How to Measure Bra Size Without a Measuring Tape
To measure without a tape, wrap a non-stretchy string or a charging cable snugly around your underbust and loosely around your bust, mark where it meets and measure the length with a ruler. Or print the paper tape on this page at 100% scale. Then enter the numbers in the calculator.
Printable paper tape (0–162 cm)
Print at 100% scale ("Actual size"; switch off "Fit to page"). Check the control line with a ruler, cut out the strips and tape them end to end.
Use your browser’s print command to print this page.
Enter your measurements
The calculator needs JavaScript. Without it, use the steps and the size chart below: measure your snug underbust and your bust in inches, round the underbust to the nearest even number for the band, and count one cup letter per inch of difference.
Calculated in your browser. Your last measurements are kept only on this device until you press Clear.
Your starting size
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Sizes vary between brands and styles. Use this as a starting point and try bras on: the band should sit level and feel firm on the loosest hook.
Next: sister sizes explained · convert to other countries · measuring tips
With a string or cable
- Wrap a piece of non-stretchy string or a charging cable snugly around your ribcage under your bust.
- Pinch the point where it meets the end, lay it flat and measure it with a ruler or the printed tape.
- Repeat loosely around the fullest part of your bust.
- Enter both numbers in the calculator.
With the printed paper tape
- Print this page’s paper tape at 100% (Actual size).
- Check that the control line measures exactly 10 cm with a ruler.
- Cut out the strips and tape them end to end in order: 0–18, 18–36, 36–54 and so on.
- Measure as with a normal soft tape.
With a ruler only
Lay the string along a ruler and move the ruler along, counting each full ruler length. A 30 cm ruler laid three times is 90 cm, plus what is left.
Frequently asked questions
How can I measure my bra size without a tape measure?
Wrap a string, ribbon or charging cable around your underbust and bust, mark where it meets, then measure the length with a ruler or our printable paper tape. Enter the numbers in the calculator.
What can I use instead of a measuring tape?
Anything long, thin and not stretchy: string, ribbon, a shoelace, a phone charging cable or a strip of paper. Avoid elastic or stretchy cord, because it gives too short a number.
How do I make sure the paper tape prints at the right size?
Print at 100% or "Actual size" and turn off "Fit to page". Then check the 10 cm control line with a ruler. If it is not exactly 10 cm, the strips are not accurate.
Can I measure with my phone?
Some phones have camera measuring apps, but they are made for objects and are not reliable around a body. A string and a ruler is simpler and more dependable.
Is measuring with a string accurate?
It can be close if the string is not stretchy and you keep it level. Measure twice and use the average. A soft tape is easier, but a string works.
Can I measure over my clothes?
Measure over a non-padded bra or bare skin. Clothes add bulk and make both numbers bigger, which changes the result. Even a thin top can shift the cup by a letter, so take it off if you can.
Last updated: October 15, 2026