How to Determine the Size of Glass Frames

Eyeglasses must be personalized to fit the individual wearing them. You will need to determine the size of the glass frames you will be purchasing. Frames consist of component parts, including the lug, lenses, bridge and dowel point of the frame side. The glass frame size, usually printed on the arm, will have the significant numbers you will need: the eye size, bridge and temple.

Things You'll Need

  • Ruler
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the pupillary distance of your face -- the space between your pupils. This is the eye size.

    • 2

      Determine the bridge size. The bridge size is the distance between the two lenses -- a measurement ranging from 14-24 millimeters. A smaller bridge will sit higher on the nose, while a wider bridge will sit lower. The length of the bridge is a matter of personal preference and comfort. To find your perfect bridge size, try on pairs of glasses with various bridge lengths. When you find a pair with a bridge keeping the glasses at a comfortable angle, then that is your preferred bridge size.

    • 3

      Measure the width of your face by lining up a ruler with your temples. This is the temple size.

    • 4

      Convert the measurements into millimeters. If you measured in inches, multiply that measurement by 25.4 to convert it into millimeters. If you measured in centimeters, multiply the number by 10. When the measurements are printed on the frame arm, the first number is the eye size, the second number is the bridge size, and the final number is the temple length. The first two numbers are separated by a space and the final two numbers are separated by a dash. It will look something like "47 20-165."

    • 5

      Choose the final frame size. Do not choose a frame size more than 3 millimeters above or below your exact measurements.

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