7 Best Retractable Tape Measures For Body Measurements
Find the perfect fit with our top 7 retractable tape measures. We review the most accurate, durable, and user-friendly tools for precise body measurements.
Achieving the perfect fit for a hand-knit sweater starts long before you pick up your needles. A reliable retractable tape measure is the quiet workhorse of your knitting bag, ensuring your gauge swatches and body measurements are spot on. Choosing the right tool prevents the heartbreak of a finished garment that doesn’t fit quite right. Here are my top picks for keeping your projects accurate and your measurements precise.
Hemline Retractable Tape: The Best Overall Choice
The Hemline retractable tape is a staple for a reason: it’s incredibly reliable and fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. When you are measuring for a complex colorwork yoke, you need a tool that doesn’t fray or tangle during the process.
This tape features a smooth retraction mechanism that rarely jams, which is a major upgrade over cheaper alternatives. The markings are clear and bold, making it easy to read even in the dim light of a cozy knitting nook.
If you’re prone to losing your tools in a project bag, the compact, sturdy casing is a lifesaver. It’s my go-to recommendation for beginners who need one dependable tool that will last through years of sweater-making.
Singer Professional Retractable Tape Measure
Singer has been a household name in sewing for generations, and their professional-grade tape reflects that heritage. The tape material itself is made from a high-quality, non-stretch fiberglass, which is essential for accurate body measurements.
In knitting, even a slight stretch in your tape measure can lead to a garment that is an inch or two off. Using a non-stretch material ensures that when you measure your bust or waist, you get a true reading that matches your pattern requirements.
It’s slightly heavier than other models, giving it a premium feel that many experienced knitters appreciate. If you value durability and consistent performance, this is a tool that will likely stay in your kit for a decade.
Dritz Sewing Gauge and Retractable Tape Tool
This tool is a clever hybrid that combines a standard retractable tape with a sliding gauge. It’s particularly useful when you need to measure short distances, like checking the length of your ribbing or the depth of a neckline.
Having the sliding gauge integrated means you can quickly check your row count or the size of a buttonhole without switching tools. It saves precious time when you’re in the middle of a complex lace pattern where focus is everything.
While it is a bit bulkier than a simple tape, the added functionality is worth the extra space. It’s an excellent choice for the knitter who loves efficiency and hates digging through their notions bag for multiple items.
Clover 150cm Retractable Tape for Precision
Clover is synonymous with high-end Japanese engineering, and their tape measure is no exception. The finish on the tape is matte, which prevents glare when you’re working under bright lamps or in natural sunlight.
The retraction button is exceptionally responsive, allowing you to stop the tape exactly where you need it. This precision is vital when you are measuring the length of a sleeve or the circumference of a hat to ensure the blocking will result in the correct size.
Because the tape is thin and flexible, it contours beautifully to the curves of the body. If you are knitting fitted garments that require exact measurements, this level of detail makes a noticeable difference in the final fit.
Q-Connect Soft Touch Retractable Tape Measure
The Q-Connect tape is designed with a soft-touch, ergonomic casing that feels great in the hand. If you’ve been knitting for hours and your hands are feeling a bit stiff, the grippy, comfortable texture is a welcome relief.
Beyond the comfort, the tape itself is highly legible with high-contrast markings. It’s perfect for those late-night knitting sessions when your eyes might be getting a little tired from counting stitches.
It is a simple, no-nonsense tool that does exactly what it promises without any fuss. For the knitter who wants a reliable, comfortable tape that doesn’t break the bank, this is a fantastic everyday option.
Prym Ergonomics Retractable Measuring Tape
Prym’s focus on ergonomics is evident here, with a shape that fits naturally into the palm. The tape is designed to be pulled out and retracted with minimal effort, which is ideal if you have any dexterity issues.
The tape features both imperial and metric measurements, which is a massive advantage if you switch between patterns from different designers. You won’t need to do any mental conversions, reducing the chance of a measurement error.
The casing is robust and designed to withstand the occasional drop on a hard floor. If you tend to be a bit hard on your tools, this durable design will serve you well for many seasons of knitting.
Fiskars 60-Inch Retractable Tape Measure
Fiskars is known for their quality blades and scissors, and they bring that same attention to detail to their measuring tools. This 60-inch tape is long enough to handle even the largest projects, such as measuring long shawls or large afghans.
The tape is reinforced, meaning it resists tearing even after years of being pulled in and out of your notions bag. It’s a workhorse tool that you can rely on to stay accurate, regardless of how often you use it.
The locking mechanism is solid and holds the tape firmly in place while you mark your measurements. For the serious maker who tackles large-scale projects, the extra length and durability make this a standout choice.
How to Measure Your Body for Accurate Knitting
To get the best fit, always measure your body while wearing the same undergarments you plan to wear under your finished sweater. A thin camisole or a well-fitting bra can change your bust measurement by an inch or more.
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the floor.
- Waist: Find your natural waistline, usually the narrowest point between your ribs and hips.
- Hips: Measure around the widest part of your hips to ensure proper drape over the lower body.
Don’t pull the tape too tight; it should sit comfortably against your skin. If you are measuring yourself, stand in front of a mirror to ensure the tape isn’t twisting or dipping in the back.
Why Retractable Tapes Beat Standard Tailor Tapes
Standard tailor tapes are notorious for stretching over time, especially if they are made of thin vinyl. A retractable tape is usually housed in a protective shell, which keeps the material stable and prevents it from being stretched or bent during storage.
Retractable tapes also stay cleaner because they are tucked away when not in use. They don’t collect dust or fuzz from your yarn, which can eventually obscure the measurement markings on a loose, hanging tape.
Finally, the convenience factor cannot be overstated. With a retractable tape, you avoid the "spaghetti mess" of a loose tape measure getting tangled with your circular needles or yarn tails.
Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Tape Measure
Never let the tape snap back quickly into the casing, as this can damage the internal spring mechanism. Always guide the tape back in manually to ensure it winds up evenly without folding or creasing.
If the tape does get dirty, wipe it down with a slightly damp cloth and let it dry completely before retracting it. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as these can cause the numbers to fade over time.
Store your tape in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. High heat can sometimes warp the plastic casing or cause the tape material to become brittle, leading to cracks or breaks.
Your measuring tape is as essential as your favorite needles or your go-to wool wash. By choosing a high-quality retractable tape and using it with care, you eliminate the guesswork that often leads to ill-fitting garments. Take the time to measure correctly, trust your tools, and your knitting will reach a new level of professional-looking success. Happy knitting!
