ALL TAPE MEASURE TRICKS Explained...In Just 13 Minutes! (Measuring Tape Pro TIPS, TRICKS + ADVICE!)

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Every TAPE MEASURE Basic Explained...In Just 13 Minutes! (Measuring Tape Pro TIPS, TRICKS + ADVICE!)
There is no tool more useful than the TAPE MEASURE or MEASURING TAPE! They are your eyes on the job site, and you should always have one close at hand. Check out this video from The Honest Carpenter to see EVERY tape measure basic explained...in just 13 minutes!
I personally like to use Stanley Powerlock 25' Tape Measures. They're durable, affordable, and a lot of pros use them in the field.
01:13 - Understanding The Tape
03:54 - Handling The Tape
Tips and Tricks from the Video Include:
How to understand the tape measure.
How to draw the tape effectively and use it
How to read the tape accurately.
How to measure into a corner.
How to use a measuring tape over long distances.
How to lay out marks more easily with your tape measure.
How to draw circles with the tape measure.
How to lay out marks with the tape measure tab.
Thanks for watching!
The Honest Carpenter

Пікірлер: 920

  • @TheHonestCarpenter
    @TheHonestCarpenter Жыл бұрын

    I wanted to make a video that would be the only TAPE MEASURE video a newcomer would ever need. I hope this one helps. Let me know how I did!

  • @WalkiTalki

    @WalkiTalki

    Жыл бұрын

    Yep, that was perfect. People always forget to square up the tab after dropping the longer tapes, especially if its a 35 or 40. While it is completely retracted the tab should be 90 deg to the flat that it stops against. Also keep your finger under the tape as it retracts (radius side) and always away from the top (concave side) so that it retracts gently and doesn't slice your middle finger. This way an inexpensive Stanley or more spendy Max will read accurately for years.

  • @donandwendylaprise8267

    @donandwendylaprise8267

    Жыл бұрын

    Excellent explanation It was best I have ever seen by any carpenter. I am a retired Mechanical Millright and i work with wood quite often know. I enjoy your site and it gives me a lot of better ways of doing things. You have a radio voice which makes you pleasant to listen to. I was going to say you had the face for radio but that would be rude, just joking lol my wife thinks you are very handsome man. Take care be safe

  • @MBMCincy63

    @MBMCincy63

    Жыл бұрын

    I really appreciate the how's to do of this video. Especially the inside corner, the black diamond marks, and the wiggle room of the tab. What about the " 3.5" if you include the tape housing" that so many people have pointed out? 🙂

  • @kenc2158

    @kenc2158

    Жыл бұрын

    I would have just liked to see a little bit about safety with these tapes. Those edges are quite sharp and they can retract quite quickly. I do like your videos because you do always talk about safety, especially when you are directing your videos towards newcomers. I'm a DIYer but my dad was a carpenter. He was very much like you and his first lessons were always about safety. This was one thing he always taught us. Safety with tapes.

  • @michaeldriskell6431

    @michaeldriskell6431

    Жыл бұрын

    Very informative video! Always a great watch!

  • @caroldragon7545
    @caroldragon7545 Жыл бұрын

    Something my dad showed me many years ago (i'm 82 yrs old) about measuring into an inside corner. He said to put a square cut piece of masking tape, sticky side up, up against the corner. use the measuring tape as usual.. The tape will stick to the measuring tape. Then press it on the rest of the way. The edge of the duct tape will then show the exact measurement into the corner, and easily peels off when you are done.

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Cool trick, Carol! I love hearing about old carpenter methods 😄

  • @subtlename2873

    @subtlename2873

    Жыл бұрын

    This is why stuff built in the 40s is still around and D.O.M. 2021 stuff is already trash. Your dad was O.G. that's for sharing that mate!

  • @caroldragon7545

    @caroldragon7545

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@@subtlename2873 You're right as rain. I have a fair amount of stuff my dad had when I was a kid in the forties. I doubt that there is much around today that will last for 70 years.

  • @ghostridergale

    @ghostridergale

    Жыл бұрын

    Had a old timer show me a excellent tip when I was putting on plastic laminate on countertops. After you glue up both the countertops and the back of the plastic laminate with contact cement and let it dry to the point where it’s stick but the glue doesn’t stay on you’re fingers. Most people use dowels sticks laid out on the countertops to get the laminate in place , then pull the sticks out one by one as you stick the laminate to the countertop. So you have to carry a bunch of long dowels sticks with you to the job site. This old timer showed me a better trick that I have been using even since he showed me! Instead of using dowels sticks, use your extension cord and just lay it on your countertop from the front to back of your cabinet on the countertop like a snake all the way down the cabinet top. Lay your laminate on top of the extension cord and get your laminate in place. Then slowly pull out a little of the extension cord as you stick down the laminate to the counter so plastic laminate doesn’t move on you. Once you got the laminate stuck in place you can pull out the rest of the cord and press the rest of the laminate down with your hand and/or laminate roller. Works like a charm! Rather use a extension cord then dowel sticks myself any day. Normally you always gave a extension cord with you on the job site! May get some contact cement on your extension cord here or there? But that never bothered me and if I wanted to I could clean off the contract cement on the cord with a little lacquer thinner. Those old timers got a lot of tricks worth their weight in gold and sadly sometimes those tricks get lost in the past. That old timer that showed me that trick when I was just in my early 20’s. Now I’m the old timer myself in my late 60’s passing on this trick/tip so hopefully this one doesn’t get lost in the past too? Very few people have ever seen the extension cord used on the countertop instead of using dowels sticks like this!

