This guide will show you how to read a tape measure. Be careful when retracting a tape measure. 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. I have to be honest, even though I use a tape measure fairly often (were talking at least twice a week) I still have to think really hard about what measurement Im looking at. Tape measures can be used in many areas, such as when cutting wood, when used on edges or on the construction site. The tape is made of a flexible material and has a scale. First things first, let's go over the basics of a tape measure. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. mark is 15/16. Unless its the first -inch mark on your tape measure, always add the full inch that came right before it to the measurement. The tape is made of a flexible material and has a scale. size There are 10mm in each centimetre (shown by the ten spaces between each cm) and 100cm in each metre. Add those to the whole inches for your total measurement. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This means you can measure up to 1/16 of an inch. This can vary for each tape measure. If you want to understand better how to read a tape measure you can also watch this video: You can use a tape measure to cut melamine without chipping. ", measurements. Step 2: Just Cut and Mark! If you need more precision than 1/16-inch, do what builders do and note a slight adjustment with terms like take the line (meaning take a bit more off when you cut) or plus a hair (meaning add a hairs width the measurement, or about 1/32-inch). Trust me, its not as complicated as it seems You can do this! 2000-2022 Home Depot. I'm really glad that there are websites like this to help people all around the world. Use this chart above and even an easy read tape measure to accurately define your measurement. For fractions of inches, it can help to count up or down from the larger marks. Divide the value by 2.54 cm. 1', 10') One inch (1") Half inch (1/2") Quarter inch (1/4") Eighth inch (1/8") Sixteenth inch (1/16") Expert Interview. In many cases these measurements are abbreviated, so 6 4 1/4 means six feet four and a quarter inches. You can breakthrough that memory barrier by investing in this affordable and detailed eBook that not only identifies the direct parts of an inch but also provides additional tips for memorizing them. Reading the tape is a leading indicator, not like charts and indicators where they are based on past data. In other words they're in centimetres and milimetres. Halfway between the 1/4 marks and the 1/2 marks we find the 1/8 marks. To know how to read a tape measure, you need to consider switching from long marks to short marks. For example, you can say 12 x 1 inchat the mark of a foot. acnh Home Improvement, Woodworking Home Home Improvement Knowing how to read a tape measure in its entirety is really important if you are doing any kind of woodworking or home project. I've started thinking about Mother's Day, have you. If youre not measuring for wall studs or roofing, dont worry about any of these markings since you wont need to use them. I sure beats having to write it 1,000 times. Each represents one inch. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. While a standard tape reading might be 7-3/8-in., plus a hair, the same measurement in metric would be 188 mm.. Since you started at the end of the tape (at 0) this will give you the length of the item you are measuring. Most measurements are taken in millimeters. Great! To measure, you lay out the tape along the corresponding route and then read off the scale. Here is a step by step guide how to do that! Skip to Content. Increment. Pull the tape out, press the lock down, and the tape stays where it is until you release the lock. This is basic math. Reading a Tape Measure. To assume everyone is into difficult msth is not helpful. To draw a perfect circle, anchor the tape measures hook slot onto an anchor point. classic Get your answers by asking now. For example, if the measurement is two marks beyond the 5/10 center mark towards the 7 inch mark, the measurement is read as 6-7 / 10 inches. This is too funny. Almost yours: 2 weeks, on us Read the full disclosure here. If you are remodeling or building a home, reading a tape measure accurately is essential.yet when it is stretched out, a tape measure is a jumble of numbers, marks, diamonds, and other confusing symbols. The metric system is in base ten, which makes it much easier to work with decimals compared to fractions in imperial measurements. For imperial units, use the longest marks to measure inches. dungeon However, if we want to keep the tape stopped in place we can press the lock or stop button. You can buy them in lengths of 10 feet, 16 feet, 25 feet, 30 feet, 33 feet, 35 feet, 40 feet and so on. The shorter the length of the markings, the shorter the dimensions. 2. buying As the increments decrease, so does the length of the mark. Read only the top half of the tape. Did you know you can get expert answers for this article? Look at the big number that is nearest to, but before the mark you are trying to read. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\n<\/p><\/div>"}. This is much better, but am still a bit confused. 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. To start the stop button is attached to aflat springthat is wrapped from a post inside the housing. I use metric in my science classes which is so much easier!! Method 1 Inches and Feet (Imperial) 1 Find the longest, numbered lines to measure full inches. Find the nearest full measurement and add the length from the smaller markings. 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. board is 122 inches. Most standard tapes have a special mark, such as an arrow, at each foot. So, i thought we could do a little: Read a tape measures incremental marks for the metric system. 