To measure neck width seam to seam, you measure straight across the back of the garment at the natural shoulder line from one seam to the opposite seam.
This measurement is typically referred to as Back Neck Width (Seam to Seam). It provides a key dimension for understanding the fit and style of a garment's neckline.
Understanding the Measurement
The reference defines this measurement precisely:
Back Neck Width (Seam to Seam): Measure at the natural shoulder line at the collar/rib join seam (or neckline edge if there is no collar/rib) straight across to the opposite seam.
This means you locate the points where the neckline or collar/ribbing meets the shoulder seams on the back of the garment and measure the distance between these two points in a straight line.
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide
Measuring neck width seam to seam is straightforward if you follow these steps:
- Lay the Garment Flat: Place the garment (like a t-shirt, shirt, or sweater) face down on a flat, smooth surface. Ensure it is smoothed out without stretching the fabric.
- Identify the Measurement Points: Locate the seams where the shoulder meets the neckband, collar, or the garment body itself near the shoulder line. This is the "collar/rib join seam" or the "neckline edge if there is no collar/rib" at the "natural shoulder line".
- Position the Measuring Tape: Place the beginning of your measuring tape exactly at the seam point on one side of the neck.
- Measure Straight Across: Extend the tape straight across the back of the neck to the corresponding seam point on the opposite side.
- Record the Measurement: Note the measurement where the tape meets the seam on the other side. This is your Back Neck Width (Seam to Seam).
Key Considerations
- Natural Shoulder Line: The measurement is taken at the point where the shoulder seam intersects the neckline area.
- Collar/Rib Join vs. Neckline Edge: If the garment has a collar or neck ribbing, measure where that component joins the main body fabric at the shoulder seam. If there is no separate collar or ribbing (like a simple finished edge), measure directly from the finished edge at the shoulder seam.
- Straight Across: It's crucial to measure in a straight line, not following any curve of the neckband or fabric.
Measurement Details Summary
Here’s a summary of the Back Neck Width (Seam to Seam) measurement:
| Measurement Name | Starting Point | Ending Point | Direction | Location on Garment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Back Neck Width (Seam to Seam) | Seam where collar/rib joins body (or neckline edge) at one natural shoulder line | Seam where collar/rib joins body (or neckline edge) at the opposite shoulder line | Straight Across | Across the back neck |
This measurement is vital for garment specifications, pattern making, and quality control to ensure consistent sizing and fit, especially in the shoulder and neckline area.