  • @caroldragon7545

    @caroldragon7545

    Жыл бұрын

    @@ghostridergale Yes, so many old timer tricks and tips are lost. Even back in the sixties my dad used to complain about the young engineers just out of college who didn't know the basics. My dad was a professional engineer who passed the New York exams without attending college.

  • @beckycarson3299
    @beckycarson329910 ай бұрын

    This is a great wood project book kzread.infoUgkxkPIWb22DigCqxmlXerCyUF4HCl6eSU2L . Most of the projects use the pallet simply as a source of reclaimed wood not as a recognizable pallet so even if you didn't have a pallet you could make these projects with any reclaimed (or even new) wood. The instructions are excellent. The style is charming and would work with lots of different decor. There are quite a number of projects that involve tiling of teh wood pieces which is a really cool idea and can produce beautiful pieces when working with aged wood.

  • @DemPilafian
    @DemPilafian Жыл бұрын

    I recently bought a few metric tape measures and switched over to using metric for all my home projects. Millimeters are awesome. It's probably just random luck, but the *mm is the freakin' perfect size* for home projects. It's the smallest length you can reliably measure quickly (without special tools and extra lighting). Metric literally requires less effort to remember your measurements and helps you quickly cut accurately.

  • @charleshenbest8263

    @charleshenbest8263

    Жыл бұрын

    I measured some 1/4" plywood in my shop with calipers and they were all closer to 1/5", but really close to 5mm. A few pieces of 1/2" ply were also off, but still pretty spot-on to 12mm. I'm debating moving to metric because of these types of things. I should be able to put two 1/4" pieces together to make a 1/2" thick board, (because of math LOL!) yet it will never measure 1/2" thick and seldom matches a 1/2" piece of ply. Oh, 5mm + 5mm = 10mm, not 12mm.

  • @nickpeterson6647

    @nickpeterson6647

    Жыл бұрын

    Metric is just so much easier.

  • @Goalsplus

    @Goalsplus

    Жыл бұрын

    It's hard for people to change so kudos to you.

  • @simongchadwick

    @simongchadwick

    Жыл бұрын

    And I thought I was the freak using a metric tape measure in Imperial-Land ;-) Especially for cutting pieces in half or quarters. What is half of 13⅝ ?

  • @jwbakker5100

    @jwbakker5100

    Жыл бұрын

    I wish all you people were doing this . I am from the Netherlands , and always am annoid by the utter stupidnes on these videos that people still dont use metric . You could have started 100 years ago with metric , but still they dont . Unbelieveble , how stupid can one , and a whole "modern " nation be.

  • @nerknerk8834
    @nerknerk8834 Жыл бұрын

    Wow! I almost didn't click on this one. That was the fastest 13 minutes. Lots of good information. Thanks!

  • @mercoid
    @mercoid Жыл бұрын

    I was recently cleaning out my garage and found a basically brand new condition Stanley 16’ tape measure which was packed away over 35 years ago. Comparing it to my current 25’ foot Stanley tape measure, it is ASTONISHING the difference in quality, construction and operation between the two. The old one is unbelievably better in every way.

  • @mercoid

    @mercoid

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Mixwell1983 …We, as a society, keep harping on how much stuff ends up in landfills….., yet we keep buying and producing items that end up in the garbage within a few short years. Go figure.

  • @tallswede80

    @tallswede80

    Жыл бұрын

    That is the effect of inflation. In order to keep costs down, they have to make the quality worse.

  • @robertkwiatkoski1292

    @robertkwiatkoski1292

    Жыл бұрын

    old one had more "yellow" as i recall. That is where you wrote your measurements.1st framing boss had a box of 16' tapes behind his seat. You were given one and paid him on friday as a newbie.Framing since the late 70's. I have my tape on my non dominant hand side. Dominant hand is for extending the tape and your pencil. Never seen anyone mark with non dominate hand each and every time. His way, you are constantly shifting hands, more movements means more time.

  • @InuranusBrokoff

    @InuranusBrokoff

    Жыл бұрын

    @@mercoid it's because the world economy is built on growth, without it everything would collapse. We've worked ourselves into a corner.

  • @mercoid

    @mercoid

    Жыл бұрын

    @@InuranusBrokoff … That’s exactly right. Commerce and the huge population we have because of it, ended up being a self made trap.

  • @ifiwooddesigns
    @ifiwooddesigns Жыл бұрын

    Good for beginners. I think two points for more advanced users are adding the length of the tape measure housing itself inside tight areas like a box. Other advise to avoid the crooked tape measurement is to measure up to an easy number, then reading from other side and add known number to total. Keep up the great work!

