Inches to CM Converter — Convert Inches to Centimeters Instantly
Convert inches (in) to centimeters (cm) quickly and accurately. Perfect for height, woodworking, sewing, construction, and engineering. Uses the exact definition: 1 inch = 2.54 cm.
Note: This tool uses the international inch definition (exactly 1 in = 2.54 cm).
About Inches to Centimeters Conversion
Inches (in) and centimeters (cm) measure the same thing—length—but they come from different systems. Inches are common in U.S. tools, woodworking, apparel sizing, and construction. Centimeters are part of the metric (SI) system used widely around the world. If your plans, rulers, or size charts are in centimeters, this converter gives you exact results. Explore more length calculators in our length conversion tools.
The conversion is straightforward because 1 inch equals exactly 2.54 cm. Multiply a measurement in inches by 2.54 to get centimeters—no approximations, no guesswork. This exact relationship keeps your sewing, carpentry, and height measurements consistent across countries and industries.
Inches to CM Formula
Exact relationship
Use the factor method:
centimeters = inches × 2.54Example:
10 in = 10 × 2.54 = 25.4 cmReverse calculation (cm → in)
Divide by 2.54:
inches = centimeters ÷ 2.54.
Feet + Inches to CM
Step-by-step
- Convert feet to inches:
feet × 12. - Add the extra inches.
- Multiply the total inches by 2.54 to get centimeters.
Example walkthrough:
Input: 5′7″
Inches: (5 × 12) + 7 = 67
CM: 67 × 2.54 = 170.18 cmCommon Fractions of an Inch in CM
Handy table for sewing & woodworking
| Inches (fraction) | Decimal (in) | Centimeters (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 1/4″ | 0.25 | 0.6350 |
| 3/8″ | 0.375 | 0.9525 |
| 1/2″ | 0.5 | 1.2700 |
| 5/8″ | 0.625 | 1.5875 |
| 3/4″ | 0.75 | 1.9050 |
| 7/8″ | 0.875 | 2.2225 |
Why People Convert in → cm
Everyday & technical uses
- 🧍 Height & apparel: Convert body measurements for international size charts.
- 🧵 Sewing & crafts: Translate fractional inches to metric dimensions precisely.
- 🪚 Woodworking & DIY: Align tool setups and plans with metric drawings.
- 🏗️ Construction: Cross-check imperial specs against metric regulations.
- 📐 STEM & labs: Convert device tolerances and test fixtures to metric units.
Related Length Converters
Quick Reference Table
| Inches (in) | Centimeters (cm) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2.54 |
| 2 | 5.08 |
| 5 | 12.70 |
| 10 | 25.40 |
| 12 | 30.48 |
| 24 | 60.96 |
| 36 | 91.44 |
| 48 | 121.92 |
| 60 | 152.40 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you convert inches to centimeters?
Use the exact formula: centimeters = inches × 2.54. Since 1 inch is defined as exactly 2.54 cm, multiplying by 2.54 converts any inch value to centimeters.
What is 1 inch in centimeters?
1 inch = exactly 2.54 centimeters. This has been the international definition since 1959.
How many centimeters is 5 inches?
5 inches × 2.54 = 12.7 centimeters.
How do I convert feet and inches to centimeters?
First convert feet to inches (feet × 12), add the remaining inches, then multiply the total by 2.54. Example: 5′7″ → (5×12 + 7) = 67 inches; 67 × 2.54 = 170.18 cm.
How do I convert fractional inches (like 3/8″) to cm?
Convert the fraction to decimal inches and multiply by 2.54. For example, 3/8″ = 0.375″; 0.375 × 2.54 = 0.9525 cm.
Is an inch the same worldwide?
Yes. The international inch is standardized as exactly 2.54 cm and is the definition used by this converter.
Does temperature or material expansion change the inch-to-cm factor?
No—the conversion factor remains exactly 2.54. Highly precise physical measurements may account for thermal expansion of materials, but the units themselves do not change.
How many centimeters are in 12 inches?
12 inches × 2.54 = 30.48 centimeters.
Why are inches common on U.S. tools and plans?
Inches are part of U.S. customary units. Many drawings, cut lists, and tools in the U.S. are designed in inches, so converting to centimeters keeps your measurements aligned.
What is 72 inches in centimeters?
72 inches × 2.54 = 182.88 centimeters.
How precise should I be when converting to cm?
For everyday tasks, 2–3 decimals usually suffice. For technical work, match your instrument precision and report consistent significant figures.
Can I use this for body height conversions?
Absolutely. Enter your inches (or convert feet＋inches to inches first) and multiply by 2.54. Example: 5′10″ = 70 in → 177.8 cm.
Tips for Working with Centimeters
- Use a metric ruler for direct cm readings—no mental math needed.
- For apparel and height, rounding to the nearest 0.5–1 cm is practical.
- Document the exact factor (2.54) in specs to avoid conversion drift across teams.
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