Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I have to be in my underwear?

In order for the bodyscanner™ to capture accurate measurements all clients are asked to undress to their undergarments. Doing so insures that no extra volume will be added to the body scanner’s calculations.

Why do I have to wear a scan cap?

By wearing a scan cap we are able to minimize the volume of hair as much as possible. In turn, this allows the body scanner to give a more accurate reading of body fat percentage.

Why do you need to know whether I am male or female?

The range of numbers used to identify health risks in adults vary for both men and women. For this purpose, knowing the sex of a client is necessary to provide an accurate health assessment.

How accurate is the body scan process?

The measurements from the Bodyscanner™ are accurate to within 1/16th of an inch.

Why do I need to provide additional measurements for my myShape profile?

As a ready made apparel company, myShape™ requires different measurements in order to determine the appropriate sizing for their clients. Since partnering with myShape earlier this year Unique has made the appropriate modifications to the Bodyscanner™ to accommodate these differences. However, any Unique Patterns clients who have been scanned prior to January of 2008 or have purchased a Manual Measurement Kit will be asked to take some additional measurements in order to complete their myShape measurement profile. If you have any questions on how to take your measurements click here.

What is BMI?

BMI is a statistical measure of your body weight divided by the square of your height. The bodyscanner takes the required measurements needed to do this calculation.

What is the healthy range for BMI for me?

The generally accepted BMI ranges are:
Underweight: Below 18.5
Normal: 18.5 - 24.9
Overweight: 25.0 - 29.9
Obese: 30.0 and Above

What is Waist to Hip Ratio?

Waist to hip ratio provides information regarding the distribution of body fat to determine the relative accumulation of weight in the abdominal area.

What is the healthy range for Waist to Hip Ratio for me?

Standards for waist to hip ratio are:
For men: < or equal to 1.0
For women: < or equal to 0.8

How does the Bodyscanner calculate body fat percentage?

The Bodyscanner calculates body fat percentage using body density. Subjects enter a private scan chamber, lock the door behind them and undress down to their undergarments. Glasses as well as all jewelry are asked to be removed as they will compromise the body fat percentage if left on. A close-fitting cap is used to compress the hair to ensure accurate scanning of the head. The volume and weight of the subject are captured and used to calculate density. Once this number is derived the computer will automatically plug the numbers into a formula to calculate the body fat percentage.

What is the healthy range of body fat percentage for me?

Source: Adapted from research done by the Cooper Institute, Dallas, TX

How does the Bodyscanner compare to the Hydrostatic Test (underwater weighing) in obtaining body fat percentage?

Like the gold standard of hydrostatic testing, Bodyscanner percentage of body fat is calculated using body density. However, unlike hydrostatic testing, the Bodyscanner is able to capture the subjects body density in less than a minute, versus the hydrostatic method which requires the subject to sit on a scale in a tank of water, making sure they are completely submerged and have blown all the air out of their lungs.

How does the Bodyscanner compare to the bioelectrical impedance method in obtaining body fat percentage?

The bioelectrical impedance method is commonly used in many gyms and fitness centers to gauge body fat percentage. For this method, two conductors are attached to a person’s body and a small electrical current is sent through the body. The resistance between the conductors provides a measure of body fat. This method can be quite accurate however there are many variables that can affect the outcome of the body fat percentage, such as instrumentation, technical skill, prediction equation formulated to estimate the fat free mass. In addition, the amount of liquid a person has consumed before the test will have an effect on its accuracy. As electricity travels more easily through water, a person who has consumed a large amount of water before the test will measure as having a lower body fat percentage or vice versa.

How does the Bodyscanner compare to the skin fold caliper test in obtaining body fat percentage?

The skin fold caliper test takes measurements at various points on the body by pinching the skin, and pulling the fat away from the muscles and bones. The thickness of each pinch is plugged into a formula to determine the subcutaneous body fat level. Although this method is commonly used, it is important to note that the consistency of the measurements taken to calculate body fat percentage will impact the results of the test; therefore it is much harder for the caliper test to render accurate results each time.

How does the accuracy of the Bodyscanner percentage of body fat compare to all of the other methods mentioned above?

While there are numerous other methods to choose from cost and availability seem to naturally limit the field to three more popular methods; skin fold testing, Bodyscanner body fat percentage and bioelectrical impedance. The accuracy varies between these methods. Bodyscanner body fat percentage has approximately a 3 point margin of error for about 80% of the population, when compared to the Hydrostatic method. This is similar in accuracy to the bioelectrical impedance and is more accurate than skin fold testing.