  • @anneoreilly4900

    @anneoreilly4900

    Жыл бұрын

    Yes, two good additions.

  • @grantcivyt

    @grantcivyt

    Жыл бұрын

    Can you explain your second tip again please? What does "reading from other side" mean?

  • @ifiwooddesigns

    @ifiwooddesigns

    Жыл бұрын

    @@grantcivyt Absolutely. Let’s say you are reading inside a window sill and need an exact measurement. You would read 10” and make a mark. Then measure from from other end to your mark and add that original 10” for an exact measurement without having to factor in the curvature of the tape measure blade. Very critical when exact measurements are needed and you can’t be off by 1/8” or more.

  • @grantcivyt

    @grantcivyt

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the explanations. I was missing the part where you mark the surface.

  • @dubs31

    @dubs31

    Жыл бұрын

    Absolutely second the tape measure housing trick. For those who haven't seen it, under the back tab (usually) of your tape is the "long" dimension of the housing itself. Incredibly useful in a hook and pull application where one hand controls the tension pulling and the other butts the end. Read the visible dimension (from as close to overhead 90-degrees) and add the known dimension of the tape housing. I use the Stanley FatMax 35' specifically because of it's 3-1/2" in housing length. The 30' version (I previously used) I believe is 3-1/4" in length. Not awful to use for this trick, but halves are always easier to comprehend when you are taking many dimensions and trying to remember them in sequence.

  • @MrCmcag1
    @MrCmcag1 Жыл бұрын

    I just turned 60 an only now decided to pick up the hobby. I was a flooring guy for years but still learned lots from this. Thanks!

  • @thedillpickle100
    @thedillpickle100 Жыл бұрын

    As an electrician I carried a 12'er as that measured almost everything I needed. But I wore carpenter jeans for the pocket to carry my folding stick ruler. Measuring inside live boxes and raceways was less eventful with a fiberglass stick. 😉 I also used a wind up 150'er to measure wire runs from the breaker to box. Different jobs, different tools. Thanks for all your videos!

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Great points, dill! 😄

  • @christheother9088

    @christheother9088

    6 ай бұрын

    Folding wooden rulers were really common when I was a kid. I should have one around.

  • @JackKirbyFan
    @JackKirbyFan Жыл бұрын

    I LOVED it. Incidentally, I often use the 'lose an inch' technique for furniture building to get that accuracy. Problem is when you are tired, you forget you are off an inch and can't figure out why the piece is so short and on woods like black walnut or cherry, that's when you realize you should have stopped for the day :) Ouch!

  • @TheOtherSean

    @TheOtherSean

    Жыл бұрын

    I've never once done that....... more than once....on the same day.....i mean... wait, no..... =)

  • @JackKirbyFan

    @JackKirbyFan

    Жыл бұрын

    @@TheOtherSean We've all been there :)

  • @spconrad9612

    @spconrad9612

    Жыл бұрын

    We call it "cutting an inch" / losing an inch.

  • @jamesholm3107

    @jamesholm3107

    Жыл бұрын

    I use my planer a lot, and I use the "lose an inch" method to get an accurate reading for thickness.

  • @screwfist

    @screwfist

    Жыл бұрын

    Wouldn't you have an extra inch if you burn an inch?

  • @frederickwagner5776
    @frederickwagner577611 ай бұрын

    I've never seen someone explain so well how to use the numbers on a tape measure. Good job to you!

  • @crunchycrispybacon

    @crunchycrispybacon

    23 күн бұрын

    😂😂

  • @Bob-vb8lc
    @Bob-vb8lc Жыл бұрын

    Spot on Ethan. You broke down the basics very well. I've been using a tape for decades and do these things naturally. But you brought up things that come with experience. Great video Sir

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks Bob! When I make vids like this I always ask myself, “what didn’t I used to know?” and try to think back to what confused me in my earlier years.

  • @theknifeconnection9571

    @theknifeconnection9571

    Жыл бұрын

    Yeah I’ve never watched one of these before. I’m a Forman at Moran construction. I didn’t realize that I do every single tape technique out of muscle memory while never being showed when I was younger how to do this. Now I’m sure I picked up a few things down the line. But tape handing described in this video is exactly the same as I use mine. I always use Stanley power lock 25 or 30s too. And I never use the lock unless i lay the tape out and have someone else do 16 oc set ahead. Also. We burn an inch or 2 almost always in trim work. But in rough framing. Hardly ever

  • @davidbemis1832
    @davidbemis1832 Жыл бұрын

    Another great video, Ethan. Straight to the point, simple language with excellent editing of video to illustrate each point. I learn something every time. 👏

  • @cg2000cg1
    @cg2000cg1 Жыл бұрын

    Always good advice! Even for small projects, I always use a tape measure in conjunction with a combo square. A tape measure is your first look and a quick double check, you spend a lot of time staring at wood with a tape measure in your hand. I like the fractions trick, in my shop I have an 11x16 sheet with a blown up inch scale with 32nd's, 16th's and so on labeled. It's handy having a big quick reference sheet you can walk back to with a combo or tape measure, especially with 32nd's.