1 1/2 in . For example, take a look at these three images: Looking at the image above, a series of large numbers marked 1, 2, 3, and 4 are displayed. Is there an easier way? youtube, 0 Replies to How To Read Tape Measure For Dummies. However if the measurement is expressed in millimeters (mm), then multiply the number by 10 to get the equivalent cm. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Home Tools, Gear & Equipment Tools & Supplies Tape Measures & Rulers. Most Popular Posts of 2014 & My Favortites, 4 FREE Phone Wallpapers (Perfect for When You are Trying to Loss Weight) . We are not at the half inch mark yet so we skip this. 1 inch = 16 x 1/16 inch, 8 x 1/8 inch, 4 x 1/4 inch, or 2 x 1/2 inch. It is important to mention that depending on how wide the tape is, the harder it will be. right on the measuring tape, Genious! This varies from measuring tape to measuring tape. Tip: Stay accurate by measuring the indicator lines themselves, not the numerals on the tape. x 80.25 in. Using the tape you are able to gauge players psychology and imbalances in supply and demand. In my defense I had never been taught what all the little lines meant. These are usually marked with a different color or indicated differently. These are usually marked with long, thin lines and fairly large numbers as you can see in the image above. I get so frustrated when doing projects that require careful measuring! Look at the numbers. Metric is the system of reason and universitality. Heres an example of markings on a quick read or easy read measuring tape: See how the bottom edge on this image gives you all of the mark labels down to the 1/8 size? eg. We can basically define the tape as the yellow spiral rule that can be wide or thin. This silly, A year ago I was spending a LOT of time in Illinoi, AD: My guest bathroom needed a little update befor, I FINALLY got my Christmas home tour up on the blo, When my Yorkiepoo has a ball and doesnt want an, #sponsored Have you decorated for Christmas? Start Woodworking Now is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. ). It will be a whole number. I knew the the basics1/4, 1/2, 3/4 and inches, but the other lines were always a mystery. Use it to lock your tape out so you can measure without having to hold the end of the tape. Made of metal, the Dummy product features a locking mechanism and will set you back $5.99. Try to keep the tape straight to ensure an accurate measurement! Counting over from the 3 mark, we see that its 11/16. Yep. This type of easy read tape measure can be a great option for a beginner because it makes it easier to recognize the marking dimensions. [], [] As a reference here is how a tape measure is broken down into 16ths. "I've always taught that using a measuring tape was difficult because of all the minuscule lines on the tape, "Your article shows the exact points on making reading a ruler so easy. After each foot marking, the numbers next to each inch mark will either repeat from 1 - 11 again or keep counting to 13, 14, 15, and so on. So, I thought we could do a little: How To Read a Tape Measure 101. Count to the second eighth-inch mark after the inch mark this is the quarter inch (and the right-over line on the other side of the half-inch mark is the three-quarter inch. Oh my gosh Rachel I was laughing as I was reading the beginning of your post, it sounded like you were describing me!! No more wondering what are all the markings on a tape measure? guide episode Finally, you should know that every certain distance you will finda prominent mark, usually in red, thatindicates the measurement of meters or feet. Here's How to Measure Accurately, Easy Ways to Measure Liquids When You Dont Have a Measuring Cup. Hey, this is a great idea, wish I would of thought of that. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. In an effort to make this the least confusing as possible, were going to simply start with the largest measurement (1) and work our way down to the smallest measurement (1/16). This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. It makes marking off cuts a piece of cake (or so they claim)!!! Place the tip of the measuring tape on one end of the item and measure its length at the opposite end. 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. Reading a tape measure add the number next to the large tick with the fraction to get the measurement. Reading a tape measure is a skill you can easily master. But, be aware that having all that information on the small tape means the fonts are much smaller and it can be hard to read these measurements from far away. The number of lines between inch marks indicate how precise you can get with your tool. Determine the type of measurement you will be taking. Count the marks past the center mark if the measurement is past the center mark by 1/2 inch. This really helped us both. Thanks for sharing this amazing information it will be really helpful for me. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This is marked in red on many tape measures. I printed your download and going to laminate for reference, You are a lifesaver! Mostly utilize imperial measurements, which means that you measure in feet, inches and fractions of inches. Standard tapes measure inches and feet. Home Improvement Specialist. You just have to know the relationship between inches and centimeters. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Doing a bit better but would never be able to simply read a tape meadure by memory. 3 More Images. Paula, I think having it in my workshop would be great!! The middle one is long to indicate 5. Press the end of the measuring tape onto one end of the item you are measuring. The 1 marks are easy to spot because they are the largest marks on the tape and are labeled by the large numbers. VDOMDHTMLtml> HOW TO READ A MEASURING TAPE | HOW TO READ A TAPE MEASURE (Detailed tutorial) - YouTube Today's video is to show you how to read a measuring tape. Now, what line did you land on at the end? To put it simply 1 = 1 , 2 = 2 ,etc. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'startwoodworkingnow_com-leader-1','ezslot_17',600,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-startwoodworkingnow_com-leader-1-0');Remember: you want to read the measurement larger to smaller. You're signed up! My daughter sent this to me and I LOL!! Use the same pattern to recognize these tiny measurements. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'startwoodworkingnow_com-leader-3','ezslot_11',186,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-startwoodworkingnow_com-leader-3-0');2. A tape measure is a length of tape (usually a bendable metal) with markings (or ticker marks or lines) on it at certain intervals that you use to measure. When you push it up against the object on an inside measurement, the hook pushes flush against the tape so its width doesnt affect your measurement. To convert an inch to centimeters you just have to multiply the value by 2.54 centimeters. Measuring must be geometry and thst is far out of my ballpark. The belt clip is the fastener on the side of the case. . It allows you to hook your tape measure conveniently onto a belt. Plus, you can download our free printable cheat sheet to use as a reference while you work! I only wish those that write these understand that there will always be some who still cannot grasp it. cable The typical length between studs in a wall is 16 inches on center. A good example is the builders perennial favorite, the Stanley PowerLock. To measure, you lay out the tape along the corresponding route and then read off the scale. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. tonight The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Cabinet Talk 1.41K subscribers Subscribe 1.6K Share 84K views 1 year ago This video is for beginners who want to learn the basics of reading and using a tape measure and is part of our. ", How to Read a Tape Measure in Inches or Centimeters, Unlock expert answers by supporting wikiHow, https://5.imimg.com/data5/GW/LJ/AM/SELLER-2044578/freemans-measuring-tapes.pdf, https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-use-a-tape-measure/, https://www.accessibilityguides.org/sites/default/files/pictures/How-to-take-accurate-measurements-for-your-accessibility-guide3.pdf, https://www.unl.edu/synergycurriculum/Documents/Prevocational-Instructors/Teacher%20Module%202,%20Unit%201.pdf, https://undeniablebajinya.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/taking-measurements.pdf. The tape cases size is often printed on the back of the case. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. This allows the tape to give an accurate inside and outside measurement. I can do simple fractions but very simple. "These examples on how to read a tape measure really helped me refresh my memory on how to make accurate. minecraft Thanks for this! Next, determine which side of the half mark between the numbers your measurement sits on. On the other hand, at the back of the shell we will find a clip that is used for the belt, which facilitates access while working. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Woodworking projects, plans and DIY tutorials to built almost ANY woodworking project. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. 3. We'll walk you through what each line represents on your tape measure so you can accurately find the size of any object. It is usually plastic or metal and about 3 inches in length. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. To successfully remove crayon stains from wood, you will need to. Every single line on the tape measure can be broken down into 16ths. Therefore, the shortest numerical unit is the centimeter. [1] The actual tape or blade is usually yellow or white. crossing If we take a look at image below , the first small mark after the 4 cm point denotes a measurement of 41 mm. First, note that as the measurement values get smaller, so do the markings. Before we dive into how to read tape measure increments , lets go over the lay of the land. Usually (but not always) after every 12 inches you will find a onefootmark. I struggle (or struggled until recently) to read a tape measure. Joyful Derivatives DIY Home Improvement. 25K 1.6M views 7 years ago Explains how to read a ruler with 16th increments. How to Read a Tape Measure in Inches Standard or SAE tape measures clearly show feet, inches and fractions of inches. For example, write out 0.5 centimeters instead of centimeters. 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. I have a confession!! I totally have been needing this info! (Pretty embarrassing, right!) Then examine leftover indicator lines to see what fractions of an inch remain. Reading a tape measure quiz for 6th grade students. If I had to measure something that didnt fall withinone of those marks I would just mark the tape measure with a pencil or count the linesyou know it might be 32 and 3 little lines. So my question is why are you reading it if its below your standards? In the photo above, our tape read 17 7/8. For metric units, measure centimeters with the longest markings. And you can of course buy an easy read tape measure to make it even easier! Every tape measure has a lock to keep the tape from pulling back into the housing. When in doubt, count the total number of lines between the inch markings to know how far its subdivided. Make sure the tape measure is evenly aligned for an exact measurement. This article has 18 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. I like the post a lot! guides The tapes are also curved to maintain their structure, even when stretched to great lengths. 