How do I measure my viola?

Question

Is it just the body, or the body and neck? Mine doesn't have a sticker inside that says the size, like 3/4 or something.

Answer 1

Violins are measured in fractional sizes, the 4/4, 3/4, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16 -- but violas are measured in inches:  13", 14", 15", 16" (which is the size most people play), 16 1/2", even 17 and I think 18.  

Good question:  you measure just the wood.  Turn the instrument over, and measure from bottom to top of the back, the long way.