  • @cedarwaxwing3509
    @cedarwaxwing3509 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much!!! This one certainly gets saved into my faves and I’ll be going over it again several times in the next few days and practicing. Such great tips and techniques. I think the only “trick” I really knew before starting it was that I have always bought Stanley tapes!

  • @dangallagher6975
    @dangallagher6975 Жыл бұрын

    i always felt stupid using a tape measure at times.. you just clarified a lot.. i’ll have some things to practice.. saving this video.. thank you!

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you, Dan! I’m really glad it helps 🙂

  • @jessedover6175
    @jessedover6175 Жыл бұрын

    I've been buying & using STANLEY 25' for 30+ years. Its the best out there.

  • @Anonymous-rh9hk
    @Anonymous-rh9hk Жыл бұрын

    I'd add: don't let the tape snap back into the holder. Eventually that'll wear on the tab and decrease the accuracy. Good video! :)

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Good tip!

  • @Toyotajunkie

    @Toyotajunkie

    Жыл бұрын

    On really cheap tapes, yes. But even mid priced ones very rarely have this happen. The inaccurate measurements due to tab problems are usually BENT tabs. There are a few videos (Steve Ramsey did one, I think 10,000 or maybe 1,000 releases) that show this is rarely a real problem.

  • @coolbugfacts1234

    @coolbugfacts1234

    Жыл бұрын

    If you need your tape to be accurate to a 32nd, you should calibrate your hook anyways by bending it slightly to correct an inaccuracy.

  • @willmen08

    @willmen08

    Жыл бұрын

    total myth - kzread.infoBDfX-Fj6ICI

  • @bobby-c7731

    @bobby-c7731

    Жыл бұрын

    Just under 10,000 times to break the tape. According to Steve Ramsey.

  • @paulamcclure3402
    @paulamcclure3402 Жыл бұрын

    Fantastic video, Ethan! Thank you for your clear and concise instruction & demonstrations (including technique terminology). Wishing you all the best for 2023!

  • @JayAaronNY
    @JayAaronNY2 ай бұрын

    I’ve been doing DIY for years and STILL there were some pro tips here. Thank you so much for making this! 👏

  • @cathy-k
    @cathy-k Жыл бұрын

    It’s great to see how a pro uses tape measures! I’ve used tape measures in our print shop for years and still picked up a couple of tips. We have the Komelon 12’ tape measures scattered all over our shop. When the boss has purchased other brands or lengths, no one uses them - they’re great for smaller fabrication and packaging applications. They are lightweight, and quite durable, and the bright yellow case makes them easy to find. Thanks for the great video!

  • @caramidacaramida3959
    @caramidacaramida3959 Жыл бұрын

    A excellent video I learned new very useful things, thenk you so much I never new how hard and complex it mperial units are a surprise

  • @openyoureyesandseethefutur5802
    @openyoureyesandseethefutur5802Ай бұрын

    wow, your explanation of metal tape measuring is excellent thx

  • @b5maddog
    @b5maddog Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for your tips, tricks and advice. I often struggle with this.

  • @LumberjackPa
    @LumberjackPa Жыл бұрын

    I knew some of the and others I just learned from you. Very informative for a diy homeowner like me. Thanks for sharing.

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad it helped, lumberjack!

  • @houseofnambili8423
    @houseofnambili8423 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you SO much for this! I've been using my tape measure for years and still learned something useful!

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    😄

  • @kathryntokarska1738
    @kathryntokarska1738 Жыл бұрын

    WOW, Ive struggled with so many of these things. THANK YOU! This should really help me with my projects and less waste.

  • @ra4yu
    @ra4yu Жыл бұрын

    This is a great video, an excellent primer for people that teaches a lot of what people would usually put down to practice and experience, no gimmicks or once in a blue moon things to confuse people. Really great

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you! That’s what I was hoping to help folks with 🙂

  • @blainehankins
    @blainehankins Жыл бұрын

    Absolutely agree about the Stanley Powerlock 25'. I bought my first one in 1972. Probably owned a hundred or more over time. Tried many other brands but kept coming back. In fact, I probably have three or four right now and I've been retired for 15yrs! They are the best! It may be the object I have held in my hands more than any other single object in my lifetime.

  • @InuranusBrokoff

    @InuranusBrokoff

    Жыл бұрын

    The only thing I don't like about them is they don't allow for overdraw to read the entire tape. I build bridges for corrugators in my shop and usually a 35' tape will do the job, but not a Stanley, once they are fully drawn they never operate correctly again.

  • @dfiglide
    @dfiglide Жыл бұрын

    Excellent vid mate. Here in Oz we use the metric system, however a lot of older buildings were built using the old imperial measurements. Makes it interesting when doing renos

  • @eddiegonza
    @eddiegonza Жыл бұрын

    Awesome teaching vid, I'll need to book mark it and watch it a couple of times. Thank you !

