Tape Measure Accuracy
 

I just discovered that 2 of my 4 tape measures are not accurate. I compared the tapes to a quilting ruler and they were off by 1/4 inch. Which can cause problems at times. Just thought I'd pass this along.

I've heard that tape measures can stretch.

My goodness, I never thought of it. Next time I will use the carpenter's ruler that Jim gave me.

But they didn't stretch, they were SHORT 1/4 inch. Compared to my quilting ruler, at 21 inches the tapes measured 20.75 inches. Pretty sure this means my waist is 1/4 inch wider than I thought. Sheesh.

Lol! Sorry for laughing about your waist disappointment, but that's funny! Thanks for the heads-up on tape measures. I need to check mine.

i only use my tape measure for a general idea.

I mostly use my measuring tape for clothing. Since I use the same tape to measure my body and the pattern, it should come out okay.

I use my tape measure for doing borders. As long as I use the same tape consistently, there is no problem.

However, I've seen the same thing when my husband got a new measuring tape for his wood work. The darn thing was off and all the beams were cut short. Poor Pat thought he was losing his mind.

Keep that tape measure. Label it "For measuring body only!". ��

I don't use mine much for sewing but the hubs and I have 30 tape measures between us. That doesn't include rulers by any means. I have one in every purse. I use them often when I go to garage sales and need to take measurements.

I've also read to use the same ruler or at least the same rulers from the same company. Makes a difference.

Cloth tape measures are designed for apparel sewing. So, when they stretch out that 1/4", it really doesn't matter that much. Obviously, this is a very big deal for quilters. Having said that, I only buy quality (not the $1 bin) tape measures and I replace them every few years - along with my seam ripper! These tips I learned from a person who does alterations and it really was an improvement.

MadQuilter - apparently, this is a problem with some manufacturers of steel rule tapes as well, as your husband discovered. Which can REALLY be a potential hazard if you're a CARPENTER.

Tessagin - would you check several of your cloth tapes against a quilter's ruler? I have a hunch some of them will be "off". Unless you're too busy quilting (smile).