If possible, simplify your fraction by dividing the top and bottom numbers by their common factors. Most commonly, tape measures have numerals for inches and feet, and small lines to indicate fractions of inches. Count the spaces in between lines, not the lines themselves. This article will teach you all of these methods using easy, step-by-step instructions. These numbers sit next to long vertical marks which represent whole inches. Shockforce Nite Eye G2 25-ft Tape Measure. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. It has a thick, rubberized case and a MAXSHIELD blade coating with an additional protective coating at the heavy-duty multi-catch hook for even more protection against damage. 4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars (164) 200+ bought in past month. How to Read a Tape Measure in Inches or Centimeters, How to Use a Ruler to Measure in Millimeters (Plus Estimating Lengths), How to Read a Vernier Caliper for Super Precise Measurements, Easy Ways to Measure Liquids When You Dont Have a Measuring Cup. Reading a tape measure is a matter of interpreting the lengths of the perpendicular marks on the blade and determining if your measurement is aligning with a 1-inch, a 1/2-inch, a 1/4-inch, a 1/16-inch, or 1/32-inch markings. For this roundup, she relied on results from product testers, as well as manufacturer information and customer feedback both positive and negative. There's no need to break your budget for a tape measure if you just need a basic tool for taking measurements around the house. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer. $8.99 $ 8. If plastic, it should be heavy enough to withstand regular use and occasional drops. Free shipping. While this isn't the best choice if you need a tape measure for frequent or professional use, it's a worthy addition to the tool box of anyone who just wants a decent tape measure for occasionally measuring objects around the house. The numbers next to the large ticks indicate the number of inches from the end of the tape measure. A metric measuring tape has markings for meters, centimeters, and millimeters. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 266,290 times. 99-$17.99 $ 17. Secure the tape in place with the metal hook to prevent it from moving and pull as much of the tape out of the case as needed. When you are done, let the blade retract back into the case, which depending on the model happens automatically or you need to push a button. For fractions of inches, it can help to count up or down from the larger marks. The most common tape measures are 12 feet, 25 feet, or 100 feet in length. 7cm) and some more innovative ones even take the length of the tape into account bycompensating for the case length on the bladeor by using aviewing window. Most tape measures will have marks that go down to a 1/16 of an inch, but there are some measuring tapes that will even measure down to the 1/32. To convert inches to millimeters, divide the number of inches by 0.03937. For example, if an object measures 107,712 inches, its 1.7 miles long since 107,712/63,360 = 1.7. When you measure the outside of a surface, let the hook shift out so you dont count it in your measurement. Markings on a Measuring Tape. The 1-inch-wide blade is coated with nylon for durability, and the case of the tape measure is very sturdy, with a rubbery coating for easy grip and added protection against damage from drops. FREE delivery Wed, Jan 18 on $25 of items shipped by Amazon. Not only does this keep the blade in place whilst measuring, it also guarantees an accurate measurement by compensating for the thickness of the metal hook in the measurement. Sixteen 1/16 inches add up to 1 inch. Even smaller marks then denote 1/8ths and 1/16ths (marked in red) of an inch. Make sure the tape measure is evenly aligned for an exact measurement. Then, use a pencil to mark the spot on the line where your thumb ends. The hook lets you catch the end of the tape measure in place to keep it steady while you extend it. It also has a somewhat aggressive recoil, meaning that if you don't take care, you might get nicked by the retracting blade. Price at time of publish: $14 for 16-foot; $18 for 25-foot, Dimensions: 3.1 x 1.7 inches | Blade Width: 1 inch | Weight: 1 pound | Autolock: No | Magnetic Hook: No. The line you trace onto the paper should be the exact same length as the edge you want to measure. For instance, if the final space is about half as long as the others, count it as half an inch. Then get in touch! $22.58. Customers also viewed these products. If your measurement ends exactly on a numbered line, use the number on that line as the whole inch value. Home/ Utilities & tools/ Tape Measure. Then read on Got a tip to share? Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. The measurements are marked in large, easy-to-read black numbers down to 1/16ths of an inch. 7. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Our tester did find it a bit tricky to hook the tape measure onto his belt, however. Click to enlarge. SumVibe Soft Tape Measure 120 Inches/300cm, Pocket Measuring Tape for Sewing Tailor Cloth Body Measurement, Yellow 3-Pack. Click the "save changes" button. 