  • @1mxprince402
    @1mxprince402 Жыл бұрын

    Great video! I’ve been in the plumbing trades for 30+ years and watching the sheet rockers whip that tape around throwing out numbers to a guy on the ground with angles and holes for piping ect is pretty cool. Great video you can always learn a few new things!

  • @abcxyz1797
    @abcxyz1797 Жыл бұрын

    I find your videos, very clear and informative. Thank you!

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks, ABC!

  • @rendenwow
    @rendenwow Жыл бұрын

    Great video. Always educational.

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you! 🙂

  • @piratedragon703
    @piratedragon7034 ай бұрын

    Awesome video man thank you. Saved it for future listens. Im terrible with measurements, but getting better. Definitely much better than I was earlier in the year. Looking forward to getting more accurate reads and cuts on future projects. Thanks for sharing.

  • @williambalicao8515
    @williambalicao8515 Жыл бұрын

    Love the tips man. Super quick and informative video for anyone not just in carpentry, but for anyone working in trades no matter your experience. I loved hearing and getting a good refresher on quick tape measure tips that make you more productive as a worker. I would just like to add I prefer using my tape measure from my left hand so that would mean I read the numbers upside down but it’s just always been my preference because I pull out my tape measure and a pencil at the same time. It just takes some experience but still a very informative video. Keep up the good work. Appreciate the work you do and thank for sharing your extensive amounts of knowledge and experiences.

  • @psidvicious

    @psidvicious

    7 ай бұрын

    Yep. Tape goes on the left, pencil on the right or dominant side.

  • @TechTimeWithEric
    @TechTimeWithEric Жыл бұрын

    Great tips. Another one I learned was ALWAYS use the same tape measure for the measurements and the cuts. I messed something up once using 1 tape inside and a different one outside.

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s an interesting point, Eric!

  • @stephenmoore2561
    @stephenmoore2561 Жыл бұрын

    As a beginner, thank you for this video. Several points you made are new to me. Very practical. I’ll definitely save this video for future viewing.

  • @jwostrowe8953
    @jwostrowe89538 ай бұрын

    Your videos are incredibly helpful. Well done Sir.

  • @eddienzz
    @eddienzz Жыл бұрын

    Omg as someone using metric system i really can't believe that in 2023 you guys are still using this system. Blows my mind

  • @ghostridergale
    @ghostridergale Жыл бұрын

    Couple things I would add is if you happen to drop your tape measure, always check the tab to make sure it’s still square and not bent at a angle that will make your tape measure read wrong ( longer then it really is) if the tab is bent towards your tape box. I’ve seen quite a few people working with a bent tab and not ever catching it and wondering why their cuts aren’t accurate? Another tip is I see many people not use to using a tape measure not holding their tape measure parallel with their work piece their measuring. Running their tape at a angle making the measurement on the tape longer then it actually is. For a good example once I asked a customer if they had a 36” wide front door or is it only 30”? They grabbed their trusty tape measure and measured their front door. Told me oh yea it’s 36” wide! So I went ahead and built the cabinets at the 34” wide it needed to be at the shop. Get out to the job site and low and behold the door width is only 30”! Luckily they had a sliding door in the back of the building to get into their home. Bad part is this was a boat house and the cabinet had to be put in a row boat and towed around the boat houses to get out to the other side of their home. Then taking a heavy cabinet out of a row boat while the deck you’re standing on is also moving under your feet makes it a difficult task not to end up in the river with the cabinet if not yourself too! Fortunately we got the cabinet out of the boat without ending up in the drink! This is a good reason not to trust your customers doing measurements for you! It can cause you problems when the customer doesn’t know how to use or read a tape! One other thing I’ll mention that actually surprised me too! Is not all tape measure read accurately. Take a few tape measures and stick them all on a board and see if they all read the same? Depending on the length you have the tape out I have found some tape measures off by a 1/4” in extreme cases. Some will be closer but still off 1/16”-1/8” from one tape to another tape readings! I know a 1/16” don’t sound like a lot, but that 1/16” of a inch can be a real problem when someone measured with their tape measure and giving you their measurement and you cut a board to their measurements with your tape measure that reads differently and your material either ends up short or long a 1/16” of a inch. If long you can always cut it again, but hard to add that 1/15” back on a board you cut short! So it’s a good idea to pair up tape measures making sure they measure exactly the same? Especially if both tapes aren’t the same brand! Cheap tape measures are often not accurate! They will still work if your doing all the measurements with the same tape measure, but you may have a problem when another tape measure is used in the project doing cutting off a inaccurate reading from a bad tape measure! Thought these would be a good thing to add to your video that can really be important to even semi pros that maybe not ran into these issues yet? Know I was in the woodworking business several years before I found tape measures that didn’t read accurately with other tapes! Hope it helps !

  • @tonyz6421

    @tonyz6421

    Жыл бұрын

    🙄🥱😴

  • @roxyviews7644

    @roxyviews7644

    Жыл бұрын

    We had an ADA counter come out 1/8" too high. That "bent tab" (oopsie) came in handy. I'm sure no handicapped person was injured and we were saved from our narcissistic CA inspector.

