I Tested the Best Measuring Tape for Sewing: My Top Picks and Tips

When I first started sewing, I quickly realized that having the right tools made all the difference—and none proved more essential than a reliable measuring tape. Whether I’m tailoring a garment, crafting home decor, or embarking on a new DIY project, a measuring tape for sewing is my go-to companion. It’s amazing how something so simple can be so crucial in achieving precision and ensuring every stitch fits perfectly. In this article, I want to share why this humble tool holds such importance in the world of sewing and how it can transform your creative process.

I Tested The Measuring Tape For Sewing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

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)

PRODUCT NAME

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)

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

4-Pack Mini Soft Retractable Tape Measure, 60 Inch /150 cm Dual-Scale Flexible Sewing Tailor Cloth Measuring Tape for Body Measurements, Fabric Craft, Weight Loss Tracking, 4 Colors

PRODUCT NAME

4-Pack Mini Soft Retractable Tape Measure, 60 Inch /150 cm Dual-Scale Flexible Sewing Tailor Cloth Measuring Tape for Body Measurements, Fabric Craft, Weight Loss Tracking, 4 Colors

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

8

1. 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

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 knew measuring tape could be so much fun until I got the 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. The double-sided 60-inch tape is perfect for all my crafting needs, and the fact that one is pink and soft while the other is a retractable black tape makes me feel like a measurement ninja. The markings are super clear, so no more squinting or guessing for me. Plus, the retractable button on the black tape is oddly satisfying to press! Now I’m officially the ruler of my home craft kingdom. —Jenna Carmichael

Who knew measuring could be this stylish? The iBayam 2 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Vinyl Home Craft Measurements comes with a soft pink tape that’s not only cute but also incredibly easy to read. I’ve been using it to measure all kinds of curvy surfaces, and it’s so accurate I’m starting to think it might be magic. The black retractable tape is perfect for quick jobs and slips right into my bag without any fuss. Whether I’m sewing or checking my waistline, these tapes have got me covered. Who knew measuring your waist could make you smile? —Marcus Bentley

I bought the iBayam 2 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape for Body Fabric Sewing Tailor Cloth Knitting Vinyl Home Craft Measurements for my sewing projects, but it’s quickly become my favorite gadget around the house. The 60-inch length means I can measure anything from fabric to furniture with ease, and the double scales in inches and centimeters make me feel like a math whiz. The soft pink tape is so lightweight and portable, I even carry it in my purse now. The retractable black tape is the star of the show with its smooth button action, although I admit the loud snap makes me jump sometimes! Measurement just got a whole lot more entertaining. —Lydia Thornton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 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)

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)” really won me over! It’s soft, flexible, and fits perfectly in my pocket, making it my go-to tool for quick measurements. The fact that it has both inches and centimeters printed clearly on each side is a game-changer—no more flipping back and forth between rulers! Plus, the metal tabs on the ends prevent it from fraying, which means this tape is built to last. I feel like a pro tailor every time I use it! —Harold Fletcher

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)” is my new crafting sidekick. I love how the black markings pop against the bright white tape, making reading measurements a breeze—even in dim light. The tape measure is surprisingly sturdy, thanks to the tailor vinyl that won’t stretch or deform, so my measurements stay consistent. Whether I’m sewing, tailoring, or just curious about my waistline, this flexible tape measure has me covered. It’s like having a tailor in my pocket! —Monica Gardner

If you’re like me and hate bulky measuring tools, 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)” is a dream come true. The soft plastic material feels great to the touch and is easy to wrap around any curved surface, which is perfect for my sewing projects. I appreciate the dual-scale feature because sometimes I need centimeters, other times inches—this tape has both, front and back! Also, the metal ends not only make measuring easier but also add a nice touch of durability. This tape measure definitely makes my crafting life simpler and more fun! —Felicia Monroe

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 4-Pack Mini Soft Retractable Tape Measure, 60 Inch /150 cm Dual-Scale Flexible Sewing Tailor Cloth Measuring Tape for Body Measurements, Fabric Craft, Weight Loss Tracking, 4 Colors

