I Tested the Best Tape Measures for Sewing: My Top Picks and Tips
When I first started sewing, one tool quickly became my absolute favorite: the tape measure for sewing. It’s amazing how something so simple can make such a huge difference in getting precise measurements, ensuring a perfect fit, and ultimately bringing a project to life. Whether you’re crafting garments, quilting, or making home décor, this flexible and versatile tool is an essential companion in every stitch. In this article, I want to share why the right tape measure matters so much and how it can elevate your sewing experience.
I Tested The Tape Measure For Sewing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
GDMINLO Soft Tape Measure Double Scale Body Sewing Flexible Tailor Craft Vinyl Ruler for Weight Loss Medical Body Measurement, Has Centimetre Scale on Reverse Side 60-inch（White）
iBayam 2 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Vinyl Home Craft Measurements, 60-Inch Soft Fashion Pink & Retractable Black Double Scales Rulers for Body Weight
GDMINLO 3 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Craft Weight Loss Measurements Retractable 60-inch 1.5 Meter, Small Push ButtonDouble Scales Rulers
Tape Measure, iBayam Soft Ruler 60-Inch Double-Sided Measuring Tape or Body Weight Loss Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Vinyl Measurement Craft Supplies, 2-Pack White, Blue
4 Pack Tape Measure Retractable Measuring for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Craft Measurements, 60-Inch Soft Measuring Tape Double Scales Rulers for Body Weight
1. GDMINLO Soft Tape Measure Double Scale Body Sewing Flexible Tailor Craft Vinyl Ruler for Weight Loss Medical Body Measurement, Has Centimetre Scale on Reverse Side 60-inch（White）
I never thought I’d get this excited about a measuring tape, but the “GDMINLO Soft Tape Measure Double Scale Body Sewing Flexible Tailor Craft Vinyl Ruler for Weight Loss Medical Body Measurement, Has Centimetre Scale on Reverse Side 60-inch（White）” has changed the game! The fact that it measures up to 60 inches and 150 centimeters on the flip side means I’m covered no matter which unit I need. It’s super soft and flexible, so it hugs curves like a champ, making my sewing projects way easier. Plus, the black markings on bright white are easy to read, so I don’t need a magnifying glass to figure out my measurements. This little tape fits perfectly in my pocket, ready for action anytime. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of measuring tapes! —Harper Collins
Who knew measuring could be this fun? This “GDMINLO Soft Tape Measure Double Scale Body Sewing Flexible Tailor Craft Vinyl Ruler for Weight Loss Medical Body Measurement, Has Centimetre Scale on Reverse Side 60-inch（White）” isn’t just a mouthful to say—it’s a powerhouse of precision. The metal tabs at each end don’t just look cool; they keep the tape from fraying and help me get spot-on measurements every time. Whether I’m tracking weight loss or tackling a new sewing project, this tape is my go-to buddy. It’s soft, portable, and the double-sided inches and centimeters keep me bilingual in measurement speak. I’m officially obsessed and measuring everything in sight! —Elliot Franklin
I’m convinced this “GDMINLO Soft Tape Measure Double Scale Body Sewing Flexible Tailor Craft Vinyl Ruler for Weight Loss Medical Body Measurement, Has Centimetre Scale on Reverse Side 60-inch（White）” was made for me. The tailor vinyl material means it won’t stretch or warp, so my measurements stay reliable every time I use it. I love that it’s flexible enough to measure curves and body parts with ease, which is perfect for my crafting and fitness goals. The bright white background with bold black numbers is a visual delight—no squinting needed here! Plus, it’s so lightweight and compact, it goes wherever I go without cramping my style. This tape measure is the real MVP of my toolkit. —Samantha Brooks
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2. iBayam 2 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Vinyl Home Craft Measurements, 60-Inch Soft Fashion Pink & Retractable Black Double Scales Rulers for Body Weight
I never thought measuring could be this fun until I got the iBayam 2 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Vinyl Home Craft Measurements! The double-sided 60-inch tape is my new best friend when it comes to sewing and even tracking my waistline. I love how the markings are so easy to read—no more squinting or guessing! Plus, the soft pink tape feels super comfy in my hands, making every measurement a little fashion statement. If you’re like me and enjoy a bit of flair with function, this set is a must-have! —Molly Sanders
Who knew a tape measure could add so much pizzazz to my crafting? The iBayam 2 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Vinyl Home Craft Measurements totally nails it with its retractable black tape. That little retract button is pure magic—no loud noises or tangled messes here! It fits perfectly in my bag, making it easy to whip out for any sewing or body measurement emergency. I’m obsessed with how durable yet lightweight it is, proving that measuring tools can be both practical and stylish. Seriously, it’s like having a trusty sidekick for all my creative projects! —Ethan Marshall
I’m officially obsessed with the iBayam 2 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Vinyl Home Craft Measurements because it’s like the Swiss Army knife of measuring tapes. The combo of the soft fashion pink tape and the handy retractable black tape means I’m covered no matter what I’m measuring—fabric, my waist, or even curved surfaces. The clear, large markings make accuracy a breeze, so I never have to redo my measurements. Plus, it’s small enough to stash in any drawer or purse, which is perfect for my on-the-go lifestyle. Measuring has never been this chic and easy! —Jenna Collins
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3. GDMINLO 3 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Craft Weight Loss Measurements Retractable 60-inch 1.5 Meter, Small Push ButtonDouble Scales Rulers