  • @noname9935
    @noname9935 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for the advice. I am just starting to learn how to use a measuring tape. Your tips have enlightened me.

  • @danalaniz7314
    @danalaniz7314 Жыл бұрын

    Great tips and explanations. We always learn when you share your expertise. Thanks!

  • @arajalali
    @arajalali Жыл бұрын

    Awesome tip about burning an inch. Just two points to add: some tape measures mention the length of the casing somewhere on the casing, usually on the back below the clip. This kind of makes the measurement to corners easier. Another point is kind of a safety tip about your finger getting pinched once you release the tape to retract. Some tapes have a finger guard but Stanley doesn't so be careful folks :)

  • @GratefulThird

    @GratefulThird

    Жыл бұрын

    Yes! I recently cut a nasty cut on my index finger letting the tape measure retract with my finger still near the crimping position.

  • @tallswede80

    @tallswede80

    Жыл бұрын

    I don't think it makes the measurement to corners easier. You still have to judge visually where the tape intersects the edge of the casing.

  • @TheDesktopguy
    @TheDesktopguy Жыл бұрын

    For measuring into a corner - no need to bend. Every tape I have seen in Australia has an 80mm body. Simply place tape body in corner and pull. Add 80mm to number. Some tape measures have this number stamped on body. Also seen tape measure from UK where you pull a metal lead in opposite direction to the tape which equals 100mm - making it even easier

  • @AncoraImparoPiper
    @AncoraImparoPiper Жыл бұрын

    Excellent explanation for an amateur like me who does not use measurement tape in my daily work. I have struggled with measuring corners and just about everything else you mentioned. One of the best decisions I made was to buy the broadest tape measure. It made all the difference compared to my narrow 'toy' tape.

  • @squarelevelplumb
    @squarelevelplumb Жыл бұрын

    Excellent video. The Honest and Informative Carpenter.

  • @cindieagle2008
    @cindieagle20086 ай бұрын

    I respect your wisdom and wanted to check my knowledge; i grew up in my dad’s glass shop at 7-10. Happy to know handling a tape is second nature to me and has enriched my life by allowing me to take on challenges with minimal errors. Im 61 now but grew as a single parent in confidence of my capabilities because my kids called me “MomGyver”. Thank you for your videos they are helpful to me as I need to stay teachable.

  • @mleachx1
    @mleachx1 Жыл бұрын

    Good tip for measuring the distance of two inside corners. instead of using the bent section of tape or the numbers listed on the tape body, draw mark from tape tab out of the corner a few inches. put your tab in the other corner and measure to that mark. a lot easier than having to trust you're reading the mark in the bend accurately.

  • @andrewjfast
    @andrewjfast8 ай бұрын

    These videos are SOO Helpful, well explained, and point out soo many things I've done that I can do more accurately, efficiently, or bonus skills worth learning. HUGE thank you

  • @abarberi
    @abarberi Жыл бұрын

    Absolutely outstanding video! I am a beginner and tend to destroy nearly everything I touch, requiring multiple attempts to get things right. As a new homeowner, your in-depth explanation and importance of the tape measure could have AND certainly would have saved me a lot of headaches! I take pride in all that I do but I wish I could accomplish my work on the first attempt and do so with minimal effort and errors!!!! Your video will certainly help moving forward. Thank you for providing such insightful and detailed information. Cheers!

  • @jameskroeck3178
    @jameskroeck3178 Жыл бұрын

    Great video as always. Thanks for the tips !!

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you, James!

  • @ceedeekaytee1961
    @ceedeekaytee1961 Жыл бұрын

    Great tape tips but there is one more that you have overlooked and that is; When you allow the tape to retract, use your crimping finger or the tape lock as a brake so as not to let the tape slam home. Doing so repeatedly may damage the tab and even break it off. Allowing the tape to slam home repeatedly will eventually loosen the tab rivets and you may end up with an extra 1/16th or more added to your measurement.

  • @NivBetsalel
    @NivBetsalel Жыл бұрын

    Crimping is a new concept for me, I've just been pinching my tape ever since I got one without the crimping button thingy. This is such a better way of doing things, thank you for the great tips!

  • @darshany2d
    @darshany2d Жыл бұрын

    DIY's review - A video we don't deserve, but SO GLAD we have! Seen so many videos on using the tape measure but this is by far the most comprehensive. You're god's work my guy!

  • @ZunarZulfiqar
    @ZunarZulfiqar Жыл бұрын

    This is a small tip, but I think an important one. If you, for some reason, find it hard to read a standard tape measure, take a look at the Lufkin Nite Eye G2. It is a black tape measure blade with light markings. (Basically, reverse contrast for a tape measure). The reverse contrast might be easier on the eyes for you.

