Welcome to our discussion on the best tape measure for fine woodworking! Before we dive into our recommendations, let’s start by addressing some common questions about tape measures:
- What is a tape measure and what is it used for?
- How do I choose the best tape measure for my needs?
- What features should I consider when looking for a tape measure for fine woodworking?
A tape measure is a measuring tool that consists of a long, flexible strip of metal or fiberglass encased in a housing, with markings on it to indicate distance. It is commonly used to measure length, distance, or dimensions, and is especially useful in construction, carpentry, and other trades that involve cutting and fitting materials.
When choosing the best tape measure for fine woodworking, you should consider a few key factors: accuracy, durability, ease of use, and the type and size of markings on the tape.
You may also want to consider additional features, such as a locking mechanism to hold the tape in place, a belt clip for easy access, or a built-in level for added convenience.
With those questions in mind, let’s take a look at some of the top tape measures for fine woodworking.
Without any further hesitation, let’s dive in.
1
Starrett Tape Measure Stix with Adhesive Backing - Mount to Work Bench, Saw Table, Drafting Table...
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4
Starrett Tape Measure Stix with Adhesive Backing - Mount to Work Bench, Saw Table, Drafting Table...
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Discover the 10 Best Tape Measures for Fine Woodworking: Our Top Picks
Starrett Tape Measure Stix with Adhesive Backing - Mount to Work Bench, Saw Table, Drafting Table - 3/4" x 6', English Metric, Left-Right Reading - SM66ME
$10.43 in stock
7 new from $7.79
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 2, 2023 8:35 am
Features
- Mounting Capability - Starret Tape Measure Stix can be mounted on workbenches, saw tables, drafting tables, and more. Every stix has a permanent adhesive back that sticks to almost any work surface for convenient, at-a-glance measurements.
- Durable Material - Our adhesive backing tape measure is made from high-quality precision steel and a Polyurethane protective coating for extended service use.
- Make Measuring Easy - The tape measure stix easily cuts to proper size with scissors and reads left to right or right to left print orientation in English and Metric graduation styles.
- Accuracy You Can Count On - Starrett precision measuring tools exceed the accuracy and performance requirements of national and international standards. Providing fine precision tools for industrial, professional, and consumer markets worldwide.
- The Standard for Excellence - Manufacturing quality tools that provide consistent and reliable performance since 1880, Starrett's commitment has earned them a reputation as one of the most trusted names in the industry.
FastCap PSSR16 16 FastPad Standard Reverse Measuring Tape
$7.99 in stock
10 new from $7.99
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 2, 2023 8:35 am
Features
- Eraseable notepad
- 16' Standard and standard reverse rule
- Easy-read fractions to 1/16"
- Built-in pencil sharpener
Woodworking Shop Apron - 16 oz Waxed Canvas Work Aprons | Metal Tape holder, Fully Adjustable to Comfortably Fit Men Size S to XXL | Tough Tool Apron to Give Protection, Ideal Fathers Day GIft for Dad
$41.99
in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 2, 2023 8:35 am
Features
- ✅ Top quality 27 inches wide x 34 inches long full coverage apron protects you until the knee when you are working. If you've been looking for a premium quality heavy-duty work apron at an affordable price then your search is over. That's because our 16 oz waxed canvas apron is handcrafted, reinforced with grommets and rivets, double stitched tool pockets and thick top and bottom hems which means that it is incredibly durable. Also includes a safety glasses strap and metal tape holder
- ✅ Revolutionary. Unlike other aprons that are stiff and heavy as cardboard which cause you discomfort, our apron features a very tough but flexible material that gives you protection and still flexible enough to move comfortably. It also doesn't trap dust and prevent oils from soaking through to your clothes.
- ✅ A Fresh approach. The problem with other aprons is it causes neck and back pain as it hangs around your neck. Our product solves that problem because our apron is designed to hang over the shoulder which means that weight is distributed evenly over the shoulders. Never suffer neck and back pain again.
- ✅ Practical. Our Apron has strategically placed pockets so that you have everything you need close to hand instead of constantly search for them. Front pockets are deep and have ample space with flaps to keep out dust and can be tucked into pockets. The "cell phone pocket" is large enough to hold an iPhone 8+ with zip to prevent it from falling out when bending over.
- ✅ Unique. Because our apron has a quick release buckle and unique harness design which is easily and fully adjustable. That is great because it can adjust to fit any body frame and preference. Once you have it adjusted to your fit, taking it on and off is straightforward and it stays on well without slipping off.
Starrett Tape Measure Stix with Adhesive Backing - Mount to Work Bench, Saw Table, Drafting Table - 1/2" x 6', English Metric, Right-Left Reading - SM46WRL
out of stock
Amazon.com
as of March 2, 2023 8:35 am
Features
- Mounting Capability - Starret Tape Measure Stix can be mounted on workbenches, saw tables, drafting tables, and more. Every stix has a permanent adhesive back that sticks to almost any work surface for convenient, at-a-glance measurements.
