It could be very approximate but first choose some known distance - for example, the size of a room and then walk a few times up and down counting the number of steps and keeping the size of the step as uniform as possible. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. Extend the tape measure, the tape is in increments of 16ths, 8ths, 4ths, 1/2's and inches. Reading a ruler is really simple once you know what you're doing. The tape measure is one of the most convenient tools for measuring lengths and distances nowadays, yet reading a tape measure can be tricky! The tape is usually self supporting, with an end-of-tape tab. To read a tape measure find the number next to the large tick, and then find how many small ticks past it the measurement is. We will walk you through everything you need to know about tape measure reading, tape measure markings, and more. Step 1 - Understand the Markings on the Tape. We will walk you through everything you need to know about tape measure reading, tape measure markings, and more. Note: To find a length that is less than 1 inch, just read the tape measure of the length. The measuring tape is of two type. If you need help, see our article on how to, If you have a measuring tape longer than one metre (100 centimetres), usually, the metre(s) will receive a special marking as well — often in a different color than the rest of the markings. Please help us continue to provide you with our trusted how-to guides and videos for free by whitelisting wikiHow on your ad blocker. A measuring tape is typically a flexible tape used for measuring length, often between 2 meters or yards, and 100 feet or 30 meters. Choose a meter stick or metric tape measure. The top portion of a standard tape measure is feet, inches and fractions of inches. For instance, let's say you hold one end of a tape measure in the tips of your fingers and stretch the other end all the way to the crook of your armpit to determine how long your arm is. For example, if you wanted to write five feet, one and a half inches, you would write it like this: 5'1 1/2". Instead, sit the base of the tape measure against one side of the object to be measured. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. It depends on the tape measure itself, they come in different lengths. A diameter tape (D-tape) is a measuring tape used to estimate the diameter of a cylinder object, typically the stem of a tree or pipe. Commonly a tape measure can be seen in a carpenter’s tool box. For fractions of an inch, simply put the fraction after the whole number for inches. Once you have noted it, unhook the tang, holding the blade with your hand so that its recoil won’t cause injury, then press the lock to release the blade. The markings represent meters, centimeters, and millimeters. Notice the metric side of the tape measure. Extensometers or extension-meters are extensively used to measure the change in the length of an object. For example 3 feet, 6 1/4 inches. This article has been viewed 2,909,813 times. I'm really glad that y'all have that, thank you. http://www.johnsonlevel.com/News/TapeMeasure, https://www.ustape.com/blog/accurately-reading-a-tape-measure/, https://sewguide.com/sewing-tape-measure/, https://www.ck12.org/measurement/tools-for-measurement-of-customary-and-metric-lengths/lesson/Appropriate-Measurement-Tools-MSM6/, https://www.mathsisfun.com/measure/metric-length.html, https://sciencing.com/read-metric-tape-measure-4472324.html, http://thesweethome.com/reviews/the-best-tape-measure/, https://www.constructionprotips.com/tools-materials/ultimate-tape-measure-guide/, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow, Every 12 inches, there will often (but not always) be a. 2. Either make a mark or secure the tape measure in place. Approved. Place the front of the tape at the start point and extend it until after you reach the stop point. Measurement Increments on a Tape Measure 1. Tape Measure Marks . That would make the total measured space 17 and 1/4 inches. First, let's review some background. To read a tape measure, think about moving from long marks down to short marks. Note that the line next to the number marks each inch, not the number itself. Why is there an arrow marking on 16, 32, 48, etc. How to read a tape measure with metric markings, in millimetres, centimetres and metres. The markings represent meters, centimeters, and millimeters. Turn on the meter. Notice that the measuring tape is broken down in inches. Put the end of the measure at one end of the item or space you want to measure. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. The measurement is technically taken at the center of the mark; however, if you need measurements to that precision, I would recommend using something a bit more accurate, such as calipers. Amid the current public health and economic crises, when the world is shifting dramatically and we are all learning and adapting to changes in daily life, people need wikiHow more than ever. Step 5: Write your measurement Write your measurement in feet, inches, and fractions of an inch. Reading a Tape Measure. The large numbers are the units you're measuring, like inches or centimeters, and the markings between the large numbers correspond to fractions of that unit. If your measuring tape doesn't have 0.5 centimetre markings, the fifth millimetre after each centimetre marks the 0.5 centimetre. Bending the tape can lead to an estimate instead of an exact measurement. We'll walk you through the basics of each type of ruler. