Enter your base-size measurements and grade rules to see a graded spec table across your size range, in inches or centimeters.
Grading is how a base-size pattern and spec become a full size run. This Apparel Search calculator applies the grade increments you enter to each point of measure, so you can draft a graded spec table quickly for a tech pack, a quote request or a conversation with your factory. Everything is calculated in your browser, and nothing you enter is saved.
Please read: this is a calculation aid, not a verified spec. The results are simple arithmetic on the numbers and grade rules you type in. Real garments can differ from these figures because of pattern grading software, marker making, fabric stretch and shrinkage, sewing variation, rounding, factory practice and how each point of measure is taken. Treat every result as an estimate and confirm against fit samples, measured samples and your factory's own grade rules before approving production.
Your garment
Points of measure
Enter each measurement the way you spec it (flat half-width or full circumference) and keep that consistent. Starter examples are illustrative only, not industry standards. Replace them with your own base measurements and grade rules. Leave "Grade smaller" blank to use the same increment in both directions.
Measurement
Base size (in)
Grade larger (in per size)
Grade smaller (in)
Tolerance ± (in)
Graded specs
Estimates only. Results are rounded for display and are not a substitute for grading software, fit approval or your factory's confirmation. Converting between inches and centimeters adds rounding too.
Why grading math matters
Faster tech packs. Set the grade rules once and see the whole size run instead of retyping every size.
Clearer factory conversations. A graded table with tolerances gives your supplier something specific to confirm or correct.
Catches odd jumps. If a size increases more than you expected, it shows up right away.
Limits to keep in mind. Grade rules differ by brand, fit, fabric and size range, and plus or junior ranges often use different increments. Every number comes from your inputs and from rounding. Switching units converts at 2.54 centimeters per inch. Finished-garment measurements are also affected by fabric, washing and construction. This tool cannot replace patternmaking software, a patternmaker's judgment or a fit session.
Estimates only. This tool is provided for general planning and informational purposes. Results depend on the information you enter and on assumptions that may not match your situation. Apparel Search does not guarantee accuracy or completeness of any result. Confirm all measurements with your factory, patternmaker or other qualified professionals before making production decisions. See our Legal page for terms of use.
How to grade a garment spec across sizes
Choose inches or centimeters and enter your size range and base size.
List each point of measure with its base-size measurement, grade increment and tolerance.
Set separate increments for sizes below the base size if they differ, and choose how to round the results.
Review the graded table, then download it for your tech pack or factory.
How grading is calculated, with an example
Formula. A graded measurement = base measurement + (number of sizes from the base x grade increment). Sizes smaller than the base subtract the increment, and you can set a different increment for smaller sizes.
Example. A T-shirt chest width of 20 in at size M with a grade of 2 in per size gives S 18, M 20, L 22, XL 24 and 2XL 26. With a tolerance of plus or minus 1/2 in, a finished L measuring anywhere from 21 1/2 in to 22 1/2 in is within spec. The numbers are examples only. Use your own grade rules.
Key terms
Point of measure (POM): a specific place on a garment that is measured, such as chest width or sleeve length.
Base size: the size that the spec and pattern are first developed in, also called the sample size.
Grade rule: the amount a measurement changes from one size to the next.
Tolerance: the allowed plus or minus difference between a measured garment and its spec.
Flat measurement: a measurement taken with the garment laid flat, which is half of the full circumference.
HPS: high point shoulder, a common starting point for length measurements.
Getting the most from the Size Grading Calculator
Measure the same way every time. Keep flat or full-circumference measurements consistent across all sizes.
Grade rules are not universal. They vary by brand, fit and size range, and plus or junior ranges often use different increments.
Set tolerances with your factory. A tolerance is the allowed difference between the spec and the measured garment.
Confirm with a sample. A graded table is a starting point, and fit approval decides whether the garment works.
Frequently asked questions
What is garment grading?
Grading is the process of scaling a base-size pattern or spec to the other sizes in a size range by adding or subtracting set amounts at each point of measure.
What is a grade rule?
A grade rule, or grade increment, is how much a measurement changes from one size to the next, for example 2 inches more chest width per size.
Why do tolerances matter?
A tolerance is the plus or minus variation allowed when a finished garment is measured against its spec. Agreeing tolerances with your factory avoids disputes at inspection.