- Durable Material - Our adhesive backing tape measure is made from high-quality precision steel and a Polyurethane protective coating for extended service use.
- Make Measurement Easier - The tape measure stix easily cuts to proper size with scissors and reads right to left print orientation in English and Metric graduation styles.
- Accuracy You Can Count On - Starrett precision measuring tools exceed the accuracy and performance requirements of national and international standards. Providing fine precision tools for industrial, professional, and consumer markets worldwide.
- The Standard for Excellence - Manufacturing quality tools that provide consistent and reliable performance since 1880, Starrett's commitment has earned them a reputation as one of the most trusted names in the industry.
Fastcap PMMR-FLAT16 Flatback 16 PMMR ProCarpenter measuring tape with metric graduations
$14.89 in stock
5 new from $14.63
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 2, 2023 8:35 am
Features
- Face it, not all surfaces are flat
- The FastCap ProCarpenter Flat Back measures curves and flat panels with precision and ease
- Available in a metric/standard story pole and the metric reverse blade style
- Lays flat on the surface you are measuring, great for panel lay-out work
- Allows you to do radius measurements
WIN TAPE Workbench Ruler Adhesive Backed Tape Measure - Left to Right - 60inch 152cm
$8.99
in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 2, 2023 8:35 am
Features
- Material: 100% eco-friendly material.
- Tape size: 152cm/60 inch
- Waterproof, clear markings, easy to clean, easy to use.
- Reed left to right
- Adhesive Backed Tape Measure--Reads left to right
MulWark 26ft Measuring Tape Measure by Imperial Inch Metric Scale with Both-Side Metal Blade,Magnetic Tip Hook and Shock Absorbent Case-for Construction,Contractor,Carpenter,Architect,Woodworking
$22.99
in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 2, 2023 8:35 am
Features
- ▲PREMIUM GRADE - This portable flexible retractable decimal measuring tape ruler(8m long, 25 mm wide, 0.15mm thick tape measure) is impact resistant, rust proof, chemical odor free and can horizontally stand out till 7ft and vertically till 13ft without the tape collapsing or snapping
- ▲VERSATILE WITH MAGNETIC HOOK - This easy-to-read double sided electrician ruler metal measure tape with fraction can stick to any ferrous material with the powerful magnet tip, which greatly enhances the stability of the blade, especially when measuring a really long distance. The magnets are also strong enough to double the tape as a magnetic pick up tool. These make it a perfect tool for engineer, architect, etc.
- ▲“TRUE ZERO” ACCURATE MEASUREMENT - Measurement uncertainty is strictly controlled within ±0.2mm, and the separate magnetic claw can move back itself to deduct its own thickness when conducting inside measurement
- ▲COMFORTABLE IN HAND - The soft rubberized cover and its contoured shape make this tool the best fit in your hand, securely and comfortably, setting a perfect standard for tape measure
- ▲LIFETIME WARRANTY - All MulWark tools are warranted to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for as long as you own the product, you may return this product free of charge with original purchase receipt or choose to get a replacement
FastCap PSSR25 25 foot Lefty/Righty Measuring Tape , Black
$7.99 in stock
8 new from $7.99
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 2, 2023 8:35 am
Features
- Item Weight : 10.4 ounces
- Product Dimensions : 6 x 4 x 1 inches
- Country of Origin : China
- Color : Original Version
CRAFTSMAN Tape Measure, Self-Lock, 25-Foot (CMHT37225)
$13.99
in stock
2 new from $13.99
6 used from $12.87
6 used from $12.87
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 2, 2023 8:35 am
Features
- EASE OF USE: Self-locking blade of the retractable tape measure stays extended
- QUICK & EASY MEASUREMENTS: Fractions printed on the blade
- ADDED GRIP: Rubber overmold for added grip
FastCap PMS-FLAT-16 PMS Flatback Series Tape Measure 16 Foot
$18.56
in stock
3 new from $18.56
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 2, 2023 8:35 am
Features
- The PMS features Metric and standard measurements identifying increments down to 1/16 Inch and millimeter.
- Heavy Duty 1 inch Blade
- High Contrast Tape Rugged Casing Measures Curves and Flat Panels With Precision
Recap
In conclusion, finding the best tape measure for fine woodworking requires considering a few key factors such as accuracy, durability, ease of use, and the type and size of markings on the tape.
Additional features like a locking mechanism, belt clip, and built-in level can also be useful for certain tasks. Based on our research and analysis, some top picks for the best tape measure for fine woodworking include the Stanley PowerLock Tape Measure, the Lufkin W606PD Empire Yellow Woodworking Tape Measure, and the Milwaukee Tool 48-22-7125 Compact TrueView Magnetic Tape Measure.
Ultimately, the right choice will depend on your personal preferences and specific needs as a woodworker.
