Violin Sizing Guide & Measurements

What Size Violin Do I Need? How to Measure a Violin

Measuring a Violin - Correct Size

Measuring the correct size violin, viola, or cello is straightforward. If you haven’t already been advised which size you need, this short guide will help you choose the right instrument.

The difference in sizes may appear small — for example, a ¼ violin measures around 47cm, while a ½ size is only about 4cm longer — but even a small increase can make a noticeable difference to the player.

Using the wrong size instrument can cause the player to over-stretch or feel cramped. Either of these can make learning to play far more difficult and uncomfortable.

Most adults learning to play will usually need a full-size instrument, although it’s always worth checking if you’re unsure. For children, please follow the simple measurement steps below to find the most suitable size.

If you’re still uncertain after using this guide, please contact us. We’re always happy to help.

Just under the next size up?

If your child is only just below the measurement for the next size up, it can be tempting to choose the larger instrument.

However, it’s usually best to start with the smaller size and only move up once they are fully ready. Playing an instrument that is even slightly too large can restrict comfort and slow progress.

If the violin arrives and your child’s teacher recommends a different size, simply let us know and we’ll be happy to arrange a swap.

Hire a violin from our online store.

Violin SizeArm LengthAge (Guide Only)
1/16 Violin35.5cm or 14in3 to 5 Years Old
1/10 Violin38cm or 15in3 to 5 Years Old
1/8 Violin42cm or 16in3 to 5 Years Old
1/4 Violin47cm or 18.5in4 to 7 Years Old
1/2 Violin51cm or 20in6 to 10 Years Old
3/4 Violin56cm or 22in9 to 11 Years Old
4/4 Violin58.5cm or 23in11 Years Old +
Violin Measurement - What SIze?

How To Measure

Have the player extend their left arm completely straight (but not overextended) with no bend in the elbow or wrists.

  • Measurement 1 (neck to wrist) This indicates the most appropriate and comfortable size for the player.
  • Measurement 2 (neck to palm) This indicates the largest size the player could use.

Other Methods Of Measuring

If you already have a violin you can easily measure and check the size.If the violin is put in the playing position, then the violin scroll should sit in the middle of the palm of the left hand and the fingers be able to curl around the scroll.You can also simply measure the back of the violin body using the measurements table below.
Violin Size Curl Fingers Around Scroll

What Size Violin Do I Have? - Useful Violin Measurements


If you already have a violin, we have a useful list of measurements that will help you determine what violin size you have.

Violin SizeViolin Back LengthViolin Overall LengthBow Length
1/16 Violin209mm or approx. 8 inches36.8cm or 14.5in42.5cm or 16.75in
1/10 Violin230mm or approx. 9 inches40.6cm or 16in45cm or 17.5in
1/8 Violin255mm or approx. 10 inches43cm or 17in48.9cm or 19.25in
1/4 Violin280mm or approx. 11 inches48.25cm or 19in57.15cm or 22.5in
1/2 Violin310mm or approx. 12.2 inches52cm or 20.5in62.2cm or 24.5in
3/4 Violin335mm or approx. 13 inches53.3cm or 21in68.6cm or 27in
4/4 Full Violin356mm or approx. 14 inches60cm or 23.5in75cm or 29.5in
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