Best Non Metal Tape Measures for Body, Sewing, and Craft Projects
Find reliable non-metal tape measures that are ideal for body measurements, sewing, tailoring, and crafting. This guide highlights top options, comparing dual-sided readings, retractable features, and portability. Use these picks to track waistlines, garment dimensions, or project measurements with confidence. Each product is best for specific needs such as quick body checks, fabric work, or travel-friendly use.
| Product | Length | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| GDMINLO Soft Tape Measure Retractable | 150 cm / 60 in | Body measurements, fabric sewing | Dual sided with clear markings; retracts with push button |
| PERFECT MEASURING TAPE – 80” | 80 in / 2 m | Sewing, tailoring, travel kit | Dual side with fractions; retractable with pin lock |
| GDMINLO Soft Tape Measure Double Scale | 60 in / 150 cm | Weight loss, body measurements | Two scales, lightweight, read easily |
| KSEIBI 302910 Long Fiberglass Tape | 66 ft / 20 m | Construction prep, long measurements | Double-face printing, folding handle |
| BUSHIBU Tape Measure, 120 Inch | 120 in / 300 cm | Cloth/business sewing, weight loss | Two-unit scales, long reach |
GDMINLO Soft Tape Measure Retractable
The GDMINLO retractable soft tape features a non-stretch fiberglass core with dual-scale readings in inches and centimeters. It comes in a compact black case and offers a quick retract mechanism via a central button. Best for: beginners and DIY sewers who need a portable, easy-to-read body or fabric measuring tool. Limitation: the compact casing may feel tight for users needing a longer extended stay in measurement mode; ensure you reset fully to avoid misreads.
Perfect Measuring Tape – 80 Inch
This premium retractable tailor’s tape measures up to 80 inches with dual scale units and easy-to-read fractions. It is designed for sewing, fabric measurements, and garment fitting. Best for: intermediate sewists and dressmakers who value precise fraction readings and a sturdy metal end piece. Limitation: it uses vinyl-coated fiberglass; avoid bending sharply to prevent end wear.
GDMINLO Soft Tape Measure Double Scale
This white, double-scale tape provides both inches and centimeters on a soft, flexible vinyl measure. It includes clear black markings for quick reads and metal ends to prevent fraying. Best for: people tracking weight loss or body measurements who need a long, portable tool. Limitation: some users may prefer a pocket-size model for ultra-portable use.
KSEIBI 302910 Long Fiberglass Tape Measure
With a 66-foot length and dual-sided inch/metric printing, this fiberglass tape is designed for extended measuring tasks. It includes a retractable handle for storage and is built to resist wear. Best for: builders or hobbyists needing long-range measurements. Limitation: primarily designed for construction; may be overkill for small sewing tasks.
Tape Measure Body Measuring Tape, 120 Inch
This 120-inch soft fabric tape offers dual-unit scales with both metric and imperial readings. It is suited for weight loss tracking, body measurements, and sewing projects. Best for: long-reach measurements and clothing alterations where a longer tape matters. Limitation: the longer length may be less portable than pocket-size options.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Non-Metal Tape Measures
- Length and reach: Choose length based on use case. Short tapes work well for body measurements and sewing, while longer tapes suit fabric layout or weight-loss tracking.
- Reading clarity: Dual-scale tapes with large markings improve accuracy. Fractions on inch readings are helpful for sewing.
- Material and durability: Non-metal tapes are typically vinyl-coated or fiberglass cores. Consider whether you need folding, retractable, or pocket-friendly designs.
- End caps and fray protection: Tapes with metal or reinforced ends reduce wear and fraying during repeated use.
- Portability: If you travel or carry tools in a kit, select a compact, lightweight model with a reliable retraction mechanism.
- Special features: Dual-sided scales, push-button retraction, and long-range measurements can save time and improve accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a non-metal tape measure best used for?
– Non-metal tape measures are ideal for body measurements, sewing, tailoring, crafts, and fashion-related tasks where a flexible, soft tape is preferred. - Are dual-scale tapes easier to read?
– Yes, dual scales (inches and centimeters) allow quick cross-checks and reduce conversion errors during measurements. - Should I choose a longer tape for weight loss tracking?
– A longer tape (e.g., 120 inches) is useful for broader measurements, but for simple waist measurements, a shorter tape is often easier to manage. - Is retractable quality important?
– Yes, a reliable retract mechanism reduces wear and ensures the tape returns smoothly without getting stuck. - Can these tapes measure curved surfaces accurately?
– Yes, the flexible design helps measure curves, but keep the tape flat against the surface for accuracy. - Do these tapes come with a protective case?
– Many do come with a small plastic case for portability; check product details for your chosen model.