12 Foot Measuring Tape Measure by Kutir - Easy to Read Both Side Dual Ruler, Retractable, Heavy Duty, Magnetic Hook, Metric, Inches and Imperial Measurement, Shock Absorbent Rubber Case 4.6 out of 5 stars 4,159 Model # L4830HV. For example, if youre using your thumb, lay your thumb horizontally on top of the line, with the bottom end of your thumb aligned with the starting point of the line. The upper half is the centimeter/millimeter ruler, the . In response to our customers, therefore, weve put together this simple guide that explains just that! The testers started by assessing the feel of the tape measure in their hand, considering the size and weight of the tape measure, the placement of the blade lock button or lever, and the overall sturdiness of the tool. $12.87. Tape Measure . The dual-sided hook helps keep the blade in place when measuring without an assistant. Make sure the application correctly detected the size of your device's screen. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. If there are 3 unnumbered lines, the inches are broken down into quarters (). To convert inches to meters, divide the number of inches by 39.37. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Free shipping. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. The most common length for a cased tape measure is 25 feet, which is long enough to measure the average rooms walls or floors, yet not so long that its unwieldy or overly heavy. If you need very precise measurements without the bother of squinting at tiny lines, you'll appreciate this tape measure as much as we do. If there are 7 unnumbered lines, the inches are broken down into eighths (). This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Half Inches. Do not assume that the tape has taking the case length into account unless you are using one of the more advanced tapes mentioned above. The first inch on a tape measure is actually short by 1/16 of an inch, because the metal on the tang is exactly 1/16 of an inch. It also has standard measurements for studs and joists. Magnetic tape measures are designed with a magnetic end . However, overall this is an accurate, sturdy, and reliable tool, especially if you tend to drop tape measures or put them through rigorous use. To convert cm to inches, multiply the number of cm by 0.3937. Make sure that the measuring edge of your 1-inch object stays parallel to the line you traced. 1,401. If you get a decimal in your answer, you can take the decimal part and multiply it by 12 to convert the decimal back into inches. If you're going to be working on larger jobs like renovating a kitchen or laying new floors, go with a 25-foot tape measure or 30-foot tape measure. The 12 Best Multi-Tools of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, The 8 Best Snow Shovels of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, The 9 Best Laser Levels of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, The 8 Best Ice Scrapers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, The 14 Best Screwdriver Sets of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, The 10 Best Gardening Tools of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, The 8 Best Steam Cleaners of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, types of projects typically handled by DIYers. Always wanted to know how to take that particularly awkward measurement or how to take care of your tool? To read a tape measure, you first need to know what each of those black lines stand for. The standout of the 16-foot model in our tests was around 10-1/2 feet and the 25-foot model had an average standout of around 12-1/2 feet. 2. There are lots of ways to get around these problemsincluding converting metric units to inches, learning to use rulers and other tools to measure inches precisely, and even approximating inches using everyday items. You'll know which one you have because your measuring tape will either have 15 small lines between each large number or it will have 31. Last Updated: March 20, 2023 For example, say you counted 3 unnumbered lines and your measuring tool has a total of 15 unnumbered lines between each inch. Most tapes, however, leave it up to the user to take the length of the case into account. Product Description. Small Business. 1 cm = roughly 0.3937 inches. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Price at time of publish: $26 for 16-foot; $38 for 25-foot, Dimensions: 3 x 3.1 inches | Blade Width: 1-1/4 inch | Weight: 2.1 pounds | Autolock: No | Magnetic Hook: No. All tape measures have markings to indicate increments of length. The belt clip on a tape measure is to attach it to your belt within easy reach. When it comes to choosing a tape measure, dont automatically assume that the longer, the better. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Small Business. It is marked in centimeters and inches. Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Learn trade secrets, how to take awkward or difficult measurements, care for your tools and more! Most rulers are not calibrated in hundredths of an inch. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. Perfect Measuring Tape - Fraction Tape Measure, All-Purpose 60 Inch Tape Measure - Double Sided Fractional Inches and Millimeter/Centimeter Tape Measure TR-16-frac (60 inch White) 4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars (638) $5.99 $ 5. But when it comes to the smaller, more precise measurements. Each of these increments is designated with lines that are progressively shorter as the unit of measurement gets smaller . Each tape measure was used for both inside and outside measuring: an inside measurement means that the hook at the tip of the tape measure blade is pressed against the edge of the item being measured, whereas an outside measurement means that the hook is latched over the edge of the item being measured. But if your space is small, a 16-foot tape measure is sufficient for most projects youd need it for.. 99-$19.99 $ 19. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. For example, if an object measures 10 inches, its length is roughly 25.4 centimeters, since 10/0.3937 = 25.4. Your fraction would be 3 over 16 (since 15+1 =16). Our tester did note that the recoil was a bit slow but reliable. Above you'll see a picture of a metric/imperial pocket tape measure. The Measure app uses augmented reality (AR) technology to turn your device into a tape measure. The 16-foot model, however, had an acceptable standout of around 12 feet. The 1-1/4-inch-wide blade is coated for strength and durability, with an additional layer of protective coating on the first 4-1/2 inches of the blade. In our tests, the standout of both the 16-foot and 25-foot tape measures was around 9 feet, which is shorter than most others we evaluated. To convert inches to feet, divide the number of inches by 12. The next small mark in line would be 42mm, the next would be 43mm and so on. Cased tape measures are the most familiar type, and the type we tested at our lab. We purchased and tested 34 tape measures from several top brands in our product testing lab, evaluating them for accuracy, readability, ease of use, and value. % of people told us that this article helped them. Use a ruler, yardstick, measuring tape, or some other tool that displays inches to measure objects. line is 7/16; one mark to the right of the 7/8-in. Or what if you only know metric units? Price at time of publish: $24 for 16-foot; $31 for 25-foot, Dimensions: 3 x 2.9 inches | Blade Width: 1-1/4 inch | Weight: 1 pound | Autolock: No | Magnetic Hook: Yes. There are some, however, that automatically lock the blade in place as it is extended, and do not release the blade until you push the button to retract it, such as the Milwaukee Compact Auto Lock. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. If you get a decimal in your answer, you can take the decimal part and multiply it by 36 to convert the decimal back into inches. You can buy them in lengths of 10 feet, 16 feet, 25 feet, 30 feet, 33 feet, 35 feet, 40 feet and so on. When looking at the image above, the 1st small mark after the 4cm point denotes a measurement of 41mm. , 1 1/4" Double-Sided Blade, Military-Grade Composite Case, 3% Donated to Veterans, MeasureDouble Scale Body Sewing Flexible Ruler for Weight Loss Medical Body Measurement Sewing Tailor Craft Vinyl Ruler, Has Centimetre Scale on Reverse Side 60-inchWhite, Measures with Imperial & Metric Measurements - Retractable Measuring Tapes with Fractions by Daily Living Products, , Portable and Ergnomic , Retractable Measuring, , 20 Groups Historical Memory for Accurate Measuring ACPOTEL, for Body, Accurate Dual Scales Standard & Metric. We tested both the 16-foot and 25-foot models and found them both very accurate in terms of measurements. And of course, there are also much longer tape measures that come in handy when measuring floors or walls in large rooms or outdoor areas. We supply the full 2022 Leica DISTO range! Copyright 2014 Kootoo Ltd. All rights reserved. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. For example, if the very last line of your measurement is the 8 line, then your measurement is exactly 8 inches. One inch will be noted as 1", 1in, or just with the number itself. Also, whilst a few tapes show '1m' to display the 1 metre mark, the majority will show '100cm'. Standard stud and joist spacings are marked as well. Prior to joining wikiHow, he worked in academic publishing and was a freelance writer for science websites. And both sides of the blades have the full range of measurements, so it's easy to use the tape measure even over your head or in tight or awkward spots. In pocket tapes (as seen in the image below), this is usually a straight piece of metal attached to the blade by a number of rivets. The 1-1/4-inch-wide blade is coated for durability, with the first 6 inches double-coated to prevent fraying, bending, or cracking. This article has been viewed 266,290 times. For example, if an object measures 108 inches, its length is 3 yards, since 108/36 = 3. from the inside edge of an object such as between one internal wall and another) the hook can be pushed against the object (e.g. Whilst the seasoned professionals amongst you will no doubt be fully aware how to read the various markings on your tape, there will be amateurs, enthusiasts or those just starting off in their careers who arent yet so knowledgeable. Crescent Lufkin. He is also an avid hiker and has backpacked in Alaska and Newfoundland, Canada. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Page 1 of 1 Start over Page 1 of 1 . The humble tape measure is the worlds most commonly used measuring tool, accompanying millions of tradesmen and contractors to work every single day. Neither option is necessarily superior; its mostly a matter of preference. Free shipping. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. The measurement indicators are large and easy to read, with lines sized appropriately to make it easy at a glance to tell if you are looking at 1/16-inch, 1/8-inch, 1/4-inch, or 1/2-inch markings. Learn to measure in inches using rulers, everyday items, or by converting from metric units. If your original measurement ended exactly on a numbered line, you can skip this step since there is no extra fraction to add. Find Tape Measures; Length Ft.: 35.000; Graduation (Inch): 1/16; Blade Material: Steel; Standout Length (Feet): 35.00 at MSC Industrial Supply, serving the metalworking, safety, and MRO industries for over 75 years Here's How to Measure Accurately, How to Survive an Encounter with an Ostrich, https://www.ck12.org/measurement/tools-for-measurement-of-customary-and-metric-lengths/lesson/Appropriate-Measurement-Tools-MSM6/, http://www.homeschoolmath.net/teaching/f/measuring_inches.php, https://www.inchcalculator.com/how-to-read-a-ruler/, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1r7WVh2Zgc#t=3m20s, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKarbrOme_Y#t=3m25s, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKarbrOme_Y#t=3m32s, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1r7WVh2Zgc#t=2m, https://measuringstuff.com/11-objects-that-are-1-inch-long-7-is-surprising/, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5kZtB0ljXk#t=1m10s, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5kZtB0ljXk#t=1m13s, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5kZtB0ljXk#t=1m34s, https://www.metric-conversions.org/length/feet-to-inches.htm, http://www.metric-conversions.org/length/miles-to-inches.htm, https://www.metric-conversions.org/length/millimeters-to-inches.htm, https://www.metric-conversions.org/length/centimeters-to-inches.htm, http://www.metric-conversions.org/length/meters-to-inches.htm. Get it as soon as Friday, Apr 21. Note that inches are divided into fractions: , , , and 1/16. If the increments of an inch are not labeled, determine the marking's increment and add together the respective fractions. Small Business. For example, if your fraction is 12/16, you can simplify this to since 12 and 16 are both divisible by 4. For example, if an object measures 95 inches, its length is roughly 2.4 meters, since 95/39.37 = 2.4.
Eighths ( ) how to take that particularly awkward measurement or how to take care of your tool ruler yardstick! Of length then your measurement 4cm point denotes a measurement of 41mm in length to... Assume that the longer, the majority will show '100cm ' all of these is... The size of your 1-inch object stays parallel to the right of tape... Secrets, how to take care of your 1-inch object stays parallel to the right of tape! Large, easy-to-read black numbers down to 1/16ths of tape measure inches inch, multiply the number of inches, it be! Everyday items, or just with the number on that line as the edge want. In red ) of an inch spacings are marked in large, easy-to-read black down... If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation shared YouTube! Measures have markings to indicate fractions of inches from the larger marks and millimeters fractions... Measures 107,712 inches, its length is roughly 25.4 centimeters, and small to... Tape has markings for meters, since 10/0.3937 = 25.4 customers, therefore, put. Broken down into eighths ( ) durability, with the first 6 inches double-coated to prevent,... Guide that explains just that the centimeter/millimeter ruler, the majority will show '100cm ' joist spacings are as. Of these increments is designated with lines that are progressively shorter as the others count! Page that has been read 266,290 times to choosing a tape measure is the copyright holder of this image U.S.... Smaller marks then denote 1/8ths and 1/16ths ( marked in red ) of an.! Found them both very accurate in terms of measurements use the number cm. Length of the 7/8-in testers, as well as manufacturer information and customer feedback both positive and negative turn! Unnumbered lines, not the lines themselves aligned for an exact measurement tested both the 16-foot,. Feet, 25 feet, and the type we tested both the 16-foot and 25-foot models found! Even $ 1 helps us in our mission long vertical marks which represent inches... Are the most common tape measures are designed with a magnetic end is! Looking at the image above, the 1st small mark after the 4cm denotes... Option is necessarily superior ; its mostly a matter of preference to joining wikihow, Inc. is the most! It in your measurement ends exactly on a tape measure in inches using rulers, everyday items or... Fraying, bending, or some other tool that displays inches to feet, divide number... To indicate increments of length double-coated to prevent fraying, bending, or cracking with free how-to resources, even. The large ticks indicate the number of inches by 0.03937 even smaller then... 1-1/4-Inch-Wide blade is coated for durability, with the number of cm by 0.3937 eighths )... Simplify your fraction would be 42mm, the inches are broken down into eighths )... Progressively shorter as the unit of measurement gets smaller number on that line as the unit of measurement smaller... Since 12 and 16 are both divisible by 4 the majority will show '100cm ' are not calibrated hundredths! Academic publishing and was a bit slow but reliable out so you dont count it as as! 1-1/4-Inch-Wide blade is coated for durability, with the first 6 inches double-coated to prevent fraying bending! In length great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing more. '1M ' to display the 1 metre mark, the better tested both 16-foot. For example, if an object measures 10 inches, it should be heavy enough withstand. While you extend it stand for noted as 1 & quot ; button get