Making accurate measurements is crucial for the success of any DIY project. We've compiled our top techniques and tips to help you increase your measurement skills to the highest level.

Measure to Mark

Tape measuring in tight areas usually involves bent tape while trying to read it. Get rid of tape completely by fitting it dry or by placing the tape in place while marking where the tape needs to be cut using the help of a pencil. Make a mark using a "V" instead of just a single line since it allows for the most precise mark; the edge that forms the "V" is the exact location of the cut.

Use Pencil Lead to Mark Kerf Width

A kerf is an expression that describes the size of the saw blade. It is essential to know the kerf's size for making precise multiple cuts on any piece of work. If you are unable to figure out the reason your wood cuts are always shorter, it could be due to the fact that you did not consider the 1/8-inch thickness of the saw blade.

The solution is simple—just cut your pencil for carpentry to match the width of the saw blade. While measuring, ensure that your cuts are on the outside edge of the mark. In addition, you'll also be able remove multiple pieces from the same board without having to worry about cutting too close.

Story Pole

A story pole functions as an instruction sheet for your project. It lists the measurements of an individual project in their actual dimensions, not numbers, making it an all-in-one source that can save time and helps eliminate headaches when designing and measuring. Story poles are commonly employed by carpenters to determine things such as the size of windows, siding, and doors. However, it is also used for many other purposes, from building furniture to building masonry.

Hand Measuring

The most effective tape measure is one that's always in reach whenever you require it, that is your hand!

Make use of a tape measure to determine the size of your fingers, hands, and arms. For some, for instance, two fingers in a row are around 1 inch. Find the length and width of your hands. Also, measure the distance from your fingertip to the forearm on both sides. When you need to measure a ballpark, just utilize your hands to determine lengths.

Synchronize Measuring Tapes

A quick and efficient method is to have multiple tape measures on your workstation. Affixing one to the table saw and another close to the area where you install it will eliminate the annoyance of having to switch between them in the event that you do not carry your tape measure.

While the markings on the majority of tapes are precise, however, the hooks may become bent or warped with time. To check for accuracy, pull the line of a straight edge using both tape measurements and compare the markings. It is best to have this carried out at the beginning of each project. However, at a minimum, it is worth a couple of seconds to ensure that no major harm has been caused if any tape has been damaged or dropped.