We’ve all been there – scrolling through rings online, finding one that feels like you, and then hitting a wall: “What’s my ring size?” It’s not exactly something you have memorised, unless you’re in the habit of frequenting jewellery shops. And let’s be honest – most of us aren’t.
Whether you're buying for yourself or someone else, getting the right fit matters. Too tight and you’re cutting off circulation every time it’s warm out. Too loose and you're one enthusiastic handshake away from losing it forever. Not ideal.
So, if you’re unsure of your ring size, don’t panic. Here’s a clear, no-nonsense guide to measuring your finger at home – plus a few handy tips to help you get it right the first time.
Option 1: Use a Ring Sizer Tool (The Best Bet)
First off, if you want the most accurate result without heading to a jeweller, a proper ring sizer is the way to go. They’re really simple to use, and give you a quick read of your exact size in your preferred measurements.
There are two types:
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A plastic ring gauge – like a belt that tightens around your finger, available to purchase here
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A ring size loop set – which you try on like you would a real ring
Either will do the job. Just make sure you follow the tips below on when and how to measure for the best accuracy.
Option 2: The DIY Method – String, Paper, or Tape
If you’re not up for buying a tool, no worries. You can get a pretty good estimate with stuff you’ve got lying around the house.
Here’s how:
You’ll need:
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A strip of paper, some non-stretchy string, or even dental floss
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A ruler (millimetres are your friend here)
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A pen
Steps:
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Wrap the paper or string around the base of your finger – snug, but not tight.
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Mark where it overlaps.
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Lay it flat and measure the length in millimetres. That’s your finger’s circumference.
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Use a ring size chart to match that number to a UK ring size.
For reference:
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54mm = UK size N
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56mm = UK size O
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58mm = UK size P½
(And so on – charts are easy to find online.)
A Few Dad-Worthy Tips to Get It Right
Alright, here’s where experience kicks in. Measuring’s one thing, but getting the right fit means thinking about the stuff below:
1. Measure at the Right Time of Day
Your fingers aren’t the same size all day. They swell in the heat, after exercise, after a pint, and sometimes just because. Late afternoon or early evening is usually your best bet for an accurate read – when your fingers are at their "average" size.
2. Check the Fit Over the Knuckle
Your ring needs to go over your knuckle but not slide off after. If your knuckle’s a fair bit larger than the base of your finger, measure both and go for a size in between. You should feel a bit of resistance going over the knuckle – but not need to wrestle it on.
3. Consider the Width of the Ring
Chunky rings feel tighter than slim ones. If you’re buying a wider band (8mm or more), you might want to go up half a size for comfort. Just something to keep in mind.
4. Cold Hands? Warm Hands? It Matters.
Cold weather = smaller fingers. Warm weather = bigger fingers. Don’t measure your hands straight out of the fridge or after a hot shower – you’ll end up with a dodgy result either way.
Buying for Someone Else?
Bit of a gamble, isn’t it? But not impossible.
Here are a couple of tricks:
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Borrow a ring they already wear on the correct finger and trace the inner circle onto a piece of paper. Then measure the diameter.
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Ask their friends or family – someone might already know.
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Or, go with a safe average: for UK men, that’s usually size R or S. Not perfect, but often close enough to resize if needed.
Still Not Sure?
If you’re hovering between sizes, it’s usually better to go slightly bigger. You can always resize or add a ring adjuster if it’s too loose. If it’s too small, though, you’re stuck until it’s sorted.
And if you’re buying from us at Origins, we’re here to help. Drop us a message with your questions, or ask for sizing help before you order. We want it to fit right – first time.
Final Thought
Getting your ring size right isn’t rocket science – just a bit of patience, the right timing, and a good measure. Once you’ve got it nailed, you’ll feel way more confident shopping for rings online, and the fit will feel just right.
At Origins, we believe a ring should feel like it belongs – not just to your style, but to your story. So take five minutes, grab that string or paper, and size yourself up. You’ll be glad you did.
