Shirmer Strips or Tear Strips are made of filter paper. It has a calibrated scale printed on the strips. This will provide an easier and more precise reading. These strips are individually wrapped and are gauged so they can be easily read. Tear strips are used to measure the amount of tear production. The Schirmer test is based upon mechanical reflex stimulation of the tear production and is actually a test of reflex tear production when performed without anaesthesia.