  • @andrewthompson4332

    @andrewthompson4332

    Жыл бұрын

    If you’re willing to pay 50$ for a tape that will last 2 months

  • @ipick4fun27
    @ipick4fun27 Жыл бұрын

    I often forgot to subtract 1 from "Burn an inch" So I always start at 10". Besides, when I burn 10", it's usually a dimension that needs higher accuracy and often less than 1 ft. If you mess up by 10", you will know immediately so you don't carry the mistake forward for too long.

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Good point! 👍

  • @dvga204
    @dvga20414 күн бұрын

    Loved the tutorial

  • @jaimeceja4114
    @jaimeceja4114 Жыл бұрын

    Howdy Jaime from texas I enjoyed you video. I have a son I plan to showing this to in the future. It’s important for every man to know how to use a tape measure like it is to know how to change a tire. So good deed of you getting the word out.

  • @robbennett2829
    @robbennett2829 Жыл бұрын

    Metric is much easier to use if you can count to ten.

  • @spconrad9612
    @spconrad9612 Жыл бұрын

    Good quick information for the newbies or things we haven't come across if you only pick a tape up once in a while.

  • @_kaushin1540
    @_kaushin154013 күн бұрын

    I was recently introduced to the Fastcap line (PSSR-25 to be exact) of tape measures. They are BRILLIANT for carpentry work. A white writable front label to write down measurements, a built in sharpener, noted increments, a button for manual crimping with your index. The green version has numbers on both sides of the top of the tape, and an easy 3 inch base for easy measurents when backed up into a corner. And only $10!!!

  • @cattigereyes1
    @cattigereyes1 Жыл бұрын

    The metric system simpler! Winner winner chicken dinner!

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Ahh, it is true

  • @luigifonti4936
    @luigifonti4936 Жыл бұрын

    I"m still lost as to why we haven't adopted the metric system here. Are we that stubborn and arrogant?

  • @estinguray

    @estinguray

    15 күн бұрын

    The change is so far reaching... Imagine ceiling tile manufacturers retooling their entire operation because 2'x4' ceiling tile is now what... 1m x 2m? What's the new dimension? Doors, windows, counter heights, etc, etc ad nauseum. It's no small undertaking

  • @Tom-og7fi

    @Tom-og7fi

    4 күн бұрын

    This is not Europe. If you want the metric system go to Europe.

  • @luigifonti4936

    @luigifonti4936

    4 күн бұрын

    @@Tom-og7fi 🤣

  • @jdemuro1
    @jdemuro1 Жыл бұрын

    Just cut my first piece of wood ever (aside from firewood) and used the techniques you mentioned here. Measured perfectly to the 16th... thank you!

  • @yourmomsfriedgravy
    @yourmomsfriedgravy4 ай бұрын

    Ashamed to admit how much I needed this video haha

  • @bernardlozar4413
    @bernardlozar4413 Жыл бұрын

    Excellent video. This is the only video needed for anyone to learn!

  • @Erik_The_Viking
    @Erik_The_Viking Жыл бұрын

    Great tips! I use a lot of the tips you brought up. I recently bought a tape measure from Fastcap that you can read down to 1/16 more easily from both sides, which has improved my measuring.

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks Erik! I’ll check out fastcap 🙂

  • @freewaybaby
    @freewaybaby Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for this. It seems like it should be so simple, but I never understood or have trusted the tab wiggle and didn’t know that it automatically adjusts. I’ll have to play with it and see because it doesn’t seem like it would work like that but I trust your expertise and your explanation AND am glad to know that it’s SUPPOSED to work like that. It will keep me from having to “burn“ that inch every time I measure something. Also, learning how to split the 8th inch by sight is very helpful. Being older, and having fading eyesight, I’ve basically just been making a mental note of where it falls on the tape measure and just telling myself “well, it’s a little over 3/4 of an inch or it’s a little over 1/2 an inch, etc. and just winging it, which we know is unforgiving for accuracy. Thanks again for all your tips on how to properly use what would (ar first glance) SEEM to be, a “what could go wrong “ simple tool.

  • @dankelley9361
    @dankelley9361 Жыл бұрын

    Nice tape basics, keep producing these videos as it’s a great reminder to some & some new ways to others.

  • @mar4072
    @mar40726 ай бұрын

    Add'l knowledge for me a beginner. Thank you sir!

  • @eldergeektromeo9868
    @eldergeektromeo9868 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks Ethan. Tips much appreciated.

  • @mikejohn3265
    @mikejohn326510 ай бұрын

    Straight to the point. I love it.

  • @trapbartedlifts6038
    @trapbartedlifts6038 Жыл бұрын

    Great video as usual. Very informative and to the point.

  • @smarro71
    @smarro71 Жыл бұрын

    Coming from a country that uses the metric system, this was very helpful. Thanks for the great video

  • @elizabetholiviaclark
    @elizabetholiviaclark Жыл бұрын

    My first experiences with measuring on the job on a daily basis was in the optical field many years ago, so I did work in metrics. Honestly, I am impressed with the obvious skill that comes with time and practice for a carpenter to be able to account for parallax when measuring something where the reading is at a distance from the carpenter's perspective.

  • @Eurolymius
    @Eurolymius Жыл бұрын

    Life-changing information! Thank you!

