How to Measure Your Ring Size
Four simple methods to accurately measure your ring size at home. No special tools required — just follow our step-by-step guide.
Method 1: String or Paper Strip Method
Steps
- 1Cut a thin strip of paper or use a piece of non-stretchy string about 6 inches (15 cm) long.
- 2Wrap it snugly around the base of the finger you want to measure. It should be comfortable — not too tight, not too loose.
- 3Mark the point where the paper or string overlaps with a pen.
- 4Lay it flat and measure the length from the end to the mark in millimeters using a ruler.
- 5This measurement is your finger's circumference. Use our calculator to convert it to a ring size.
Pro Tips
- Use a strip about 5 mm wide for paper — too narrow and it can twist.
- Don't pull too tight. The strip should slide over your knuckle with slight resistance.
- Measure 3–4 times and take the average for best accuracy.
Method 2: Existing Ring Method
Steps
- 1Find a ring that fits the desired finger comfortably.
- 2Place the ring on a flat surface.
- 3Using a ruler with millimeter markings, measure the inside diameter of the ring (the straight-line distance across the inner edge).
- 4Note the measurement in millimeters.
- 5Enter the diameter into our calculator to find your ring size in any system.
Pro Tips
- Measure from the inside edges of the ring, not the outside.
- If the ring is not perfectly round, measure at the widest point and the narrowest point, then average the two.
- Alternatively, print our ring sizer and place the ring over the circles to find a match.
Method 3: Printable Ring Sizer Method
Steps
- 1Visit our Printable Ring Sizer page and print the page at 100% scale.
- 2Verify the scale by measuring the verification line with a ruler.
- 3If you have an existing ring, place it over the circles to find the matching size.
- 4If you don't have a ring, cut out the paper strip sizer and wrap it around your finger.
- 5The size indicated where the strip overlaps is your ring size.
Pro Tips
- Always print at 100% / Actual Size — never Fit to Page.
- Use a laser printer if possible for the most accurate results.
- Check the verification line before using the sizer.
Method 4: Online Calculator Method
Steps
- 1If you already know your size in one system (e.g., US, UK, EU), go to our Ring Size Calculator.
- 2Select the system you know from the dropdown.
- 3Enter or select your known size.
- 4Instantly see your equivalent size in all other systems worldwide.
- 5Note the diameter and circumference for reference when shopping internationally.
Pro Tips
- This method is best for converting between systems, not for first-time measurement.
- If you're unsure of your size, use one of the physical methods above first.
- Our calculator uses industry-standard conversion data used by professional jewelers.
General Measurement Tips
Measure Multiple Times
Take at least 3 measurements on different days and at different times. Average the results for the most accurate size.
Consider Width
Wider bands fit tighter than narrow ones. If you're getting a band wider than 6 mm, consider going up half a size.
Temperature Matters
Fingers swell in heat and shrink in cold. Measure at room temperature for the most reliable result.
When in Doubt, Size Up
It's easier and cheaper to make a ring slightly smaller than to enlarge it. A ring that's too tight is uncomfortable and hard to remove.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of day to measure ring size?
Measure your ring size at the end of the day, ideally in the evening. Fingers tend to swell throughout the day due to activity and temperature changes. Measuring in the evening gives you a size that will be comfortable all day long.
Should I measure my ring size when my hands are cold or warm?
Measure when your hands are at a normal, comfortable temperature. Cold fingers shrink and hot fingers swell. Avoid measuring after exercise, in very cold weather, or right after a hot shower. Room temperature is ideal.
What if my knuckle is bigger than my finger?
If your knuckle is significantly larger than the base of your finger, measure both the knuckle circumference and the finger base. Choose a size that's between the two measurements — the ring needs to slide over the knuckle but shouldn't spin freely on the finger.
How do I measure for a surprise engagement ring?
Borrow one of their rings (from the correct finger), trace the inside on paper, or press it into a bar of soap. You can also ask their friends or family, or use the string method while they're sleeping (carefully!). When in doubt, size up — it's easier to resize down.
Do fingers on your dominant hand tend to be larger?
Yes, typically fingers on your dominant hand are about half a size larger than the same finger on your non-dominant hand. Always measure the specific finger and hand you plan to wear the ring on.
How accurate are at-home ring size measurements?
At-home measurements using the methods described above are generally accurate within half a size. For the most accurate result, combine multiple methods and average the results. For expensive purchases, we always recommend confirming your size with a professional jeweler.
Ready to Convert Your Measurement?
Use our free calculator to convert your measurement into any ring size system worldwide.