A standard 60” fiberglass tape measure is ideal for basic sewing projects or measuring your body. It is firm, so it doesn’t twist when you need to fit it around you. Less frustration!

Quilts, duvet covers – anything that measures more than 60”, which is the standard length. With a 120” tape measure you can measure in one fell swoop, instead of starting and stopping.

Have you ever tried to measure a really long item, like multiple yards of fabric? Say you are cutting curtain panels that must be all 84”. The panel is longer than the 60” tape measure. When you reach the first 60”, you simply flip it over and continue with the next set of numbers until you hit the 84” long. You don’t have to add numbers together to find the correct length – the tape measure does that for you. Much easier for the math-challenged!

Believe it or not, tape measures are different, and you’ll want to make sure you choose the right one for the job at hand. They vary by length and width, and what kind of markings they have. Some are retractable and handy to keep in your purse or desk drawer. Other styles are more ideal for your basket of sewing supplies.