Instrument Sizing Guide
Find the perfect size instrument for your child
How to Measure for Violin Size
- Arm Length: Child extends left arm straight out to the side.
- Measure from neck base to palm center.
- Ensure natural standing posture.
- Record measurement in inches.
Violin Sizing Chart
| Arm Length | Violin Size | Typical Age |
|---|---|---|
| 14" - 15.5" | 1/16 | 3-4 years |
| 15.5" - 17" | 1/10 | 4-5 years |
| 17" - 18.5" | 1/8 | 4-5 years |
| 18.5" - 20" | 1/4 | 5-7 years |
| 20" - 22" | 1/2 | 7-9 years |
| 22" - 23.5" | 3/4 | 9-11 years |
| 23.5" + | 4/4 (Full) | 12+ years |
How to Measure for Viola Size
- Arm Length: Have your child extend their left arm straight out to the side.
- Measure from the base of their neck to the center of their palm.
- We offer 11" violas manufactured specifically for younger players.
- Consider hand size and finger strength as well.
Viola Sizing Chart
| Arm Length | Viola Size | Typical Age |
|---|---|---|
| 16" - 18" | 11" | 5-7 years |
| 18" - 20" | 12" | 7-9 years |
| 20" - 21.5" | 13" | 8-10 years |
| 21.5" - 22.5" | 14" | 9-12 years |
| 22.5" - 23.5" | 15" | 11-14 years |
| 23.5" - 24.5" | 15.5" | 13+ years |
| 24.5" - 25.5" | 16" | 14+ years |
| 25.5" - 26.5" | 16.5" | 15+ years |
| 26.5" + | 17" | Adults |
How to Measure for Cello Size
- Height: Measure standing straight.
- Arm Span: Measure fingertip to fingertip.
- Should fit comfortably between knees when seated.
- Tuning pegs at ear level when seated.
Cello Sizing Chart
| Height | Cello Size | Typical Age |
|---|---|---|
| 35" - 40" | 1/10 | 3-4 years |
| 40" - 44" | 1/8 | 4-6 years |
| 44" - 48" | 1/4 | 6-8 years |
| 48" - 52" | 1/2 | 8-11 years |
| 52" - 56" | 3/4 | 11-15 years |
| 56" + | 4/4 (Full) | 15+ years |
How to Measure for Double Bass Size
- Length: Measure your child's height in inches while standing straight.
- We offer 1/10 size basses for our youngest players (as young as 5 years old).
- Consider that bass requires significant physical strength and reach.
- The scroll should be approximately at the student's forehead when standing.
Double Bass Sizing Chart
| Height | Bass Size | Typical Age |
|---|---|---|
| 36" - 42" | 1/10 | 5-7 years |
| 42" - 48" | 1/8 | 7-10 years |
| 48" - 54" | 1/4 | 10-12 years |
| 54" - 60" | 1/2 | 12-14 years |
| 60" + | 3/4 | 14+ years |
📋 Important Notes:
Professional Consultation: These are general guidelines. For the best fit, we recommend visiting Atelier Fine Strings for a professional consultation. Every child is unique, and factors like hand size, finger length, and physical development should be considered.
Growth Considerations: Children grow quickly! It’s often better to size slightly smaller rather than too large, as a properly sized instrument will be easier to play and help develop proper technique.
Visit Us: Located at Atelier Fine Strings, we offer instrument trials and professional sizing consultations to ensure your child gets the perfect instrument for their musical journey!