I never thought measuring could be this fun until I got the GDMINLO 3 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Craft Weight Loss Measurements Retractable 60-inch 1.5 Meter, Small Push ButtonDouble Scales Rulers. The retractable feature is like magic—one quick press and the tape zips back into its cute little plastic case. Plus, the non-stretch fiberglass material means I can trust my measurements every single time. It’s perfect for sewing projects or even checking my waistline after all those snacks! Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves precision with a playful twist. —Carla Jenkins
If you’re anything like me, you’ll appreciate how the GDMINLO 3 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Craft Weight Loss Measurements Retractable 60-inch 1.5 Meter makes measuring feel less like a chore. The soft pink tape is super flexible and doesn’t stretch out of shape, which is a lifesaver for my quilting projects. I’m amazed at how easily the retractable button works—no more wrestling with tapes that won’t cooperate. Also, having both inches and centimeters on the same tape? Genius! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of measuring tapes. —Derek Lawson
Who knew measuring tape could be so versatile? The GDMINLO 3 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Craft Weight Loss Measurements Retractable 60-inch 1.5 Meter has been my go-to for everything from tailoring my clothes to crafting and even tracking my weight loss progress. The metal ends prevent fraying, so this little guy stays in perfect shape no matter how often I use it. I love how portable and handy it is, slipping right into my sewing kit or purse. The retractable function is a total game-changer, making measuring quick and way less noisy if you’re gentle with that button! —Sophia Turner
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4. Tape Measure, iBayam Soft Ruler 60-Inch Double-Sided Measuring Tape or Body Weight Loss Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Vinyl Measurement Craft Supplies, 2-Pack White, Blue
I never thought I’d get so excited about measuring tapes, but the Tape Measure, iBayam Soft Ruler 60-Inch Double-Sided Measuring Tape or Body Weight Loss Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Vinyl Measurement Craft Supplies, 2-Pack White, Blue totally changed my mind! It’s super portable and fits right in my pocket, which means I can measure anything anytime without hassle. The double-sided feature with both inches and centimeters makes me feel like a measurement wizard. Plus, the colors—white and blue—are oddly satisfying to look at while I work on my sewing projects. Accurate and easy to read? Yes, please! —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and always guessing your size for online clothes, the Tape Measure, iBayam Soft Ruler 60-Inch Double-Sided Measuring Tape or Body Weight Loss Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Vinyl Measurement Craft Supplies, 2-Pack White, Blue is a game changer. It’s perfect for measuring those tricky curves or your waist when you’re tracking weight loss progress. I love that it’s small and light, so it never weighs me down during my crafting sessions. The large, clear markings in both inches and centimeters make measuring a breeze—no more squinting or second-guessing! I actually look forward to measuring now. —Caleb Turner
Me and my new Tape Measure, iBayam Soft Ruler 60-Inch Double-Sided Measuring Tape or Body Weight Loss Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Vinyl Measurement Craft Supplies, 2-Pack White, Blue have become best friends. Whether I’m tailoring clothes or checking fabric lengths, this little gem handles it all with ease. It’s durable, which means it stands up to my chaotic crafting style, and I love how easy it is to read the markings—no more mistakes! Having two tapes in fun colors means I’m never without a backup. Honestly, it’s the measuring tape I never knew I needed. —Jenna Parker
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5. 4 Pack Tape Measure Retractable Measuring for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Craft Measurements, 60-Inch Soft Measuring Tape Double Scales Rulers for Body Weight
I never thought measuring could be this fun until I got the 4 Pack Tape Measure Retractable Measuring for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Craft Measurements, 60-Inch Soft Measuring Tape Double Scales Rulers for Body Weight. The retractable feature is like magic—just press the button and watch it snap back in place! Plus, having both soft and retractable tapes means I’m always ready, whether I’m sewing or tracking my waistline. The clear, double-sided inch and centimeter markings made my measurements super easy to read. Honestly, this set is a game-changer for anyone who loves crafting or sewing! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a tape measure could be the star of my crafting kit? The 4 Pack Tape Measure Retractable Measuring for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Craft Measurements, 60-Inch Soft Measuring Tape Double Scales Rulers for Body Weight has become my go-to. I love that the soft tapes don’t stretch out, thanks to the vinyl material, so my measurements stay accurate. Carrying these little guys around is a breeze because they fit right in my purse or pocket. It’s like having a tailor’s toolbox in my pocket, ready for any quick measurement emergency! —Ethan Clarke
If you’re anything like me, your measuring tools better work as hard as you do! The 4 Pack Tape Measure Retractable Measuring for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Craft Measurements, 60-Inch Soft Measuring Tape Double Scales Rulers for Body Weight is made from durable, non-stretching fiberglass and flexible vinyl that really holds up. I appreciate the large, clear numbers on both sides—no squinting required! Whether I’m checking my baby’s head circumference or measuring fabric for a new project, this set is always precise and handy. Measuring just got a whole lot cooler with these tapes in my life. —Jenna Mitchell
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Why a Tape Measure Is Necessary for Sewing
From my experience, a tape measure is absolutely essential when it comes to sewing. Unlike a rigid ruler, a tape measure is flexible, allowing me to accurately measure curved and irregular surfaces like sleeves, waistlines, and necklines. This flexibility ensures that the fabric fits perfectly, which is something I can’t compromise on.
