Short answer: Check whether the size chart describes the garment or the body. For a garment chart, measure a familiar shirt laid flat using the manufacturer's stated measuring points, then compare width and length in the same units. Do not substitute an age, gender or usual size for the wearer's choice.
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Identify what the chart measures
A flat garment width and a body circumference are different measurements. So are a shirt's length from a shoulder reference point and a person's height. Read the chart headings, diagram, units and any stated tolerances before comparing numbers. If the chart does not explain its measuring points, ask for clarification.
| Chart term | What to establish | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Flat chest width | Where to measure across the laid-flat shirt | Treating the width as a body circumference |
| Body chest circumference | How the manufacturer instructs the wearer to measure around the body | Comparing it directly with a flat shirt width |
| Body length / HPS | The specified high-point-shoulder reference and hem endpoint | Measuring from the neckline without checking the diagram |
| Size code | Exact style, fit and adult or youth range | Combining youth M and adult M in one row |
Measure a shirt the wearer already likes
- Choose a familiar shirt with the intended fit. Note whether it is a worn reference rather than a new garment.
- Lay it flat without stretching it. Smooth folds so they do not change the measurement.
- Measure width and length at the points used by the candidate style's chart.
- Write down the units. Convert deliberately if needed: one inch equals 2.54 centimetres.
- Compare both dimensions and the cut. Let the wearer choose; flag uncertainty before finalizing the order.
The BELLA+CANVAS 3001 specification provides one example of style-specific measurements, including chest and body length. Use the chart for the garment actually proposed for your order, since this example neither confirms ANCO availability nor substitutes for another style's chart.
Illustrative example: a 51 cm flat width
Compare like measurements
Illustrative example · Not a documented customer order
A wearer measures a favourite shirt at 51 cm across the chest. That is approximately 20.08 inches because 51 ÷ 2.54 = 20.08. The coordinator compares it with the candidate style's flat-width measurements, then checks length separately.
The 51 cm number is not the wearer's chest circumference. Doubling it gives an approximate circumference of that laid-flat garment, not a recommendation for body ease or a guaranteed size. If two candidates are close, their cut and the wearer's preference still matter.
Keep the style attached to the size
- Save the style reference and the chart used for the decision.
- Record fit range, colour and size together.
- Keep an unresolved choice pending instead of assigning a common size.
- Recheck the chart if the garment is substituted.
- Ask before assuming an unfamiliar garment will shrink into the preferred fit.
For custom T-shirt orders send confirmed choices with the garment reference. Use the group size CSV worksheet to collect them without merging different styles.
If the garment itself is undecided, compare fabric specifications. Once the size range is known, review print placement across those sizes.
Sources and scope
Manufacturer examples explain specific products and do not confirm ANCO stock, equipment or suppliers. ANCO reviews the proposed garment, artwork and order before confirming suitability.