Welcome from a former Michigander. I started with a 6X24 ruler. and then bought a square later. I liked the ruler that has a lip on the end you can put against the cutting board and the ruler will always be squared on the board.
Where in Michigan? I grew up in Traverse City, spent my married life near Flint. Loving retirement in Utah. Dont miss the traffic or the winters. You will love this site.