are composed of different sizes to perfectly fit your budget, space, and personal choice. It is ideal that each member of the household must have a set of towel collection that composed of three different sizes – wash, hand, and bath. And you must have some extra set of towel for the use of your guests as well. Here are the standard towel sizes that you can adhere to when buying towels.

Sizes

The standard towel size of bath towels is about 27 inches by 52 inches. Bath towels are do-it-all towels and essential for drying your body after a bath or shower.

The standard towel size of hand towels is about 16 inches by 30 inches. Hand towels are use regularly for the purpose of drying your hands each time you wash.

The standard towel size of wash towels is about 13 inches by 13 inches. Wash towels are little square towels that you can use whether inside or outside the shower when washing your body, face, and hands.

The standard towel size of bath sheets is about 35 inches by 60 inches. Bath sheets are more of oversized bath towels that you can use if you want more coverage after taking a bath or shower.

The standard towel size of fingertip towels is about 11 inches by 18 inches. Fingertip towels are a little bit smaller in size compared to hand towels. They are rectangular towels that are commonly use in bathrooms for guests to replace the usual hand towels.

The standard towel size of tub mat is about 27 inches by 52 inches. Tub mats are very absorbent towels that are usually place outside the shower or tub enclosure to stop the flooring of the bathroom from getting wet.

The standard towel size of beach towels is 30 inches by 60 inches. Beach towels are slightly bigger than bath towels and its main purpose is to furnish a sufficient area on the ground for a person to lie on to get some tan or just to relax.

The standard towel size of sports towels is 20 inches by 40 inches. Sports towels are very absorbent towels that athletes usually use to clear off all the water from their body. When the towel already gets too wet, they just squeeze the water out of it and use the towel again to dry up.