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How to Read a Tape Measure



woodworking tricks of the trade

This article will teach you how to read a tape measurement for inches or millimeters. We'll also talk about how to get accurate measurements using the Metric version of a tape measure. This will allow you to accurately measure any surface. This article will show you how to measure any surface accurately, whether it's the length of a fence or the width of your doorway.

Metric tapes show millimeters

Metric tape measures are usually divided in 10 millimeters. However, those that measure inches are often divided in quarters, eighths, and sixteenths. A metric tape measure will however allow for more precise measurements. Although there is much confusion regarding how to read tape measurements, it is easy to understand their workings. These are some tips to help guide you in reading a tape measure.


carpentry measurements

Imperial tapes indicate inches

Indicators on Imperial tape measure inches and centimeters are shown in two different ways. One tape measure measures inches in the smallest increments and the other displays centimeters. The smallest increment for an imperial tape measure generally is 1/16'. In metric, 10mm is the smallest increment. This makes the imperial scaling more precise, even though tape measures are often marked in inches. Here are some ways you can tell which tape measurement to use when measuring something.


Metric tapes show fractions 1 inch

The blade of metric tape measures is marked with the equivalent fractions in inches. These tapes can be marked as small as one-quarter of an inch. Measurements that exceed the markings of half an inch can be done by looking at the halfway mark between the 1/2-inch mark (and the next marking). The same technique works for fractions of one quarter-inch and half-inch. Lay the metric tape measure along the desired length to read it. The tape measure should be aligned perfectly to ensure accurate measurement.

Measurements that are accurate

These steps will help you get precise measurements using a tape measure: Always read the markings on the tape measure starting at the top. This will avoid any confusions between the two measurements. If a shelf measures 1 inch in length, the tape will show that the tape measure reads as 1 inch. The markings may not be on the top so you will need to measure the length from the sides. You will need to subtract one-fourth inch from the measurement.


face frames

Selecting a tape measurement

A tape measure is essential to many projects. And a good tool only works if the user uses it. It is important to know how to read a tape-measure correctly. The correct type of tape-measure can make a difference between a successful project and a disaster. It is important to know a few key points when selecting a tape measurement. Firstly, it's important to know how the measurement scale works. The tape measure blade is made up of many confusing symbols that can be stretched out.




FAQ

Where can I buy hardwood lumber?

Home Depot sells hardwood lumber. They carry a variety of wood products such as flooring, cabinets, and furniture.

A large variety of engineered hardwoods is available to them, including Ipe (Araucaria Angustifolia), Brazilian Cherry and Peau d'Arco.

These woods can also be purchased online by simply searching Google for "hardwood timber"


How much money does a hobbyist have to put into getting started?

If you're looking to start your own woodworking business, you'll probably need some capital to buy the necessary tools and supplies. A good place to start would be by buying a small table saw, drill press, circular saw, jigsaw, and sanding machine. These items don't cost much so they won't break your budget.


How do I know what tools are best suited for me?

It's important that you consider your needs and preferences while shopping for tools. Do you prefer metal or plastic handles? What size screws and nails do you use most often? Do you prefer to use hand tools or power tools?



Statistics

  • In 2014, there were just over 237,000 jobs for all woodworkers, with other wood product manufacturing employing 23 percent; wood kitchen cabinets and countertop manufacturing employing 21 percent. (theartcareerproject.com)
  • Woodworkers on the lower end of that spectrum, the bottom 10% to be exact, make roughly $24,000 a year, while the top 10% makes $108,000. (zippia.com)
  • Overall employment of woodworkers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. (bls.gov)
  • If your lumber isn't as dry as you would like when you purchase it (over 22% in Glen Huey's opinion…probably over 10-15% in my opinion), then it's a good idea to let it acclimate to your workshop for a couple of weeks. (woodandshop.com)



External Links

ziprecruiter.com


en.wikipedia.org


amazon.com


bls.gov




How To

Tips for driving a nail in wood

It is essential to pick the right size and style of hammer before you can drive a nail in wood. The most commonly used types of Hammers are claw hammers. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses. A claw hammer, for example, is the best choice if you need to hit nails hard. However, it's not easy to know exactly where the impact will land. A sledgehammer allows you to hit large areas simultaneously, but it is too heavy and cumbersome to use for small tasks.

After choosing the right hammer, place your hand flat against the side of the head so that the handle rests comfortably in your palm. Hold the handle in your hand, but don’t force it too hard that you break. Your wrist should be relaxed while you hold the hammer straight upwards. Next, swing the hammer toward the ground and aim for the nail's center. You should feel the impact of the hammer striking the nail. You can practice swinging the hammer with a block or wood until you feel the rhythm.

The hammer should be held close to your body when you are ready to begin driving the nail. Place the nail so that it is perpendicular with the wood's surface. Your eyes should be focused on the nail's tip. Then, swing the hammer forward. Next, follow the motion of your hammerhead. Continue this motion several times, slowly increasing the speed of each swing. Try adding power to your swings when you've mastered the technique. To make it more powerful, hold the hammer up high to your shoulder and then bring it down. This way, you'll be able to put more energy behind your blows.

Once you have successfully drilled the first hole in the nail, remove the hammer. To remove the remainder of the nails, you can use a screwdriver/pry bar. You should ensure that the nails are flush with the board's surface to avoid splitting the wood.




 



How to Read a Tape Measure