Not sure that the "penned on" stripes would have been an exact science Angel, and I'm not sure how commonly it was done.
However, if that's what you want to do.... 
Thickness is prolly about 20mm at the ends as I trimmed a bit off the bottom of mine by mistake.
The lines are slightly curved too, so just bare that in mind.
As for placement, I have the tip of the point about an inch under my unit patch, should come about half way down your upper arm.
If it's cost, then just don't do anything at all. You don't have to be a PFC you know.
yeah, PFCs didnt always wear rank at all, only really officers or NCOs
Ok, make sure to use perminant ink though, as you dont want the ink running and messing up your jacket.
As many disapproving groans as this might attract, from an aesthetic point of view I like 'something' on the arms.
Thankyou for the dimensions, i'll give them a go soon.
I've got a set of tan corporal stripes you can have if you like. Take it as a Christmas present.
I'd take the chevrons from HS, never seen any pics of them being penned on and fairly sure they were mostly removed anyway...
Show me a man who will jump out of an airplane, and I'll show you a man who will fight!
General James M. Gavin
CRY HAVOC AND LET LOOSE THE DOGS OF WAR
If angel declines, you can have them Alex. Pick them up from the next game you come along to! 
I didn't mean it like I'd have them if he didn't want them...I'm already badged up with chevrons. I just meant it would be a shame to pen them on because I don't think much of it went on. Thanks for the offer though! 
Show me a man who will jump out of an airplane, and I'll show you a man who will fight!
General James M. Gavin
CRY HAVOC AND LET LOOSE THE DOGS OF WAR
Ah, gotcha.
