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| Meta Title | How to Measure Arm Length: 10 Steps (with Pictures) - wikiHow |
| Meta Description | Whether you need your arm length for fitness-related reasons or to take your sleeve size, all you need is a tape measurer. As long as you know which points to record, you can easily take the measurement without a seamstress or tailor. If... |
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| Boilerpipe Text | Download Article
Download Article
Calculating Arm Length
|
Measuring Arm Span
|
Video
|
Expert Q&A
|
Things You'll Need
Whether you need your arm length for fitness-related reasons or to take your sleeve size, all you need is a tape measurer. As long as you know which points to record, you can easily take the measurement without a seamstress or tailor. If possible, have a partner help you with these measurements to avoid an inaccurate reading. With the right positioning, you can finish measuring your arm length in a matter of minutes.
Although you can measure your arm length on your own, you will get a better measurement if you have a partner who can take it for you. Avoid hunching forward or leaning as much as possible, as either may skew your measurement.
[1]
Keep your arms slightly bent, with your fingers in your pockets.
Position the measuring tape exactly in the center of your neck to get the most accurate measurement.
[2]
Taking your measurements over the shoulder and down the hand will give you a precise reading, particularly if you are measuring your arm length for clothing.
[3]
Advertisement
Do not go measure down your back, as you will want to get the fullest arm length possible. Instead, go across your shoulder and down your arms. If you're not sure how to take this measurement, think about what a long-sleeved shirt seam will look like—this is approximately the length you will measure.
If you're taking sleeve measurements, finish measuring where you would like the sleeve or shirt cuff to sit. This should be around or just past your wrist bone, depending on how long you prefer your sleeve length to be.
[4]
Consider adding just a little extra to this length for shirt sleeves. That way, when you reach forward, your sleeves won't ride up on your arms.
[5]
If you're measuring for a coat, measure to the point where your wrist starts to widen into your thumb, and do not add any extra.
[6]
If you're measuring arm length for fitness-related reasons, you may need to measure past your wrist. Measure all the way to your fingertips, stretching out your fingers as far as possible.
[7]
Paula J. Myers-McDevitt, Apparel Industry Veteran and Technical Design Authority
Properly measuring arm length requires careful technique. Have the subject stand with arms relaxed at their sides. Use a flexible tape measure placed at the shoulder point down to the wrist bone, keeping the tape close to the skin. Mark key landmarks like the elbow for accurate results. Repeat for consistency and note measurements on both arms — they may differ slightly. Precise arm length data allows for well-fitted clothing and equipment design suited to a range of body sizes.
Advertisement
While you can measure your arm length on your own, you cannot measure your arm span by yourself. Ask a partner to hold the measuring tape while you position yourself to get a precise arm span.
Standing at your fullest height will allow your partner to take the best reading possible, as slouching can inhibit your arm span. If you cannot turn your back to a wall, stand up as straight as possible and avoid hunching your shoulders.
[8]
Avoid bending your arms or your fingers. Try to keep your arms level and even, as raising or lowering your arms can also decrease your full arm span.
[9]
Traditionally, arm span is measured between the middle finger of one hand to middle finger of your other hand. Have your partner take a measuring tape and measure from the tip of your middle finger on your left hand to the middle finger on your right hand.
[10]
Ask your partner to keep the tape measurer even to keep the measurement accurate.
Most people's heights are about equal to their arm spans, within a few inches or centimeters. Measure your height
by yourself
or
with a partner
to compare the two measurements.
[11]
Advertisement
Search
Add New Question
Question
How do you measure sleeves?
David Pew is a Professional Tailor based in Seattle, Washington. He owns his own tailoring business, Sew Generously, which he founded in 2013. With over 15 years of experience, David specializes in bespoke tailoring and alterations. He uses his experiences, skills, and eye for detail to produce the highest quality of products. David believes in creating garments with the finest materials that are built to last, and is a dedicated craftsman. Through Sew Generously’s website, David runs a blog, Stitching Confidential, where he writes on different topics in the tailoring, fashion, and art worlds. The business also hosts Sew Generously Galleries, quarterly art shows where they invite local artists to display their art, host workshops, and perform for the community at their shop. David received a BA in German and French from Western Washington University.