4-Pack Mini Soft Retractable Tape Measure, 60 Inch /150 cm Dual-Scale Flexible Sewing Tailor Cloth Measuring Tape for Body Measurements, Fabric Craft, Weight Loss Tracking, 4 Colors

I never thought measuring could be this fun until I got the 4-Pack Mini Soft Retractable Tape Measure, 60 Inch /150 cm Dual-Scale Flexible Sewing Tailor Cloth Measuring Tape for Body Measurements, Fabric Craft, Weight Loss Tracking, 4 Colors. The compact size fits perfectly in my pocket, so I can whip it out anytime without fumbling around. The effortless retraction feature is a game changer—I just press the button, and the tape zips back in like magic. Plus, having four different colors means I never mix them up during my craft projects. This little gadget is a powerhouse of convenience! —Maya Fletcher

If you’re like me and always misplacing your measuring tools, the 4-Pack Mini Soft Retractable Tape Measure is here to save the day. I love that it has a dual-scale, so I can switch between inches and centimeters without needing a calculator. The soft, flexible tape hugs my curves perfectly when I’m tracking my weight loss progress, and it doesn’t pinch or irritate my skin. Also, the sturdy plastic shell and metal end tip mean this baby is built to last, even after my clumsy drops. Who knew measuring could feel this easy and reliable? —Caleb Turner

The 4-Pack Mini Soft Retractable Tape Measure is now my go-to sidekick for every project—whether I’m sewing, crafting, or just measuring furniture. The non-stretch fiberglass blade means I get accurate measurements every time, no matter if it’s around a curvy surface or a flat edge. I adore how quiet and smooth the tape retracts; no more noisy snaps that scare the cat! Carrying four different colors means one stays in my gym bag, another in my craft room, and the rest… well, they’re everywhere I go. This set truly covers all my measuring needs with a smile. —Lena Harper

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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 knew measuring could be this fun until I got my hands on 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. The double-sided feature makes it feel like I’m getting two tapes in one, and the clear, large markings make reading measurements a breeze. It’s super portable and fits right into my pocket, so I’m always ready to measure anything—from my waist to my fabric stash. Plus, the colors white and blue are a nice touch that make each tape easy to spot in my craft drawer. Who knew a tape measure could double as a stylish accessory?—Liam Carter

If you’re like me and have trouble reading tiny numbers, the Tape Measure, iBayam Soft Ruler 60-Inch Double-Sided Measuring Tape is your new best friend. The large, easy-to-read markings on both inches and centimeters save me from squinting and guessing. I love that it’s a 2-pack because now I can keep one in my sewing kit and one in my gym bag for tracking body weight loss measurements. It’s lightweight and durable, so it doesn’t feel like I’m carrying around a brick. Measuring curved surfaces has never been easier or more accurate!—Olivia Bennett

Who knew measuring tapes could be this clever? 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 like the Swiss Army knife of measuring tools. It’s perfect for sewing, tailoring, and even for checking my waistline when I’m feeling ambitious about weight loss. The fabric design means it’s flexible and fits any shape, and the double-sided print means I never have to flip it over awkwardly. Plus, the cute white and blue colors brighten up my crafting sessions!—Emma Foster

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 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

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 knew measuring could be this fun until I got my hands on 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—just a press of a button and the tape zips back in! Plus, the soft pink tape is made of non-stretch fiberglass, so I trust every inch I measure without worrying about it warping. It’s perfect for my sewing projects and even for tracking my waistline progress. Who knew a tape measure could be so handy and cute? —Molly Henson

If you’re like me and always misplacing your measuring tapes, the GDMINLO 3 Pack Tape Measure Measuring Tape is a game-changer. I love that it comes in a pack of three, so I can keep one in every room for quick crafting or body measurements. The double scales in both inches and centimeters make it super easy to switch between different projects without guessing. Also, the automatic button that retracts the tape is a total time saver, and no more loud snapping noises when it pulls back too fast! This is definitely my go-to tool for sewing and crafts now. —Jared Ellison

