How to read a tape measure in cm

How to read a tape measure in cm

I have a confession!! I struggle (or struggled until recently) to read a tape measure. In my defense I had never been taught what all the “little lines” meant. I knew the the basics…1/4, 1/2, 3/4 and inches, but the other lines were always a mystery. If I had to measure something that didn’t fall within one of those marks I would just mark the tape measure with a pencil or count the lines…you know it might be 32″ and 3 little lines. (Pretty embarrassing, right!) At the beginning of this instruction Angela posted that this was general information and that “you” should move on to your next project if this information doesn’t interest you. So my question is why are you reading it if it’s below your standards?.

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Doing a bit better but would never be able to simply read a tape meadure by memory. The larger lines yes but smaller will always need to be studied and counted and still may not get a measurement right. I realize unless good at math this is only minimally helpful and those like me will never be good at math. I only wish those that write these understand that there will always be some who still cannot grasp it. To assume everyone is into difficult msth is not helpful. Sooo happy to have come across your blog! I’m in the midst of my first woodworking class and am finding it all sorts of overwhelming…measuring being the most stressful parts. This post was super helpful and I’ll definitely be ordering the easy-to-read measuring tapes!

To read a tape measure, think about moving from long marks down to short marks. The longest mark indicates 1 inch. As the length of the marks progressively shortens, the measurements shorten, as well. Marks range from 1 inch down to 1/16 inch on most tape measures.When reading a tape measure, the edge of the object may fall between two lines on the blade. To avoid cutting too short, always round up to the larger measurement. At worst, you will need to measure and cut again, but that is far better than wasting a piece of material that’s 1/16 of an inch too short for your needs. (Source: www.bobvila.com)