Knitwear Sizing & Grading
Sizing is where fit lives — and knit behaves differently from woven. Here's how grading works and the knit-specific points that keep returns down.
Grading is how a single design becomes a full size run. You define a base size with its measurements, then grade up and down in consistent increments to create each size. For knitwear, the way the fabric stretches and recovers makes this its own discipline.
How grading works
From the base size, key points of measure — chest, length, sleeve, shoulder, cuff, hem — are scaled by a grade rule for each step. Consistent grading is what makes a size 'M' fit like an M across every style.
What's different about knit
- Stretch & recovery. Rib and many structures stretch, so the relaxed and stretched measurements both matter — specify which you mean.
- Tolerances. Knit relaxes and moves more than woven; realistic tolerances avoid needless rejects (see QC).
- Structure affects fit. A ribbed body hugs; a links-links or jersey body drapes. Fit is a function of structure as much as measurement.
Regional size standards
EU, UK, US and Asian sizing differ — the same body maps to different size labels by market. Decide your target market's standard early, and label accordingly (it ties into labelling).
Prove the grade with a size set. Beyond the base-size fit sample, a size set (a sample in several sizes) confirms the grade holds across the run before bulk — cheap insurance against a fit problem at scale.
Get the fit right with us
Send your graded spec, or your base measurements and target market, and we'll advise tolerances and grading suited to the knit structure — then confirm it through fit samples. Request a quote.
Ready to make it?
Send a tech pack, a reference garment or a brief. We respond within one business day with a capacity check, indicative pricing and a sample timeline — direct with the founder.