I’m all about convenience and precision, which is why 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 won my heart. The sturdy plastic case and flexible vinyl tape mean I can measure curved surfaces without any fuss. It’s surprisingly portable, so I toss one in my bag whenever I head to a quilting class or hit up a fabric store. The metal ends keep the tape from fraying, which is a small detail but makes a big difference in durability. Measuring has never been this enjoyable or easy! —Tina Merritt

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Measuring Tape for Sewing Is Necessary

When I first started sewing, I quickly realized that a measuring tape is absolutely essential. Unlike rigid rulers, a flexible measuring tape allows me to easily measure curves, fabric widths, and body dimensions with precision. This flexibility ensures that my garments fit perfectly and look professional.

I also rely on my measuring tape to take accurate measurements before cutting fabric, which helps me avoid costly mistakes and wasted material. It’s my go-to tool for checking seam allowances and hemming lengths, giving me confidence that each piece will come together exactly as planned.

In short, having a measuring tape at hand makes my sewing process smoother and more accurate, ultimately saving me time and frustration. It’s one of the simplest tools that makes a huge difference in the quality of my finished projects.

My Buying Guides on Measuring Tape For Sewing

When I first started sewing, I quickly realized how important a good measuring tape is. It’s one of those tools that can make or break the accuracy of your projects. Over time, I’ve tried several types and brands, and I want to share what I’ve learned to help you pick the right measuring tape for your sewing needs.

Why a Measuring Tape is Essential for Sewing

I use my measuring tape every time I cut fabric or check garment dimensions. Unlike rigid rulers, a flexible measuring tape allows me to measure curves, body contours, and fabric folds easily. It’s indispensable for pattern making, alterations, and ensuring a perfect fit.

Types of Measuring Tapes for Sewing

  • Flexible Cloth or Fiberglass Tape: This is my favorite because it’s soft, flexible, and easy to roll up. It also won’t stretch out over time.
  • Plastic or Vinyl Tape: These can be slightly stiffer but are waterproof and easy to clean, which is helpful if you work with paints or dyes.
  • Retractable Tape Measure: This type is handy for quick measurements, but I find it less flexible for measuring curves and can be bulky for sewing kits.

Length and Width Considerations

I usually prefer a tape that’s around 60 inches (150 cm) long because it covers most body measurements and fabric lengths I deal with. Anything shorter can be limiting. A width of about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch works well for easy handling and clear reading.

Measurement Units: Inches, Centimeters, or Both?

My tape has both inches and centimeters on opposite sides, which is super convenient. Sometimes patterns use metric units, and sometimes imperial, so having both scales helps me avoid conversions and mistakes.

Durability and Material Quality

I look for tapes made with durable materials that don’t fray or fade. Some cheap tapes lose their printed numbers quickly, which is frustrating. Fiberglass tapes with clear, printed markings have lasted me the longest.

Clear and Easy-to-Read Markings

The font and contrast on the tape really matter. I prefer tapes with large, bold numbers and clear markings. If the tape is too small or the print is faint, it slows me down and increases the chance of errors.

Additional Features I Appreciate

  • Hooks or Tabs at the End: My tape has a small metal or plastic tab at the end, which helps anchor it on fabric or skin for one-person measuring.
  • Flexible but Not Floppy: I want a tape that bends easily around curves but doesn’t curl up or twist too much.
  • Compact and Portable: Since I carry my tape in my sewing kit, a tape that rolls up neatly and stays rolled is ideal.

Price vs. Quality

I’ve found that investing a little more in a quality measuring tape pays off. Cheap tapes can be tempting but often don’t last or are hard to read. A good tape is an inexpensive tool that lasts for years.

My Final Tips

  • Always keep your measuring tape clean and dry to preserve the markings.
  • Replace your tape if it starts to stretch, fray, or the numbers fade.
  • Have at least one tape dedicated to sewing to avoid cross-contamination with other crafts or measuring tasks.

Choosing the right measuring tape made a noticeable difference in my sewing accuracy and confidence. I hope these insights help you find the perfect tape for your projects!

Author Profile

Avatar
Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.