6 Best Tape Measures For Block Sizing To Use
Find the 6 best tape measures for block sizing in our expert review. Compare top-rated tools to improve your measuring accuracy and shop the perfect fit today.
Mastering the art of blocking is often what separates a handmade garment from one that looks truly professional. Precision during this final, crucial stage ensures that your hard work maintains its intended drape and shape over years of wear. A reliable tape measure is the foundation of this process, providing the data needed to stretch lace points or square off a stockinette sweater. Choosing the right tool simplifies the process, transforming a tedious task into a satisfying finishing step.
Clover Shiro Tape: Best Retractable for Totes
The Clover Shiro tape measure is a favorite for knitters who demand a clean, organized project bag. Its compact, circular design fits easily into small accessory pouches, ensuring it never gets tangled with circular needles or loose stitch markers.
The primary advantage of this tape is the smooth retraction mechanism, which prevents the tape from fraying or twisting over time. Because the casing is lightweight yet sturdy, it provides a consistent, reliable measurement without the bulk of a standard hardware-store tool.
When working on large totes or blankets, the ease of use becomes apparent quickly. It allows for quick, one-handed measurements while pinning your piece to blocking mats, saving precious time during the assembly process.
Dritz Soft Tape Measure: The Budget-Friendly Pick
The Dritz Soft tape measure is a staple in craft rooms for good reason. It offers an incredibly flexible, non-stretch vinyl construction that contours perfectly to the curves of a finished garment.
These tapes are perfect for beginners who want a versatile tool without the premium price tag. Because they lay completely flat, they are ideal for measuring across finished sweaters, scarves, or hats to ensure that the gauge matches the pattern requirements before steaming.
While the vinyl can eventually wear out or crack after heavy, multi-year use, the low cost makes it easy to replace whenever necessary. It is the practical, no-nonsense choice for the everyday knitter.
Lufkin Self-Centering Tape: For Large Shawls
Precision is vital when blocking complex lace shawls where symmetry is the ultimate goal. The Lufkin self-centering tape features a zero-point in the middle, allowing for instant calculation of centers without mental math.
This feature is a game-changer when you need to ensure both wings of a triangular shawl are stretched to identical lengths. By aligning the zero mark with the center spine, you can quickly verify that your blocking pins are placed symmetrically on both sides.
It eliminates the common error of measuring from one end to the other, which often leads to lopsided results. For serious shawl knitters, this tool provides a level of professional accuracy that standard tapes simply cannot match.
Singer ProSeries Locking Tape: Ultimate Accuracy
The Singer ProSeries locking tape is designed for those who need to freeze a measurement in place. The locking mechanism is exceptionally firm, preventing the tape from snapping back or slipping while you adjust pins on a blocking board.
This stability is essential when measuring large-scale projects like long sweaters or curtains where the tape might otherwise sag. The clear, high-contrast markings also reduce the risk of eye strain, particularly when working in dim lighting or with intricate, dark-colored yarn.
If you find that standard, free-flowing tapes cause frustration during delicate blocking work, the locking feature is worth the investment. It provides the steady hand needed to pin a garment with absolute confidence.
Cohana Sakura Tape: The Premium Heirloom Choice
The Cohana Sakura tape is as much a piece of art as it is a functional tool. Crafted with high-quality materials and exquisite attention to detail, it is the perfect gift for a knitter who appreciates the aesthetic experience of their hobby.
Beyond its beauty, the tape is highly durable and functional, featuring a smooth action and clear, easy-to-read numbers. It brings a sense of occasion to the final stages of a project, making the often-rushed blocking process feel more intentional.
While the cost is higher than a standard tool, the longevity and tactile satisfaction provide real value. It is a tool designed to be kept for a lifetime, aging gracefully alongside your collection of vintage needles and favorite patterns.
Fons & Porter Tape ‘n Go: The Quilter’s Fave
Though born in the quilting world, the Fons & Porter Tape ‘n Go has found a dedicated following among knitters. Its standout feature is an adhesive-backed version or a convenient clip-on design that allows for hands-free measurement.
This is especially helpful when you are working solo and need to hold a piece of knitting in place while checking its dimensions. By securing the tape to your blocking mat or surface, you can focus entirely on tensioning the yarn without fighting the tool itself.
It is particularly effective for block-sizing, where you need to check multiple dimensions simultaneously. If efficiency is your priority, this tool is likely the most practical addition to your blocking kit.
Retractable vs. Soft Tape: Which Is Right for You?
The choice between a retractable and a soft, flat tape measure often comes down to your personal workflow. Retractable tapes are excellent for keeping your kit organized and preventing the “spaghetti” tangle that often happens at the bottom of a project bag.
However, soft, flat tapes are superior for measuring the circumference of sleeves or cowls. Because they have no bulky casing, they can be looped around three-dimensional objects more easily than any retractable model.
- Retractable: Best for flat blocking and overall storage.
- Soft/Flat: Best for measuring circumference and curved edges.
The most versatile knitters usually keep one of each in their kit. Utilizing the right tool for the specific geometry of your project will always lead to a better final fit.
Why Your Tape Measure’s Material Actually Matters
Not all tape materials are created equal, and the differences can impact your gauge accuracy. Cheap, thin plastic tapes can stretch over time or shrink due to heat exposure, which is disastrous if you rely on them for high-precision blocking.
Fiber-reinforced vinyl tapes are the gold standard because they provide a stable surface that resists stretching. If your tape feels flimsy or “stretchy,” it is time to upgrade, as even a quarter-inch discrepancy can alter the drape of a finished sweater.
Always prioritize tapes with a fabric or reinforced core for your primary blocking work. A stable tool ensures that the garment measurements you see on the mat are exactly what you will experience when the garment is finally worn.
How to Measure Garments Accurately While Blocking
To get the most accurate measurement, always pin your garment to the blocking mat before checking the dimensions. Start by anchoring the center points, then gently work your way toward the edges to ensure even tension across the entire piece.
Avoid pulling the tape measure too tightly against the yarn, as this can compress the stitches and give you a false reading. Simply let the tape rest lightly on the surface of the knitting.
- Check the corners: Ensure all four corners are at right angles for a perfect square.
- Verify tension: Check that the density of the stitches looks consistent across the length of the tape.
- Double-check: Measure both horizontally and vertically to confirm the aspect ratio matches your pattern.
Taking these extra seconds to verify your measurements prevents the heartbreak of a piece that dries out of shape. Consistency is the secret to professional-looking knitwear.
Are All Inches Equal? A Guide to Tape Accuracy
One of the most common mistakes in knitting is assuming every tape measure is calibrated identically. Mass-produced tools can occasionally have slight inaccuracies in the print, which can throw off your gauge calculations.
To test your tape, compare it against a high-quality metal ruler or a carpenter’s square. If the markings drift after the first twelve inches, it is time to retire the tape or relegate it to non-critical tasks.
When working on fitted garments, even a minor variance can mean the difference between a perfect fit and a piece that is too tight or too loose. Treat your tape measure as a precision instrument, and your garments will reflect that extra level of care.
Investing in a high-quality tape measure is one of the simplest ways to elevate the quality of your finished knitwear. By choosing a tool that suits your project’s specific needs, you eliminate guesswork and gain total control over the blocking process. Regardless of which tape you select, the key to success lies in consistency, patience, and a commitment to precision. Happy knitting and even happier blocking.