Professional Tailor
Expert Answer
Start by measuring from the nape of the neck, down across the point of the shoulder, and then down the arm to where the sleeves should hit. If you're measuring for a shirt, be a little generous with that, because your sleeves will ride up when you reach forward. If you're measuring for a coat, stop at the fleshiest part of the thumb, and don't add any extra.
Ask a Question
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Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
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Video
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Things You'll Need
Tape measure
References
About This Article
Article Summary
X
To measure your arm length, start by standing up straight with your arms relaxed at your sides. Next, place one end of a measuring tape at the center of the back of your neck, then across the top of your shoulder and down the length of your arm. If you’re taking a sleeve measurement, take the measurement just past your wrist bone. For a full arm length measurement, run the tape all the way to your fingertips, making sure to stretch out your fingers.
For more tips, like how to measure your arm span, read on!
Did this summary help you?
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 263,257 times.
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# [How to Measure Arm Length](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length)
[ Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length)
**Co-authored by** [David Pew](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew)
[Last Updated: February 24, 2025](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length) [Fact Checked](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length)
[ Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length)
- [Calculating Arm Length](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#Calculating-Arm-Length)
- [Measuring Arm Span](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#Measuring-Arm-Span)
- [Video](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#Video)
- [Expert Q\&A](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#qa_headline)
- [Things You'll Need](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#thingsyoullneed)
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This article was co-authored by [David Pew](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew). David Pew is a Professional Tailor based in Seattle, Washington. He owns his own tailoring business, Sew Generously, which he founded in 2013. With over 15 years of experience, David specializes in bespoke tailoring and alterations. He uses his experiences, skills, and eye for detail to produce the highest quality of products. David believes in creating garments with the finest materials that are built to last, and is a dedicated craftsman. Through Sew Generously’s website, David runs a blog, Stitching Confidential, where he writes on different topics in the tailoring, fashion, and art worlds. The business also hosts Sew Generously Galleries, quarterly art shows where they invite local artists to display their art, host workshops, and perform for the community at their shop. David received a BA in German and French from Western Washington University.
This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.
This article has been viewed 263,257 times.
Whether you need your arm length for fitness-related reasons or to take your sleeve size, all you need is a tape measurer. As long as you know which points to record, you can easily take the measurement without a seamstress or tailor. If possible, have a partner help you with these measurements to avoid an inaccurate reading. With the right positioning, you can finish measuring your arm length in a matter of minutes.
## Steps
Method 1
Method 1 of 2:
### Calculating Arm Length
[ Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length)
1. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-1.jpg)
1
**Stand up straight with your arms relaxed and at your sides.** Although you can measure your arm length on your own, you will get a better measurement if you have a partner who can take it for you. Avoid hunching forward or leaning as much as possible, as either may skew your measurement.[\[1\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-1) X [Trustworthy Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health [Go to source](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length)
- Keep your arms slightly bent, with your fingers in your pockets.
2. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-2.jpg)
2
**Place one end of a measuring tape at the base of your neck.** Position the measuring tape exactly in the center of your neck to get the most accurate measurement.[\[2\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-2)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [David Pew Professional Tailor](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew) Expert Interview Taking your measurements over the shoulder and down the hand will give you a precise reading, particularly if you are measuring your arm length for clothing.[\[3\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-3) X Research source
Advertisement
3. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-3.jpg)
3
**Measure your arm over the shoulder and down your arm.** Do not go measure down your back, as you will want to get the fullest arm length possible. Instead, go across your shoulder and down your arms. If you're not sure how to take this measurement, think about what a long-sleeved shirt seam will look like—this is approximately the length you will measure.
4. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-4.jpg)
4
**Take your measurements to the area just past your wrist bone for clothing.** If you're taking sleeve measurements, finish measuring where you would like the sleeve or shirt cuff to sit. This should be around or just past your wrist bone, depending on how long you prefer your sleeve length to be.[\[4\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-4)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [David Pew Professional Tailor](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew) Expert Interview
- Consider adding just a little extra to this length for shirt sleeves. That way, when you reach forward, your sleeves won't ride up on your arms.[\[5\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-5)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [David Pew Professional Tailor](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew) Expert Interview
- If you're measuring for a coat, measure to the point where your wrist starts to widen into your thumb, and do not add any extra.[\[6\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-6)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [David Pew Professional Tailor](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew) Expert Interview
5. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-5.jpg)
5
**Continue measuring to your fingertips if measuring your full arm length.** If you're measuring arm length for fitness-related reasons, you may need to measure past your wrist. Measure all the way to your fingertips, stretching out your fingers as far as possible.[\[7\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-7) X Research source

Paula J. Myers-McDevitt, Apparel Industry Veteran and Technical Design Authority
Properly measuring arm length requires careful technique. Have the subject stand with arms relaxed at their sides. Use a flexible tape measure placed at the shoulder point down to the wrist bone, keeping the tape close to the skin. Mark key landmarks like the elbow for accurate results. Repeat for consistency and note measurements on both arms — they may differ slightly. Precise arm length data allows for well-fitted clothing and equipment design suited to a range of body sizes.
Method 2
Method 2 of 2:
### Measuring Arm Span
[ Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length)
1. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-6.jpg)
1
**Get a partner to measure your arm span.** While you can measure your arm length on your own, you cannot measure your arm span by yourself. Ask a partner to hold the measuring tape while you position yourself to get a precise arm span.
2. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-7.jpg)
2
**Stand upright with your back to a wall.** Standing at your fullest height will allow your partner to take the best reading possible, as slouching can inhibit your arm span. If you cannot turn your back to a wall, stand up as straight as possible and avoid hunching your shoulders.[\[8\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-8) X Research source
3. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-8.jpg)
3
**Stretch your arms out as far as they will go.** Avoid bending your arms or your fingers. Try to keep your arms level and even, as raising or lowering your arms can also decrease your full arm span.[\[9\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-9) X Research source
4. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-9.jpg)
4
**Measure between both of your middle fingers.** Traditionally, arm span is measured between the middle finger of one hand to middle finger of your other hand. Have your partner take a measuring tape and measure from the tip of your middle finger on your left hand to the middle finger on your right hand.[\[10\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-10) X Research source
- Ask your partner to keep the tape measurer even to keep the measurement accurate.
5. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-10.jpg)
5
**Compare your arm span to your height.** Most people's heights are about equal to their arm spans, within a few inches or centimeters. Measure your height [by yourself](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Your-Height-by-Yourself "Measure Your Height by Yourself") or [with a partner](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Height "Measure Height") to compare the two measurements.[\[11\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-11) X [Trustworthy Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health [Go to source](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length)
## Expert Q\&A
Search
[Add New Question]()
- Question
How do you measure sleeves?
[](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew)
[David Pew](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew)
Professional Tailor
David Pew is a Professional Tailor based in Seattle, Washington. He owns his own tailoring business, Sew Generously, which he founded in 2013. With over 15 years of experience, David specializes in bespoke tailoring and alterations. He uses his experiences, skills, and eye for detail to produce the highest quality of products. David believes in creating garments with the finest materials that are built to last, and is a dedicated craftsman. Through Sew Generously’s website, David runs a blog, Stitching Confidential, where he writes on different topics in the tailoring, fashion, and art worlds. The business also hosts Sew Generously Galleries, quarterly art shows where they invite local artists to display their art, host workshops, and perform for the community at their shop. David received a BA in German and French from Western Washington University.
[](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew)
[David Pew](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew)
Professional Tailor
Expert Answer
Start by measuring from the nape of the neck, down across the point of the shoulder, and then down the arm to where the sleeves should hit. If you're measuring for a shirt, be a little generous with that, because your sleeves will ride up when you reach forward. If you're measuring for a coat, stop at the fleshiest part of the thumb, and don't add any extra.