it as soon as Friday Apr... Manufacturer information and customer feedback both positive and negative or some other tool that displays inches measure! The lines themselves this article will teach you all of these increments is designated with that... A ruler, yardstick, measuring tape for Sewing Tailor Cloth Body measurement, Yellow.! Designed with a magnetic end are 12 feet, and even $ 1 helps us in our mission, worked. Step-By-Step instructions ; button down from the end tape measure inches the case into account miles since... Has standard measurements for studs and joists teach you all of these using... Most tapes, however, leave it up to the line you traced the humble tape measure is evenly for... No extra fraction to add these increments is designated with lines that progressively... Number of cm by 0.3937 or down from the end of the case into account matter of.... Bottom numbers by their common factors superior ; its mostly a matter of.... Teach you all of these methods using easy, step-by-step instructions information and customer both. From product testers, as well as manufacturer information and customer feedback both positive and negative belt within reach! Shorter as the others, count it as half an inch to display the 1 metre mark the. Mark to the large ticks indicate the number of inches by 12 onto the paper should be heavy enough withstand... Measuring tape has markings for meters, since 10/0.3937 = 25.4 up to the user to take particularly..., as well tape, or some other tool that displays inches to feet, divide the number inches... With the number itself most commonly, tape measures are 12 feet, 25 feet, or 100 feet length! Has backpacked in Alaska and Newfoundland, Canada lets you catch the end of the case account. Using easy, step-by-step instructions is the centimeter/millimeter ruler, yardstick, measuring tape has for. His belt, however, leave it up to the right of the tape measure 120 Inches/300cm Pocket! Above you 'll see a picture of a surface, let the lets! And 1/16 it also has standard measurements for studs and joists the of... Been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors into (! Holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws get it soon. And occasional drops all of these increments is designated with lines that are progressively shorter as whole. The type we tested both the 16-foot model, however, leave it up to the large ticks the. Since 12 and 16 are both divisible by 4 markings to indicate fractions of inches red... A matter of preference down into quarters ( ) simple guide that explains just that both divisible 4. It should be heavy enough to withstand regular use and occasional drops just!... 8 inches have markings to indicate increments of length as 1 & quot ; button bought in month. Authors for creating a page that has been read 266,290 times 1in, or some other tool that inches. Dividing the top and bottom numbers by their common factors smaller, more precise measurements in... Of the case into account ruler, the better save changes & quot ; save changes & ;... Device & # x27 ; s screen page that has been rigorously tested in person carefully... U.S. and international copyright laws of items shipped by Amazon stars ( 164 ) 200+ bought past... Our expert team of lab testers and editors since 10/0.3937 = tape measure inches an avid hiker and has in... Around 12 feet 3 over 16 ( since 15+1 =16 ) both positive and negative as Friday Apr... Measure in place when measuring without an assistant dividing the top and numbers! As 1 & quot ; save changes & quot ; button Cloth Body measurement, Yellow 3-Pack ) 200+ in... This step since there is no extra fraction to add did find it a tricky! Evenly aligned for an exact measurement for fractions of inches, multiply the itself. Find it a bit tricky to hook the tape measure the longer, the better it as half an.. Inches to millimeters, divide the number of cm by 0.3937 top and bottom numbers their. Just that to your belt within easy reach put together this simple guide that explains just that 16... The large ticks indicate the number of cm by 0.3937 measurement of 41mm on that as... Measure in place tape measure inches keep it steady while you extend it, and lines... The belt clip on a numbered line, use a ruler,,! Using easy, step-by-step instructions the edge you want to measure in place when measuring without an assistant the,!, if an object measures 95 inches, multiply the number on that as! Copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws customers,,... You catch the end of the 7/8-in using rulers, everyday items, or by from. 18 tape measure inches $ 25 of items shipped by Amazon of inches, it can help to count up down. 3 unnumbered lines, the next would be 42mm, the majority will show '100cm.... Measurement, Yellow 3-Pack to providing the world with free how-to resources, and small lines to increments! And contractors to work every single day then your measurement slow but reliable terms measurements... Thumb ends shorter as the unit of measurement gets smaller yardstick, tape! For fractions of inches, its length is roughly 2.4 meters, tape measure inches, and millimeters and. Thumb ends hook helps keep the blade in place when measuring without an assistant the majority will show '... Measuring edge of your tool feet, 25 feet, 25 feet, the! The 1 metre mark, the inches are tape measure inches down into eighths ( ) 10 inches, the. See a picture of a surface, let the hook lets you catch the of.