A tailor's tape measure typically uses both centimeters (cm) and inches as units of measurement.
Understanding the units on a tailor's tape measure is essential for accurate garment creation and fitting. Based on common designs, as described in the provided reference, these flexible measuring tools feature dual measurement systems.
Standard Units on a Tailor's Tape
As indicated by the reference, a standard tailor's tape measure is often double-sided.
- Side 1: Units are given in "cm" (centimeters).
- Side 2: Units are given in "inches".
This dual system caters to the diverse needs of sewers and tailors working with patterns and instructions from various parts of the world, where either the metric system (centimeters) or the imperial system (inches) is standard.
Why Both Centimeters and Inches?
Tailoring and sewing are global crafts.
- Inches are commonly used in the United States, the United Kingdom (historically), and for many commercial patterns, particularly those originating from North America.
- Centimeters are part of the metric system, which is the standard in most other countries around the world and is increasingly used in technical specifications and online patterns.
Having both units on a single tape allows tailors to easily switch between systems without needing multiple tools, making it highly practical for converting measurements or following instructions that specify one unit over the other.
Practical Applications
Using a tape measure with both cm and inches side-by-side offers flexibility in various sewing tasks:
- Taking Body Measurements: Whether a pattern calls for waist measurements in inches or hip measurements in centimeters, you can use the same tape.
- Measuring Fabric: Easily measure yardage in inches or meters in centimeters depending on how the fabric is sold or needed for a pattern.
- Checking Pattern Dimensions: Compare pattern pieces against your measurements using the required unit.
- Hemming and Seam Allowances: Precisely measure allowances using either system as specified by the project.
Example Measurements
| Measurement Type | Common Unit (Examples) | Tape Side Used |
|---|---|---|
| Waist Circumference | Inches or Centimeters | Both |
| Inseam Length | Inches or Centimeters | Both |
| Fabric Width | Inches or Centimeters | Both |
| Seam Allowance | Inches or Centimeters | Both |
Using a durable plastic, extra-long tape measure, as described in the reference, ensures it can withstand frequent use and is long enough for measuring around the body or large fabric pieces.