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. The tape runs along the … The longest mark indicates one inch. It's important to know how to read a tape measure. If, for instance, it's three 1/8 inch marks past 24 inches, it is 24 3/8 inches wide. Learning how to read a tape measure is an important skill to learn, whether you're doing home projects, teaching your kids or students, or looking to get into the skilled trades in some capacity. Luckily, with the proper approach, using a tape measure can be a quick, easy way to get you the information you need about your project. Suitable for grades 1 - 3, Measure It lets you choose the measurement that matches the length of the bar. Measuring tape is pretty straightfoward, but there's no shame in getting a tad disoriented. So read on to explore this humble must-have implement and learn to employ it properly—for everything from measuring the inside width of a bookshelf to rapid stud location to drawing a perfect circle. Tape measures in the U.S. mostly utilize Imperial measurements, which means that you measure in feet, inches and fractions of inches. Lay the tape on the floor and hook the end into one corner of the room. Add those the whole inches for your total measurement. The tape measure can be marked with US or English measurements (feet and inches), metric measurements (meters and parts of meters: centimeters, millimeters, etc) or both shared on the same tape. Similar to reading rulers, the large numbers on a standard tape measure are the inch marks.That number is usually in bold, black type, easy to read and refers to the longest of the markings along the edge. Marks on a tape measure are the straight lines that run perpendicular to the tape. A: They are pretty accurate, with most of them able to measure at an accuracy of 1/16. This is an easy way to estimate yards and meters of cord, fabric, or ribbon. A: Laser measures can be used outside. A prime (apostrophe) is used for feet, while a double prime (quotation mark) is used for inches. If you don’t have a pencil or marking tool handy, run the serrated edge back and forth across the material being measured to mark the spot. A diameter tape has either metric or imperial measurements reduced by the value of π.This means the tape measures the diameter of the object. Metric measurements are even easier to calculate. For this reason, it's usually fine to refer to half-centimetre markings in decimal terms (i.e., 1 1/2 centimetres becomes 1.5 centimetres.). 1. Step 1 - Understand the Markings on the Tape. In this case, you need to use the markings on either side to guide you. You can also buy tape measures, like this one from Komelon, which prints the fractions right on the tape, which makes the increments easier to read. Reading 1/2-inch measurements is the same principle as reading one inch: simply locate the second-longest mark between the longer inch marks. Most vanity tops are 21 inches deep. So for measurements taken from the inside edge of an object, such as measuring the length of a wall from corner to corner, the tang slides back against the blade and the metal of the tang is added to account for the “missing” 1/16 of an inch. When the length stops, take a reading on the tape ... Find the length. Quickly seeing which of two objects is bigger, Seeing whether something will fit through a certain space, Keeping the tape available for multiple quick measurements, Keeping a certain distance "handy" to avoid having to re-measure. If it is, for instance, six inches at this point, then your wrist has a circumference of about six inches. ... Reading the tape measure is of course one of the most important skills to pick up when using these tools. Then, look at the point where the tape meets the end of the item you're measuring and read the nearest large number. References Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. As I mentioned above, you read the measuring tape from left to right, so the first mark when going to the right is the 1″ mark and then continuing to the right we get to the 2″ mark. Steps of Reading a Steel Measuring Tape. It’s a common mistake when taking inside measurements (such as the inside width of a bookshelf) to pull the blade out further than necessary and then bend it to fit against one side of the object while the tang is pushed against the other side. Most US tape measures have both inches and foot marks. Step 4: Notice the metric side Notice the metric side of the tape measure. in the inches column of the tape? Just line the tool up with whatever you're measuring, make sure the "zero" mark is aligned with the edge of the object being measured and then read along the ruler, measuring tape or meter stick until you reach the far edge of the object being measured. The ring or other device is fastened to the tape by a metal strip of the same width as the metric woven tape. The 1/2″ marks is the next largest and falls halfway between the 1″ marks. In the example below, we are measuring to the arrow. Measuring tapes in the United States and Canada usually have both metric and … Steps of Reading a Steel Measuring Tape. WELCOME TO FREEMANS MEASURES. Metric tape measures often use special symbols, such as red numbers, for every 10 centimeters or 100 centimeters (1 meter), but often do not have a unique symbol for each meter. The tape measure is one of the most convenient tools for measuring lengths and distances nowadays, yet reading a tape measure can be tricky! wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. If your tape is marked with the English or Standard system, it will be broken into inches. Timothy Dale, 11 Decorative Pillow Trends to Expect in 2021, 10 Things You Never Thought to Keep in Your Car, Sweet Dreams: 15 Inventive Beds You Can Make Yourself, 14 House Problems That Don't Require a General Contractor, 17 Creative Ways to Reuse Cardboard Boxes, Ugly Appliance? Twelve of these equal one foot. Copyright © 2020 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Add to cart. One meter (39 inches) is a similar