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. Laser distance measurers can often measure accurately within 1/16 inch. I avoided quilt patterns that included 1/8, 3,8 etc. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. In addition to the easy read and standard tape measures discussed above, there are a few other non-traditional measuring tapes you can use for projects too. That is how many inches you are measuring. Required fields are marked *. Since we are on the subject, I though you might like to know about this particularQuickDraw Self-Marking Tape Measure! Start by identifying how many full inches you have. It is 2 inches x 2.54 is 5.08 cm. To read a measuring tape, line the zero mark up at the edge of the item you're measuring, then stretch the tape all the way across the item. Youve learned what the markings on a tape measure mean, how to choose the right tape measure to buy, and how to read a tape measure. free I am an avid DIYer with a passion for making my house a home. Thats amazing information, Thanks for sharing and love your site. Thanks, Kevin! We will refer to this as the "big inch". Its got two simple and easy-to-understand diagrams that will help you quickly identify your measurements when youre working on your projects! Basically it prevents the tape from staying a part outside the casing when backing up.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'startwoodworkingnow_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_2',154,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-startwoodworkingnow_com-medrectangle-3-0'); We know as a box the part of the tape measure thatholds the tape,which can be made of plastic or metal. The 1/16 marks split the 1/8 and 1/4 and the 1/32 marks are the smallest of all. chart years, and I believe that this is the best outline on how to read a tape measure. The mesurement is is indicated by. For example, if there are 16 total marks, then the smallest mark is 1/16-inch. For example, the half inch mark between three and four inches is synonymous with 3 1/2 inches, even though it is not labeled. The 1/2 marks is the next largest and falls halfway between the 1 marks. I hate math and flunked every course in high school. Find the foot (ft) mark (if what youre measuring is one foot or longer) that is closest to, or slightly less than the end of the object or distance you are measuring. Check to see if the size of the case is listed somewhere on your tape measure. These marks are in the middle of the one-inch marks, the quarter-inch marks are between the quarter-inch and half-inch marks, and so on. I created this diagram to show how the marks break down and match up: See how there are actually 16 small marks for the 1/16 measurements, theyre just blended with all the larger markers? Not sure How to read a tape measure. ), until you reach the exact measurement. Engage the thumb lock. This usually has a different color from the other marks, it is usually red, unlike normal black marks. We may earn a commission from your purchases. ", but after reading this article, I realized how easy it is to use a tape. When you use this link to visit our sponsor, you support us Ridge Carbide (Use coupon code SNWJ10): https://goo.gl/z8TP0kSubscribe (free) to Stumpy Nubs Wood. Was not sure about little markings, but, "Clear information, and useful tips. Examine the remaining indicator lines to see how many millimeters are left over. Numbers shown represent meters, decimeters (sometimes shown in red-see example picture), and centimeters. This has made me feel confident in doing the tasks at home that I have avoided. 2.1.1 How to Read a Tape Measure Step 1. 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. Note that if your divisions are in cm then the diameter you obtain will also be in cm, and the same happens with inches. Think about it like this each time the bottom of the fraction doubles, the distance between gets cut in half! Add those to the whole centimeters, using a decimal. The measurements on a tape measure are generally 16 marks to the inch. This post was super helpful and Ill definitely be ordering the easy-to-read measuring tapes! 4. then you need to click on the button below and download my printable cheat sheet! If so, then youve got this down! All of them have equally spaced markings indicating a measurement. Examine the markings on the tape measure that illustrate the lengths of the . wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. And I'm going to share the method that I think is the easiest way to learn how to read a measuring tape in inches. Ready to start your project? As you can see in the second image, a half-inch mark is always centered between the two one-inch marks. season But metric scales can be helpful for detailed work, with no fractions to deal with. Does the metal hook feel loose? Measurements. Ready to test your knowledge? Standard tape measures usually go from 15 to 50 feet. THE "COMPLETE" FULL INCH MARK It is important that you can read the Tape Measure forward and backwards. This little bit of knowledge is what I was missing. Heres the markings you need to know to get started: (Note that if you write inch or foot measurement as a number, you put for feet and inches).if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'startwoodworkingnow_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_10',155,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-startwoodworkingnow_com-medrectangle-4-0'); There are significantly more exact measurements that get even more precise 1/32 and so on, but for that in the tutorial were going to stick with those basics. Each inch is split into 4 -inch increments. If the model is made of steel, the scale is not printed on, but is usually engraved so it cannot wear out.