What is the Guide to Fit?

The Guide to Fit is an educational booklet that gives you an understanding of the interaction between your body, your pattern and your fabric choice. We strongly recommend that you read it prior to making your first pattern purchase. It is also available in .pdf format here.

Can all the patterns designed by your partners, Simplicity and New Look, that I see in their pattern book be customized for me?

Only the patterns listed in the Unique printed material and on the Unique website can be customized. We add patterns throughout the year so watch our website for new additions.

Can you recommend a pattern?

We would be more than pleased to assist you in selecting a Unique Pattern. First, ask yourself the following questions: “What garment do I have the most trouble fitting?” “What style of garments do I prefer? Business, casual, dressy?” “What kind of garment do I wear the most?” With the answers to these questions, we can guide you to the most appropriate patterns. Also, we will be happy to show you how understanding your body shape will lead to better Unique Pattern choices. The Guide to Fit will also answer many of these questions.

What about ease?

Ease is drafted into all patterns. The pattern description gives the amount of ease at the applicable bust/waist/hip areas so you can make an informed decision based on your ease preferences. To learn more about your ease preferences, see the Guide to Fit.

How can I tell from the pictures on the Website what the design details are?

The written descriptions give design details and the line drawings are guides to help you envision the style of the garment. In the case where there seems to be a discrepancy, always follow the written description over the picture.

Why do different patterns seem to use the same line drawings?

Although the pictures look the same, there are differences in eases and design details. Unique Patterns also have different eases built into the armholes of jackets, blouses/dresses and sleeveless garments. Remember to read the pattern descriptions carefully.

When will I get my pattern?

Your initial pattern order will be shipped within six weeks from the date the order was placed. Subsequent orders should take approximately three to six weeks.

Why do you use such thick paper for your patterns?

Using heavier paper gives your pattern longevity and prevents it from wearing out as fast as tissue paper.

Why are there no pattern layouts, fabric requirements and notions included with the pattern?

Because the pattern is custom drafted, the minimum fabric requirements and optimal layout will change with each person’s pattern (so that is the reason that presently there are no layouts). You can find approximate yardage information by clicking on the .pdf link in the education section of the website. For the best layout and fabric usage, you might want to cut your pattern out and take the pieces with you to the fabric store or do a sample layout at home. The required notions can be found with the pattern description on the website but remember that these are suggestions only. The number of buttons down the front of a blouse may change with the length of your custom-fit pattern. It is always best to look your pattern over carefully before you go shopping.

What is the seam allowance?

The seam allowance on all Unique, Simplicity and New Look patterns is the traditional 5/8" (1.5 cm) seam allowance.

Are the customized patterns marked with darts, notches, dots, etc.., the same as a standard-sized commercial pattern? What about the written instructions?

Except that the pattern is uniquely customized for your exact body, you will find few differences between the custom pattern and standard sized patterns from the same company. All patterns come with standard instructions.

I have trouble fitting my..... will your patterns take this into account? OR I'm a size ? on top and a size ? on bottom. Will your patterns take this into account?

Yes, Unique Patterns are custom fit and based on individual measurements (size is not an issue). However, to get the best fit possible, we also believe that understanding and being educated on how to read the pattern descriptions and the concept of “wearing ease” will also improve the chances of you being satisfied with your custom-fit Unique Pattern.

I am exceptionally large busted. Is that a problem?

No, bust darts will be added to your patterns to ensure the patterns to fit you better.

What if I gain or lose weight?

Typically, only a few measurements fluctuate with weight changes (e.g. waist, hips or bust). Meanwhile, your posture, height, leg length and shoulder slope remain relatively the same. All you need to do is re-check your measurements and send those which have changed to us. There is a minimal charge for this update. Please call Client Services at 1-800-543-4739 for more information.

What if I'm wearing a brace/colostomy bag/insulin pump?

Anything that is worn beneath the clothing should remain on the body to ensure the fit of your patterns. Make sure that the Unique Representative is aware of your device.

I have a curvature of the spine, what will be done for me?

Please speak with a Unique Representative to ensure your curvature of the spine is noted so that we can ensure this is considered in the drafting of your patterns.

What do I do if my pattern does not fit?

Please contact Client Services at 1-800-543-4739 or email us at clientservices@uniqueltd.com with specific details of your fit issues. Our consultants will be glad to assist you.