measurement to the yard above, but use your arm with fingers extended and measure to the tip of the fingers. On a metric tape you will basically see markings for meters, centimeters, and millimeters. It is indicated by a 1m. Measure a length with the yard stick or tape measure. What are the Tape Measure Markings The measuring tape has got a number of lines indicating specific measurements. Cloth measuring tape 2. Since extensometers are one of the most significant monitoring instruments, let us give you a better insight into its working principle, construction, specifications, and application areas. Laser tape measures are alternatives to traditional metal tape measures; they're used to calculate lengths, widths and heights of up to about 650 feet (198 meters).They're generally considered accurate to within an eighth of an inch (3 millimeters) when measuring a distance of up to 300 feet (91.5 meters). Different types of measuring tapes used in sewing 1 The regular measuring tape. Just line the tool up with whatever you're measuring, make sure the "zero" mark is aligned with the edge of the object being measured and then read along the ruler, measuring tape or meter stick until you reach the far edge of the object being measured. ", "Helps me in reading imperial tape measurements.". Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Many are 3". That's why these bodies are carefully designed and marked to a certain width. Watch Now: How to Read a Tape Measure. When you reach the other corner push the butt of the tape case into the corner (the butt or back of the case has been flattened for this purpose). This has made me feel confident in doing the tasks at home that I have avoided, "Thank you for the methods of measurement, it really helped me. When reading a tape measure, find the closest whole inch to the end point. You can learn more about the difference between Class 1 and Class 2 tape measures by reading our article – The Advantages of a Class 1 Tape Measure. The following is a quick overview on how to properly read a measuring tape in daily use. Thank you, wikiHow. As you may know it, there are two main systems for measuring length – the Imperial System of Measurements where things are measured in yards, feet and inches and the Metric System of Measurement which uses meters, centimeters and millimeters.. How to Use a Tape Measure Start by putting the end tab at one end of the item or space you want to measure, then pull out the tape until you get to the other end. After the number 17, count four lines, noticing that you stop on the third longest line. The tape measure can be marked with US or English measurements (feet and inches), metric measurements (meters and parts of meters: centimeters, millimeters, etc) or both shared on the same tape. % of people told us that this article helped them. When reading a tape measure, the edge of the object may fall between two lines on the blade. As the length of the marks progressively shortens, the measurements shorten, as well. The hole in the tang can also be used to make perfect circles, great if you’re crafting a lazy susan, or round tabletop. and I believe that this is the best outline on how to read a tape measure. Metric tape measures. The 5 mm mark indicates 5 mm and indicates a half centimeter (0.5 cm). Each measuring unit is represented by a small marking line. Your support helps wikiHow to create more in-depth illustrated articles and videos and to share our trusted brand of instructional content with millions of people all over the world. Select a meter stick ruler or tape measure with meters (m) or centimeters (cm) printed on it. Measuring tape is pretty straightfoward, but there's no shame in getting a tad disoriented. The initials FT or ft mean "foot" or "feet". The distance between every line on the tape measure is 1/16 of an inch. Add to cart. There are also some that combine the two systems in one measuring tape. Knowing how to use and read both a retractable measure and a traditional ribbon-style tape measure can be a major asset to anyone working with his or her hands, so learn today and start measuring! We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. Thanks. ", "We can use it for training purposes. [1] X Research source Every 12 inches, there will often (but not always) be a foot marking. If the increment on the tape measure is not labeled, then determine the marking’s increment and calculate the respective fraction and length. 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters; therefore, "n" centimeters = n x 2.54. To avoid cutting too short, always round up to the larger measurement. There are two types of rulers: the inch ruler, which has 12 big numbers on it (1 for each inch), and the metric ruler, which has 30 big numbers on it (1 for each centimeter). A tape measure basically uses a specific measurement system. Complete the rotation and you should have a perfect circle. This article has been viewed 2,909,813 times. There are 100 centimeters in a meter and 10 millimeters in a centimeter. You are probably familiar with rulers, meter sticks, tape rules, folding rules, and tape measures.You will also find rulers on many machines such as saws, sewing machines, photocopiers, and paper cutters. Note that some very precise measuring tapes will mark down to one-thirty-second of an inch or even one-sixty-fourth of an inch! 1. Slowly allow the blade to return to the housing. Meterk Laser Tape Measure 2 in 1, Laser Measure 131.2Ft/40M, Measuring Tape 16.5Ft/5M, Multifunctional Laser Distance Meter with Type-C Charging and LCD Digital Display for Measuring Area/Volume 4.2 out of 5 stars 328 Most US tape measures have both inches and foot marks. Safety Tips Measure a length. 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