Real women come in all sizes and shapes.
We do not fit into pre-determined boxes.

PARK BENCH patterns come in one size and you add or decrease in the side seams for your measurements and desired amount of ease.  This is like making "doll clothes for big people".

I start with a standard size 14 sloper or block in the neck and shoulders. The average woman is 5'4" tall, weighs 140 lbs., is over 40 , and wears a size 14. In an unstructured design we vary only about 1/2" on each side in the width in our neck and shoulders.  All other sizing adjustments are done in the side seams and can be made as big or small as needed.

PARK BENCH patterns are designed to have at least 6" to 10" of side ease.  You need at least this amount for the garment to have soft movement.

The pattern gives you the actual measurement of the garment at the stitch line if no adjustments are made.  You measure yourself at hips and bust.  ADD 6" to 10" for ease to these measurements and compare to the pattern measurements.  Move pattern cut lines in or out as needed.  Just like a graded pattern but you do it for your measurements.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

1. Measure yourself at hips and bust.
2. Add 6" - 10" to these measurements.
3. Compare these to the pattern measurements.
4. Move pattern cut lines in or out as needed.
5. When in doubt - CUT BIG. In almost all of PARK BENCH patterns, the side seams are sewn last before finishing and you do a

Check neck width.  If pattern is too large, make smaller by adding to shoulder seams (toward neck) before cutting so opening is smaller. If there are set in sleeves, then measure your shoulder width (from neck opening to sleeve seam).  Check pattern.  If pattern width is too wide, fold pattern from shoulder to hem to remove extra width.

When widening side seams, also add more room to sleeves. Bust darts can also be added to most designs. (See individual pattern for more details.)