A method of making a component with a passive strain indicator includes forming the component including an outer surface thereof. The passive strain indicator includes a shim with a plurality of fiducial markers. The method also includes forming the plurality of fiducial markers on the shim by deforming selected locations on the shim. The method further includes attaching a portion of the shim to the outer surface of the component. Forming the component and forming the passive strain indicator are performed separately prior to attaching the shim to the outer surface of the component. A system for monitoring strain includes a component and a passive strain indicator. A portion of the passive strain indicator is integrally joined with the outer surface of the component. The passive strain indicator includes a shim and a plurality of fiducial markers. Each fiducial marker is a discrete three-dimensional feature on the shim.