The "half-chest" or "across-chest" measurement
This standard reference relates to the width of the t-shirts or garments, not the body. The measurement is obtained by laying the t-shirt (hoodie, shirt or other top) flat on a desk or table. The garment is then measured across the front, side-seam to side-seam, from a point that's just a few centimetres below where the sleeve joins the body of the garment. A garment with a half or across-chest measurement of 50cm would be skin-tight on a person with a 100cm chest. Therefore, the half or across-chest measurement - when doubled - should be a few centimetres more than the person's actual chest measurement (depending on the desired fit).
Finding your size from the "half-chest" or "across-chest" measurement
Take a favourite-fitting garment, lay it flat, and measure across the front (~1cm below the armpit). Match this measurement to the "half-chest" or "across-chest" measurement for the garment you're interested in (on the product detail page). For cotton-rich and 100% cotton garments that are not pre-shrunk, allow 5-7% extra in the width for future shrinkage. This is especially important to consider for growing children. For pre-shrunk cotton rich garments, allow 1-3% for further shrinkage.
Comparing AU, EU and US sizes
Size scales can vary greatly between different manufacturers and countries of origin. The same is true of sizes from department stores and chain stores, which tend to be more generous these days, and designer labels which are often tiny by comparison. There is no legislated or universal standard. To make online shopping in our blank clothing store a little easier, sizes marked "AU" are roughly Australian standard. "EU" sizing tends to be smaller, and like "US" sizing for women, can be different to the numeric system common in Australia. Some sizes are expressed in years or age ranges, others by the chest measurement of the person they are designed to fit. Always check measurements for each size on the product detail page. If in doubt about any specifics, contact us before placing your order. Please note that we cannot exchange due to incorrect choice of size. If in doubt about specific sleeve widths or lengths, for example, contact us.
