Fold vs. Flex: The Ruler Rumble

In the trades, each craftsman has their own specific gear. For instance, a carpenter typically wears a tool belt, while an electrician uses a tool bag, and a plumber carries a toolbox. In my workshop, I prefer a small pouch that holds my most frequently used tools.

Inside my pouch, I keep a pencil, a knife, a compass, a bevel, and a 24-inch folding ruler. Some people find it unusual that I choose this pouch over a shop apron, and I often get asked why I don’t carry a tape measure. The main reason I avoid a shop apron is that adding more tools makes it heavy and uncomfortable, pulling down on my neck strap. Additionally, during the summer, wearing an apron adds an extra layer of clothing that can make me feel hotter.

As for the tape measure, I have several—one on each workbench and at the miter saw. 

However, most of my measuring tasks don’t require long measurements, so I don’t see the need to carry a 25-foot tape measure. I prefer using a folding ruler because it can perform tasks that a regular tape measure cannot, such as providing more precise measurements in certain situations.

Tape Measure VS. Folding Ruler

Using a folding ruler has several advantages. It is lightweight and easy to read, especially for measurements under an inch. Unlike a tape measure, which has a hook or tang at the end that can obscure fine increments for the first quarter inch, the folding ruler provides clear and easily visible measurements. Additionally, the hook on a tape measure can be a drawback; it often cannot fit into narrow openings, making it difficult to measure depths, such as those of a mortise. In contrast, the folding ruler excels in these situations, allowing for precise measurements in tight spaces.

A tape measure is excellent for measuring long spans of wood, primarily due to the curve or arch built into the tape. This arch provides rigidity, allowing the tape to remain straight over longer distances. However, this same feature can make it challenging to draw a straight line accurately.

In contrast, while a folding ruler is not designed for long distances, it excels at drawing straight lines. Additionally, in a pinch, a folding ruler can serve as a square for creating right angles, a bevel for transferring angles, or even a sector for various measurements.  This versatility makes it a valuable tool for various tasks. Look for an article on the sector in an upcoming newsletter for more insights on its uses.

Specialty Rulers

A variety of folding rulers come with different features that can enhance your measuring experience and are definitely worth adding to your collection. Some folding rulers include a sliding extension, which is a separate ruler attached to the main folding ruler. This feature is particularly useful for obtaining precise measurements of inside dimensions.

When you slide out the extension, you can easily add the measurements from the folding ruler to those on the extension scale. This capability is especially vital when measuring the insides of drawers or determining the correct dimensions for shelves in a bookcase. The sliding extension allows for greater accuracy and convenience, making it an essential tool for woodworking and cabinetry projects. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences and the specific requirements of the projects at hand.

Some folding rulers come with built-in calipers, which can be a useful feature for certain tasks. While you may not prioritize this feature, it can enhance precision when planning boards down to thickness. The calipers allow for more accurate measurements than a standard ruler, particularly for tasks that require a finer level of detail.

The Real Reason

The final reason I enjoy carrying a folding ruler is due to its nostalgic value. My grandfather had a six-foot folding ruler in his toolbox, which I used for many years. Eventually, I decided to switch to an older two-foot ruler from my collection. I’m not certain who the original owner of this folding ruler was, but I believe that if that craftsman were to see me using it today, he would feel proud and honored that his tools and methods have not been forgotten, but rather cherished and respected.