The inch number is 2, so our measurement is 2-⅜. As you pass the 12 inch mark, you see that there are now red numbers above the black numbers which start over at 1. Whatever mark the measurement lands on, that will be your bottom number. For example, the 16, 32, 64 inch numbers are are all highlighted red. [1] X Research source Every 12 inches, there will often (but not always) be a foot marking. Recognize the marks on the top of the tape measure. Next, count how many lines, that size and larger there are between the 2 and the arrow. We found that the most common measuring tapes are either divided all the way down to sixteenths…. The fact is, it’s not as hard to really learn how to really learn how to read a tape measure. Hopefully we’ve moved beyond that childhood fear. ANY REDISTRIBUTION OR REPRODUCTION OF PART OR ALL OF THE CONTENTS OF THE SITE IN ANY FORM IS PROHIBITED UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED IN OUR, Deciphering the Marks on a Measuring Tape, Hand Embroidery Inspiration with Amy Barickman of Indygo Junction, Stenciled Bridesmaid Aprons with Fabric Depot, Quilted Flannel Christmas Stocking with Sherpa Cuff. We know the bottom number will be /8 because of the size of the line (see photo above). Plug in the 3 on top and we now have 3/8. But if you step back for a moment, and look at that tape measure (or ruler for that matter) with the eyes of a new sewer, all those little unidentified marks might seem a bit intimidating. How to Read a Sewing Measuring Tape Step 1. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. A bit of caution here: These are spring loaded. It is designed to compensate for the 1/16 of an inch thickness of the tip/hook. Before we dive into how to read  tape measure increments , let’s go over the lay of the land. If its your finger, it will get pinched, and it will hurt. We know the bottom number will be /8 because of the size of the line (. Use the PDF download link below each image to print good quality copies for yourself and a set for a new sewing friend. My guess is that many of you are in the same boat as me. Each size mark has a name. An inch can be divided into 8, 16, or even 32 parts. Despite not being a tape measure in the … In addition, we show a simple conversion chart from inches to millimeters. Whilst the length of most tapes is printed on the case, it is a legal obligation for manufacturers to print it on the blade as well. Download them to keep handy at your sewing station as quick reference tools. 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. Step 2. Unfortunately, many of us don’t know how to properly read a tape measure, let alone know what all of the tape measure increments really mean. If its your finger, it will get pinched, and it will hurt. See more ideas about Tape measure, Sewing hacks, Woodworking tips. Now plug the 9 in as the top number. Be the first to see new projects and patterns, helpful techniques, and new resources to enhance your sewing experience. Bosch GLM 20 Compact Blaze Laser Distance Measure. Thanks again☺. ... Sewing. Article from unexpectedelegance.com. On the blade you see a cornucopia of numbers, letters, lines, colors and shapes. Mar 3, 2017 - Have you ever really learned how to READ A TAPE MEASURE? 3. Typically, in residential construction, framing is spaced 16 inches apart. We deal in fractions every day and are forever measuring quarters and eighths and sixteenths and whatnot. In my experience, I have found that the 25’ or 30’ tape measures are too big and clunky for my liking. A tape measure is an essential tool for both dressmakers and woodworkers. A tape measure can be calibrated either in inches, feet and yards or in metric units, or both. Each one of these serves a purpose and can be very useful to you in your DIY, home repairs and remodeling projects. (within reason, of course!). If you have any questions about how to read a tape measure, or you would like me to clarify anything I’ve shared, please contact me. Don’t let this overwhelm you. When you hook it onto the end of a board and pull, it will move away from the end of the tape 1/16 of an inch, therefore compensating for the thickness of the hook. I will study the chart to become more familiar with the measuring tape. Length. Enter your email address below to subscribe to the Sew4Home newsletter. Explore. There are 12 inches in a foot. These are the incremental markings that measure inches, starting from the end of the tape. From largest to smallest they are  /2,  /4,  /8,  /16 or  /32. Read on to find out more about the entire team and the philosophy behind our inspiring sewing tutorials – each designed to result in items you’ll be proud to keep, display, and use; give as gifts; or even sell. Let go, and it should return on its own into the housing. Find/read the markings. To really know how to read a tape measure correctly, it’s important to really understand how to read the smaller tape measure increments. Inches… The longest lines on a ruler or tape measure represent the inch markings — for example, 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, and so forth: Halves… This is not good! my post about free printable tape measures, The Best Digital Tape Measure For Homeowners. For this post, we’ll be using my own tape measure, which is a Stanley 16 ft Power-Lock and uses Imperial Units (inches, feet) as opposed to the Metric system of measurements (centimeters, meters). Need to find a stud to anchor that 30 lb piece of wall art you bought at the garage sale last weekend? Typical tape measures are … As the length of the marks progressively shortens, the measurements shorten, as well. For example, you could either say the distance in this example is 17 inches or you could say it is 1 foot 5 inches. As the increments decrease, so does the length of the mark. If you’ve been sewing forever, and work with fractions every day, it may seem crazy to you that someone wouldn’t know how to read a measuring tape. Hi Monique – You’d be surprised how often we hear this. For this post, we’ll be using my own tape measure, which is a, In the example below, we are measuring to the arrow. 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Someone needed help figuring out what all those tiny marks are on a standard tape is! Measures will use black arrows to represent the 16 inch spacing as framing is 16! Corner of a wall, it will get pinched, and it should return its! You so that you will end up with a custom-sized garment that fits perfectly! Measure loosely around the body part you are in the example below, we may an...