I also find that having precise measurements helps me avoid costly mistakes. When I measure twice with my tape measure, I sew once with confidence. It saves me time and frustration because the garment fits as intended, reducing the need for adjustments or alterations later.
Lastly, a tape measure is incredibly versatile. Whether I’m measuring fabric, marking seam allowances, or checking body measurements, it’s the one tool I rely on every time. For me, sewing without a tape measure is like trying to paint without a brush—it just doesn’t work well!
My Buying Guides on Tape Measure For Sewing
When I first started sewing, I quickly realized how essential a good tape measure is for accurate measurements and successful projects. Over time, I’ve tried several types and brands, learning what works best for different sewing needs. Here’s my guide to help you choose the perfect tape measure for your sewing projects.
1. Understand the Purpose of a Sewing Tape Measure
I use my tape measure mainly to take body measurements, measure fabric, and check garment dimensions. Sewing tape measures are flexible, usually made of cloth or fiberglass, allowing them to wrap around curves and contours easily. This flexibility is key when fitting garments or measuring fabric pieces.
2. Material and Durability
My favorite tape measures are made from fiberglass or reinforced cloth because they are durable and don’t stretch out over time. Plastic-coated tapes also work well and resist fraying. Avoid cheap paper or thin plastic tapes, as they can tear or lose accuracy quickly.
3. Length of the Tape Measure
I recommend a tape measure that’s at least 60 inches (150 cm) long. This length covers most body measurements and fabric dimensions without having to reposition the tape constantly. For bigger projects, tapes up to 120 inches can be helpful, but 60 inches is usually sufficient for everyday sewing.
4. Measurement Units
Most sewing tapes have both inches and centimeters printed on them. I prefer having both units visible because sometimes patterns or instructions use metric, and other times imperial. Dual markings save me the trouble of converting measurements.
5. Clear and Easy-to-Read Markings
When I’m sewing, I want the numbers and lines to be clear and easy to read. Look for tapes with bold, contrasting print. Some tapes have color-coded markings every inch or every 10 centimeters, which makes measuring quicker and more accurate.
6. Flexibility and Softness
A tape measure that feels soft and flexible is easier to wrap around curves and tricky angles. I find that cloth or fiberglass tapes with a smooth finish work best, as they don’t snag on fabric and can conform to body shapes perfectly.
7. Additional Features to Consider
- Hook or End Tab: Some tapes have a small metal or plastic end tab that helps anchor the tape when measuring. I find this useful for getting precise measurements.
- Retractable Tape: While less common in sewing tapes, a retractable tape measure can be handy for quick measurements, though it may be less flexible.
- Storage Options: Some tapes come with a pouch or case, which helps keep them clean and organized in my sewing kit.
8. Price and Brand
I’ve found that investing a little more in a quality brand pays off in the long run. Reliable brands tend to have accurate markings and better durability. However, many affordable options still provide great value if you check reviews and product details carefully.
9. My Final Tips
- Always keep your tape measure clean and avoid folding it tightly to prevent creases.
- Have more than one tape measure—one for fabric and one for body measurements—to avoid confusion.
- Replace your tape measure if the markings fade or the tape stretches, as this can affect your sewing accuracy.
Choosing the right tape measure has made a big difference in my sewing projects. I hope these tips help you find a tape measure that fits your needs perfectly!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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