Tape Measures

Tape measures are tools that are used to measure length or distance. They consist of a flexible strip of cloth, plastic, metal, or fiberglass that is marked with units such as inches or centimeters. Tape measures are common measuring tools that can be rolled up for easy storage and portability.

• Spring return pocket tape measures: These are small tape measures that can fit in a pocket and have a spring mechanism that retracts the tape into the case. They usually have a tape of 1 to 15 feet (0.3 to 4.6 m) in length and 1/4 to 3/4 inch (6.4 to 19.1 mm) across.
• Long tape measures: These are large tape measures that have a long tape of 25 to 700 feet (7.6 to 213.4 m) in length and are used for engineering and surveying. They usually have a hand crank that returns the tape into the case.
• Sewing tape measures: These are flexible tape measures that are made of cloth or fiberglass and are used for tailoring or dressmaking. They can measure around curves or corners and are usually 60 inches (152.4 cm) long.
• Self-marking tape measures: These are tape measures that have a built-in marking device such as a pencil or a blade that can mark the measured point on the surface.

To use a tape measure, you need to follow these steps:

• Pull out the tape measure blade and hook the tang onto the edge of the object you want to measure.
• Once the tang is secure, pull at the casing to expand the tape measure and stop it where the object ends, or your desired measurement is reached.
• Press the lock button on the front of the casing to prevent the tape from retracting or extending further.
• Read the measurement on the blade where it meets the end of the object or your desired point. The nearest line on the blade to that point is the final measurement.
• Release the lock button and retract the tape back into the casing by pressing a lever or letting it slide back automatically.

To use a tape measure, you need to follow these steps:

• Use the base of the housing as a quick measuring tool for short distances. The length of the housing is usually marked on its base for easy reference.
• Use the hole in the tang to latch onto screws or nails and draw circles. Latch on, lock the measure, and hold a pen against the casing.
• Use the edges on the tang to make marks on the surface you are measuring. They can be used as a small knife or a pencil.
• Use the back of the casing to measure tight spaces. The length of the casing is usually marked on its back, so you don’t have to curl the tape.