How to Find Your Perfect Ring Size at Home: 5 Simple Methods That Actually Work

A hand model with several silver gothic rings on display.

There's nothing more disappointing than falling in love with a handcrafted ring online only to discover it doesn't fit when it arrives. Whether you're treating yourself to one of our artisan owl rings, eyeing a piece from our gothic jewelry collection, or dreaming about that turquoise statement ring from our turquoise jewelry collection, knowing your precise ring size is essential.

As someone who makes handcrafted silver rings every day, I can tell you that size truly matters when it comes to the perfect fit. Too loose, and your precious piece might slip off during your morning coffee run; too tight, and it'll leave an uncomfortable ridge on your finger (and nobody wants that).

So let's dive into five tried-and-true methods to determine your ring size from the comfort of your own home. No need to venture out to a jewelry store – we've got you covered with these DIY approaches!

Method 1: The Adjustable Ring Sizer (FREE!)

How to find your ring size using a ring sizer

If you're serious about your handcrafted jewelry collection, an adjustable ring sizer is a game-changer—and I'm offering one to you at virtually no cost!

How to get your ring sizer: Subscribe to my email list using the signup form below and immediately get a promo code for a free ring sizer! You'll get a professional-quality plastic ring sizer for FREE— simply add the promo code at checkout and just cover the cost of shipping! This ensures you'll get the perfect fit for your next handmade sterling silver jewelry purchase. If you later order a silver ring from me, I'll credit $5 towards your first jewelry purchase!

 


These plastic adjustable sizers can be used on any finger and will give you an exact size reading. I keep one in my jewelry box for whenever I'm shopping for new rings, and now you can too! Perfect for anyone who considers jewelry for self-expression an essential part of their style.

Method 2: The String Method

Based on my experience making hundreds of rings, this method offers a good balance of accuracy and convenience using materials you already have.

You'll need:

  • A piece of string, thread, or floss (non-stretchy)
  • Scissors
  • A ruler with millimeter measurements
  • A pen or marker

Steps:

  1. Wrap the string around the base of your finger where you'd wear the ring.
  2. Make sure it feels comfortable – not too tight or too loose (like a ring should fit).
  3. Mark the point where the string overlaps with your pen.
  4. Cut the string at that mark.
  5. Measure the length of the string in millimeters.
  6. Compare this measurement to a standard ring size chart (I've included one at the bottom of this post).

Pro tip: Your finger size fluctuates throughout the day! Try this method in the evening when your fingers are at their largest to ensure your ring won't be too tight. Also, be careful not to pull the string too tight when measuring – unlike your flexible string, a silver ring won't stretch around your finger.

Method 3: The Paper Strip Method

No string? No problem! This method uses everyday printer paper.

You'll need:

  • Paper
  • Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Pen

Steps:

  1. Cut a strip of paper about 1/4 inch (5-6 mm) wide and 4 inches (10 cm) long.
  2. Wrap it around your finger where the ring will sit.
  3. Mark where the paper overlaps.
  4. Measure the length from the beginning of the paper to your mark in millimeters.
  5. Use the same ring size chart to find your size.

Pro tip: Make sure your paper strip is no wider than the ring you plan to wear. Wider measuring strips can give you an inaccurate reading, especially for narrow rings! Also, don't pull the paper too tightly around your finger - remember that sterling silver doesn't stretch like paper does, so you want the measurement to be comfortable, not constricting.

Method 4: The Existing Ring Method

If you already own a ring that fits perfectly on the finger you're shopping for, this method is very accurate!

You'll need:

  • A ring that fits well
  • A ruler or printable ring sizer

Steps:

  1. Place your existing ring on a ruler.
  2. Measure the inside diameter in millimeters.
  3. Compare to the chart below to find your size.
  4. Alternatively, print a ring size guide with circles and place your ring over each circle until you find a perfect match.

(If you're shopping for someone else as a surprise gift, this method is particularly stealthy!)

Method 5: The Pen Trace Method

This method is simple, quick, and perfect for when you already have a ring that fits well.

You'll need:

  • A well-fitting ring
  • A piece of paper
  • A pen
  • A ruler with millimeter measurements

Steps:

  1. Place your ring on a piece of paper.
  2. Hold it firmly so it doesn't move.
  3. Trace the inside circle of your ring with a pen, trying to get as close to the inner edge as possible.
  4. Measure the diameter of the circle you drew in millimeters.
  5. Compare this measurement to the size chart below.

This method is great because it gives you a visual reference you can keep for future purchases!

Ring Size Chart

US Size Diameter (mm) Circumference (mm)
3 14.1 44.2
3.5 14.5 45.5
4 14.9 46.8
4.5 15.3 48.0
5 15.7 49.3
5.5 16.1 50.6
6 16.5 51.9
6.5 16.9 53.1
7 17.3 54.4
7.5 17.7 55.7
8 18.1 57.0
8.5 18.5 58.3
9 19.0 59.5
9.5 19.4 60.8
10 19.8 62.1
10.5 20.2 63.4
11 20.6 64.6
11.5 21.0 65.9
12 21.4 67.2
12.5 21.8 68.5

A Few Additional Tips From Your Friendly Neighborhood Silversmith

A hand wearing sterling silver Sonoran Gold turquoise rings.
  • Measure your finger 3-4 times to ensure accuracy. Our fingers change size throughout the day based on temperature, humidity, and even what we've eaten!
  • If you're between sizes, always size up for comfort, especially with wider bands.
  • Your dominant hand is typically slightly larger than your non-dominant hand.
  • If you're ordering a particularly wide band (>8mm), you will want to size up by a half size for comfort. Lucky for you, I always compensate for the width of my rings so they will always fit true to size!
  • Winter fingers and summer fingers can differ by up to a full size! Keep this in mind when ordering handmade sterling silver jewelry that you plan to wear year-round.

 

When In Doubt, Reach Out!

Still unsure about your size after trying these methods? Don't hesitate to contact me! As an artisan silversmith who makes every piece by hand, I'm happy to discuss sizing concerns before you place your order.

I want you to love your rings from our collection! After all, these aren't mass-produced trinkets – they're meticulously crafted jewelry pieces designed to be treasured for years to come. They should fit as perfectly as they were crafted.

Get Your Ring Sizer - Just Pay Shipping!

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Simply fill out the form below to get your promo code, enter the code at checkout, and I'll get your ring sizer in the mail right away!



Having an accurate ring sizer on hand means you'll never have to guess your size again when shopping for handcrafted silver rings or our turquoise rings. It's a small investment that will ensure every piece in your collection fits perfectly!

Happy measuring, and even happier ring shopping!

~ Erin at Silverthaw Jewelry


P.S. Did you use one of these methods to find your ring size and purchase a piece from my collection? I'd love to see how it fits! Tag me @silverthawjewelry on Instagram with your new treasure.