Tape Measure: A Toolbox Must-have

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One item I never leave my toolbox without is a tape measure. And I am sure no homeowner can also live without one. In fact, I prefer having two kinds of tape measure for different uses: one made of thin steel and the other one made of a softer material. The former is for practically any measurable solid object and the latter is used for measuring fabric. Nobody would dispute that these devices are inexpensive, yet very flexible, handy and portable.

A tape measure is relatively very easy and safe to use. Even a kid big enough to know the different units of measurements like inches, centimeters, millimeters, meters can use a measuring tape without difficulty. All one needs to do is extend the tape from the top point, placing it at the spot where you want to start your measurement, and roll the tape until you reach the end of your span of measurement.

Most steel tapes have an end-clip that you can attach to any fixed object so you don't have to stretch your arms. This means you can keep the top point in place just in case you are measuring spans wider than your reach. I also prefer those steel tapes with tension-control brakes that could lock the blade in place so I don't have to hold the case and keep the blade from rolling back or from retracting.

Steel tape measures are perfect for woodworking and other home improvement projects. I use one that I got from a local hardware store to measure windows, doors, and the dimensions of a particular room or a particular piece of furniture.

The cloth-type measuring tape, on the other hand, comes in handy when I need to do some quick and easy measuring. It's what I use when I need to sew a skirt for my daughter, or when I need to measure fabric for new curtains or new table runners. I cannot even sew buttons to a handmade blouse without a tape measure telling me how far apart each button should be from one another. Aside from fabric measurement, you can use this to keep track if youre shedding some extra pounds. Use it to check if youve lost some inches off your waist, arms or legs.

Needless to say, a tape measure is a device with thousands of practical uses. And have I mentioned that every decent homeowner or homemaker should have one handy? Yes, I have, but I don't think I can point that out enough.


About the Author:
M. Strong is a do-it-yourself guy and home remodeling enthusiast. Learn more about measuring tapeat US Tape.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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