What size violin will I need?

Violins come in 8 different sizes: 4/4 (also called full size), 3/4, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/10, 1/16. The 4/4 size is the biggest and the 1/16 size is the smallest. All adults, regardless of their size, use the 4/4 violin. This is also called a full size violin. Most children over the age of 12 will also play a 4/4 (full sized) violin.

Violin Sizing by Measurement

Children and small adults will need to take a measurement.

Let's get started!

• We first need a measurement from the neck to the wrist joint. With this we can estimate the proper size violin for you.
• Extend the arm so that it is perpendicular to the body.
• Measure the length from neck to the wrist joint.
• Measure the length from neck to the middle of the palm.
• Now match the measurement in inches to the chart below.

The correct size will be below the measurement.

Violin Sizing Chart

Violin Size	Length (in inches)
4/4 (Full Size)	23
3/4	22
1/2	20
1/4	18 1/2
1/8	16 1/2
1/10	15
1/16	14

Violin Sizes by Age

This is only meant as a guideline.

Violin Size	Age
4/4 (Full Size)	12 year and older
3/4	10-11
1/2	8-9
1/4	6-7
1/8	5-6
1/10	4-5
1/16	3 and below