Measurements

Before cutting your fabric, you need to take measurements.  The diagram below shows the relevant measurements.  To simplify matters, all measurements are represented by coloured arrows / fonts throughout this post.

Body Measurements

Basically, there are 3 cutting methods:

Circular:

• full-circle
• half-circle
• 3-piece circle

Triangular:

• 2-piece
• 3-piece

Trapezoid:

• the narrower end of the trapezoid is dependent on the size of neckline

6 cutting methods are represented by diagram below.  Refer coloured fonts with diagram of 'Body Measurements' above.

Cutting Method	Measurements	Fabric Type
	(shoulder slope +1/2 neck circumference +length from shoulder) x 2	without nap reversible irreversible non-directional pattern
	Center piece: width = shoulder width length = length from nape x 2 Side pieces: width = length from shoulder length = length from nape x 2	without nap reversible irreversible non-directional pattern
	(1/2 neck circumference + shoulder slope  +length from shoulder) x 2	with/without nap reversible irreversible non-directional pattern
	1/2 neck circumference + shoulder slope + length from shoulder	without nap reversible irreversible (multiple of 4's non-directional pattern
	1/2 neck circumference + shoulder slope + length from shoulder	without nap reversible irreversible non-directional pattern
	shoulder slope + length from shoulder Total number of <==> = circumference of final neckline	without nap reversible irreversible non-directional pattern

Measuring Hood Opening

Below are pictures of hoods to give you an idea of how they look like with different-sized openings:-

Very large and roomy.

Small neckline pleated for comfort.

Pleats at neckline for fullness.

Curved hood opening for turn-back style.

Construction Tip:

• Assemble cloak / cape and adjust neckline to finished size including gathers if any before cutting the hood.  
• Don garment and drape a towel over your head to the preferred size of opening from the cape / cloak neckline.  

This method gives a closer measurement to your preferred size of opening rather than using a measuring tape.  When in doubt, add extra inches; especially if you want to make a gathered hood for extra fullness.