measuring tape

A measuring tape is a flexible form of ruler.It consists of a ribbon of cloth, plastic,fiber glass,or metal strip with linear-measurement markings.It is a common measuring tool. Its flexibility allows for a measure of great length to be easily carried in pocket or toolkit and permits one to measure around curves or corners.Today it is ubiquitous, even appearing in miniature form as a keychain fob,or novelty item.Surveyors use tape measures in lengths of over 100 m (300+ ft).

 

Measuring tapes that were intended for use in tailoring or dressmaking were made from flexible cloth or plastic.Today,measuring tapes made for sewing are made of fiberglass,which does not tear or stretch as easily.Measuring tapes designed for carpentry or construction often use a stiff,curved metallic ribbon that can remain stiff and straight when extended, but retracts into a coil for convenient storage.This type of measuring tape will have a floating tang on the end to aid measuring.The tang will float a distance equal to its thickness,to provide both inside and outside measurements that are accurate.A measuring tape of 25 or even 100 feet can wind into a relatively small container.The self-marking tape measure allows the user an accurate one hand measure and mark without an outside devise.