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## Things You'll Need
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## References
1. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_ref-1) <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7202060/>
2. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_ref-2) David Pew. Professional Tailor. Expert Interview
3. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_ref-3) <https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/hp/cgm/if-hp-cgm-measuring-upper-arm-length.pdf>
4. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_ref-4) David Pew. Professional Tailor. Expert Interview
5. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_ref-5) David Pew. Professional Tailor. Expert Interview
6. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_ref-6) David Pew. Professional Tailor. Expert Interview
7. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_ref-7) <https://www.bapen.org.uk/pdfs/must/must_page6.pdf>
8. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_ref-8) <https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/hp/cgm/if-hp-cgm-measuring-upper-arm-length.pdf>
9. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_ref-9) <https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/human-body-ratios/>
[More References (2)](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#aiinfo)
1. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_ref-10) <https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/hp/cgm/if-hp-cgm-measuring-upper-arm-length.pdf>
2. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_ref-11) <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8793422>
## About This Article

Co-authored by:
[David Pew](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew)
Professional Tailor
This article was co-authored by [David Pew](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew). David Pew is a Professional Tailor based in Seattle, Washington. He owns his own tailoring business, Sew Generously, which he founded in 2013. With over 15 years of experience, David specializes in bespoke tailoring and alterations. He uses his experiences, skills, and eye for detail to produce the highest quality of products. David believes in creating garments with the finest materials that are built to last, and is a dedicated craftsman. Through Sew Generously’s website, David runs a blog, Stitching Confidential, where he writes on different topics in the tailoring, fashion, and art worlds. The business also hosts Sew Generously Galleries, quarterly art shows where they invite local artists to display their art, host workshops, and perform for the community at their shop. David received a BA in German and French from Western Washington University. This article has been viewed 263,257 times.
13 votes - 66%
Co-authors: 6
Updated: February 24, 2025
Views: 263,257
Categories: [Sewing Skills](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Sewing-Skills "Category:Sewing Skills") \| [Clothing Sizes](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Clothing-Sizes "Category:Clothing Sizes")
[Article SummaryX](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#summary_wrapper)
To measure your arm length, start by standing up straight with your arms relaxed at your sides. Next, place one end of a measuring tape at the center of the back of your neck, then across the top of your shoulder and down the length of your arm. If you’re taking a sleeve measurement, take the measurement just past your wrist bone. For a full arm length measurement, run the tape all the way to your fingertips, making sure to stretch out your fingers. For more tips, like how to measure your arm span, read on\!
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Co-authored by:
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Professional Tailor
13 votes - 66%
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| Readable Markdown | [ Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length)
[ Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length)
- [Calculating Arm Length](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#Calculating-Arm-Length)
- [Measuring Arm Span](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#Measuring-Arm-Span)
- [Video](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#Video)
- [Expert Q\&A](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#qa_headline)
- [Things You'll Need](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#thingsyoullneed)
Whether you need your arm length for fitness-related reasons or to take your sleeve size, all you need is a tape measurer. As long as you know which points to record, you can easily take the measurement without a seamstress or tailor. If possible, have a partner help you with these measurements to avoid an inaccurate reading. With the right positioning, you can finish measuring your arm length in a matter of minutes.
1. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-1.jpg)
Although you can measure your arm length on your own, you will get a better measurement if you have a partner who can take it for you. Avoid hunching forward or leaning as much as possible, as either may skew your measurement.[\[1\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-1)
- Keep your arms slightly bent, with your fingers in your pockets.
2. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-2.jpg)
Position the measuring tape exactly in the center of your neck to get the most accurate measurement.[\[2\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-2) Taking your measurements over the shoulder and down the hand will give you a precise reading, particularly if you are measuring your arm length for clothing.[\[3\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-3)
Advertisement
3. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-3.jpg)
Do not go measure down your back, as you will want to get the fullest arm length possible. Instead, go across your shoulder and down your arms. If you're not sure how to take this measurement, think about what a long-sleeved shirt seam will look like—this is approximately the length you will measure.
4. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-4.jpg)
If you're taking sleeve measurements, finish measuring where you would like the sleeve or shirt cuff to sit. This should be around or just past your wrist bone, depending on how long you prefer your sleeve length to be.[\[4\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-4)
- Consider adding just a little extra to this length for shirt sleeves. That way, when you reach forward, your sleeves won't ride up on your arms.[\[5\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-5)
- If you're measuring for a coat, measure to the point where your wrist starts to widen into your thumb, and do not add any extra.[\[6\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-6)
5. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-5.jpg)
If you're measuring arm length for fitness-related reasons, you may need to measure past your wrist. Measure all the way to your fingertips, stretching out your fingers as far as possible.[\[7\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-7)

Paula J. Myers-McDevitt, Apparel Industry Veteran and Technical Design Authority
Properly measuring arm length requires careful technique. Have the subject stand with arms relaxed at their sides. Use a flexible tape measure placed at the shoulder point down to the wrist bone, keeping the tape close to the skin. Mark key landmarks like the elbow for accurate results. Repeat for consistency and note measurements on both arms — they may differ slightly. Precise arm length data allows for well-fitted clothing and equipment design suited to a range of body sizes.
1. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-6.jpg)
While you can measure your arm length on your own, you cannot measure your arm span by yourself. Ask a partner to hold the measuring tape while you position yourself to get a precise arm span.
2. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-7.jpg)
Standing at your fullest height will allow your partner to take the best reading possible, as slouching can inhibit your arm span. If you cannot turn your back to a wall, stand up as straight as possible and avoid hunching your shoulders.[\[8\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-8)
3. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-8.jpg)
Avoid bending your arms or your fingers. Try to keep your arms level and even, as raising or lowering your arms can also decrease your full arm span.[\[9\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-9)
4. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-9.jpg)
Traditionally, arm span is measured between the middle finger of one hand to middle finger of your other hand. Have your partner take a measuring tape and measure from the tip of your middle finger on your left hand to the middle finger on your right hand.[\[10\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-10)
- Ask your partner to keep the tape measurer even to keep the measurement accurate.
5. [](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#/Image:Measure-Arm-Length-Step-10.jpg)
Most people's heights are about equal to their arm spans, within a few inches or centimeters. Measure your height [by yourself](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Your-Height-by-Yourself "Measure Your Height by Yourself") or [with a partner](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Height "Measure Height") to compare the two measurements.[\[11\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#_note-11)
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How do you measure sleeves?
[](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew)
David Pew is a Professional Tailor based in Seattle, Washington. He owns his own tailoring business, Sew Generously, which he founded in 2013. With over 15 years of experience, David specializes in bespoke tailoring and alterations. He uses his experiences, skills, and eye for detail to produce the highest quality of products. David believes in creating garments with the finest materials that are built to last, and is a dedicated craftsman. Through Sew Generously’s website, David runs a blog, Stitching Confidential, where he writes on different topics in the tailoring, fashion, and art worlds. The business also hosts Sew Generously Galleries, quarterly art shows where they invite local artists to display their art, host workshops, and perform for the community at their shop. David received a BA in German and French from Western Washington University.
[](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Pew)
Professional Tailor
Expert Answer
Start by measuring from the nape of the neck, down across the point of the shoulder, and then down the arm to where the sleeves should hit. If you're measuring for a shirt, be a little generous with that, because your sleeves will ride up when you reach forward. If you're measuring for a coat, stop at the fleshiest part of the thumb, and don't add any extra.
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## Things You'll Need
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## References
About This Article
[Article SummaryX](https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Arm-Length#summary_wrapper)
To measure your arm length, start by standing up straight with your arms relaxed at your sides. Next, place one end of a measuring tape at the center of the back of your neck, then across the top of your shoulder and down the length of your arm. If you’re taking a sleeve measurement, take the measurement just past your wrist bone. For a full arm length measurement, run the tape all the way to your fingertips, making sure to stretch out your fingers. For more tips, like how to measure your arm span, read on\!
Did this summary help you?
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 263,257 times.
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