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Useful Measurements

Measurements

One of the most important measurements for musical instruments is the body length. This can be easily determined by using a tape measure to get the length of the back not including the button. You will find that you have to measure slightly off-centre, from a point just beside the button. Violins, cellos and double basses are broadly graded into fractional sizes, although there are no definite standards so measurements may vary between makers. Fractional sizes are not used for violas which are only described by their body lengths (often expressed in inches).


Body length

Violin

Cello

Double Bass

Full size or 4/4

356mm

756mm

1110mm

7/8

345mm

720mm

 

3/4

330mm

690mm

1050mm

1/2

308mm

655mm

1000mm

1/4

280mm

610mm

815mm

1/8

264mm

455mm

 

1/10

235mm

404mm

 

1/16

212mm

 

 

Measurements

Some other useful measurements that you may want to specify are:

Body stop - the distance from the bridge position (usually indicated by an imaginary line between the inside nicks of the f-holes) to the top edge of the belly.

Neck stop - the distance from the top edge of the belly to the end of the fingerboard (not including the nut).

String length - the distance from the top edge of the bridge to the leading edge of the nut.



Bows are measured from end of tip to the end of the button. The length may vary between makers.


Bow length

Violin

Viola

Cello

Double Bass

Full size or 4/4

740mm

750mm

711mm

750mm

3/4

680mm

720mm

670mm

720mm

1/2

620mm

680mm

620mm

680mm

1/4

540mm

550mm

580mm

 

1/8

480mm

500mm

 

 

1/10

460mm

450mm

 

 

1/16

420mm

 

 

 


Another common parameter for bows is their overall weight, expressed in grams. The average weight of a violin bow is about 60 grams, viola bows around 70 grams and cello bows are about 80 grams. However, this is is only a rough guide and many fine bows may differ - obviously the most important aspect has more to do with balance and playability. Note also that these average weights apply to bows with hair; if your bow has the hair missing then the average weight will be reduced by approximately 5g, 6g or 7g respectively.

Finally, the shape of the stick (round or octagonal) can be specified. Some players may have a preference, but there are no rules about which is superior.