  • @danalevy1825
    @danalevy18257 ай бұрын

    Good information for those who didn’t grow up using a tape measure beyond the very basics.

  • @chisulo77
    @chisulo7716 күн бұрын

    I already know all of those tricks but this video was fantastic. 👍

  • @ebrahimamin8275
    @ebrahimamin8275 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for all tips and tricks you showed.

  • @quamirandom5063
    @quamirandom5063 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much 🙏🙏 this video has really help me I was struggling with my measurements in terms of using the tape bah you explained everything to me within this short minutes and it has enlighten my understanding 🙏🙏 am really happy that I found solution to my problem

  • @ulysseshines7454
    @ulysseshines7454 Жыл бұрын

    Very helpful for someone not good at math so helpful I’m practicing thankyou

  • @aaronarmstrong406
    @aaronarmstrong4069 ай бұрын

    This is great instruction. Will definitely be sharing it and sending people here 😁

  • @Deathwish831Watson
    @Deathwish831Watson Жыл бұрын

    Great video my kid is learning fractions and some of my kids hw has questions on measurements with pics of rulers! This should help

  • @michaelbennett6959
    @michaelbennett69594 ай бұрын

    I ALWAYS hit the thumbs up before I ever watch the video. I do that for all my favorite content creators. Have a blessed day and Happy And Safe New Year!

  • @Give357
    @Give3575 ай бұрын

    Sir you did a great job thank you

  • @jhartford58
    @jhartford58 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the tips Ethan, great video that covered a bunch of the in's & out's

  • @IronPellets
    @IronPellets Жыл бұрын

    This is just what I needed help with thank you!

  • @MrLeram12
    @MrLeram122 ай бұрын

    Another very good video. Thanks!!!

  • @bilbobagginssword3926
    @bilbobagginssword3926Ай бұрын

    Great instruction!

  • @user-xx9go1ob9r
    @user-xx9go1ob9r2 ай бұрын

    I'm a 79 yo woman who has used a steel tape for many years for various reasons and I was pleasantly surprised at how many of these "tricks" I actually already know and use. LOL, still would hesitate to call myself a pro....but I am always amazed at my skill level compared to not only most women but a lot of guys as well. I learned these things simply by DOING them. Common sense seems to go a long way with a lot of things or skills. Now math is not my strong suit so the trickier measurements always get me. I knew the marking symbols (except the 19.2 diamond) but the 16th's always make me stop and think. This is a great tutorial and I appreciate my skill level being validated with what I learned from it. I thank you and applaud you for doing it!

  • @cdixon2011ify

    @cdixon2011ify

    2 ай бұрын

    I'm a 66 year old woman who loves doing small fixer uppers around my house. So I like to learn how to properly use the tape measure. It's always good to read comments from other women. Thanks for sharing

  • @joanies6778
    @joanies6778 Жыл бұрын

    Great tips! Some I figured out on my own, and some of the tips were new ones. Thanks!

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks Joanie!

  • @T_Jonesy
    @T_Jonesy Жыл бұрын

    Another great video. Thanks for taking the time to explain the basics. Y can't produce good work if you can't measure.

  • @michaellacaria910
    @michaellacaria9107 ай бұрын

    Great video as usual, learned a lot of useful information,

  • @edsherrod5216
    @edsherrod5216 Жыл бұрын

    Great video. My Dad had a roofing and sheet metal business so I learned some things about a tape measure in my childhood. It is good to know the tips and tricks.

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s cool, Ed! I spent a lot of time on the old bending brake when I was a kid 😄

  • @edsherrod5216

    @edsherrod5216

    Жыл бұрын

    @@TheHonestCarpenter Thanks - my Dad had an 8' brake in his shop and I'd watch him use the brake and other tools to fabricate custom roof vents and roofing valley. He had soldering irons he'd heat up in a fire and used a foot long bar of silver solder and sulfuric acid to solder sheet metal together. He had to sell his business when I was 7 years old but I'll never forget those times.

  • @jrobiii1
    @jrobiii1 Жыл бұрын

    Great video (as usual). Knew most of these, but the best advice I'm taking away is "throw rusted or frail tape measures". I'm just such a tight wad that I never event considered it. Thanks Ethan!

  • @mohamedarshad6207
    @mohamedarshad6207 Жыл бұрын

    Always brillient. Learning curve all the time Thks

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you, Mohamed! 😄

  • @scorpianspirit5124
    @scorpianspirit5124 Жыл бұрын

    You did great in this video. I just ordered a power lock tape after watching the video. My others were cheap 16ft and needed to be replaced anyway. Cheers and thumbs up.

  • @TheHonestCarpenter

    @TheHonestCarpenter

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you, Scorpian! 😄

  • @jdschini
    @jdschini Жыл бұрын

    Loved the video! Thanks for sharing all of your practical tips and tricks. Now I just need one more accessory for my tape. Something that puts out a location signal to my phone so I can find it😜

  • @smurfturf
    @smurfturf Жыл бұрын

    very good explanation! thank you

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