As a tailor, one of the essential tools in your kit is the measuring tape. From getting precise measurements for suits, dresses, or alterations to ensuring a perfect fit for your clients, having a reliable tape is paramount. While there are different types of measuring tapes available, two of the most commonly used by tailors are fiberglass and cloth tapes. The debate on which is better has been ongoing, but the truth is that both have their unique strengths. Choosing between the two often boils down to personal preference and specific requirements.
In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both fiberglass and cloth measuring tapes to help you make an informed decision.
Fiberglass Measuring Tapes
Fiberglass measuring tapes are made from strands of fiberglass coated in plastic, offering strength and flexibility. These tapes are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Advantages of Fiberglass Measuring Tapes
- Durability: Fiberglass measuring tapes are incredibly strong and resistant to stretching. Unlike cloth tapes, which may lose their shape over time, fiberglass tapes maintain their accuracy for a longer period. This is especially beneficial when you’re working with delicate fabrics or complex designs that require pinpoint precision.
- Waterproof and Resistant to Humidity: Fiberglass is waterproof, making it an excellent choice for tailors who work in humid environments or who need to wash their measuring tapes regularly. The tape’s resistance to water prevents warping or shrinking, ensuring that it retains its original length and markings.
- Resistant to Creasing: Unlike cloth tapes, which can crease or fold after extensive use, fiberglass tapes maintain their straightness. This ensures that you can get an accurate measurement every time without the risk of deformities caused by creases or folds.
- Lightweight: Despite their sturdy construction, fiberglass tapes are lightweight, making them easy to carry and handle. This can be especially important when you’re measuring larger items like drapes or long fabric rolls.
Disadvantages of Fiberglass Measuring Tapes
Stiffness: While the stiffness of fiberglass tapes makes them resistant to creasing, it can be a downside for tailors who need a more flexible tool. Fiberglass tapes can sometimes feel rigid and harder to wrap around curved or irregular shapes, making them less ideal for measuring certain body parts.
More Expensive: Fiberglass measuring tapes tend to be slightly more expensive than their cloth counterparts. For those just starting out or on a tight budget, this can be a consideration when choosing which tape to invest in.
Cloth Measuring Tapes
Cloth measuring tapes, usually made from woven cotton or a cotton blend, are a staple in many tailors’ toolkits. They have been used for centuries and are still favored by many professionals for their flexibility and ease of use.
Advantages Of Cloth Measuring Tapes
- Flexibility: Cloth measuring tapes are extremely flexible, allowing them to easily wrap around curved surfaces and bodies. This makes them ideal for taking body measurements, as they can hug the body’s contours more closely, providing a more accurate reading in these situations.
- Comfortable to Handle: Cloth tapes feel soft in the hand, which can make a difference during long hours of work. Tailors often appreciate the tactile quality of cloth tapes, which can be easier to manipulate during fittings.
- Cost-Effective: Cloth measuring tapes are generally more affordable than fiberglass ones, making them a great option for tailors who are just starting out or those who need a variety of tapes on hand.
- Lightweight and Easy to Store: Cloth tapes can be folded up or rolled easily for storage. Because they’re soft and flexible, they take up very little space in a sewing kit or a drawer. Their light weight also means they can be carried effortlessly, making them convenient for tailors on the go.
Disadvantages of Cloth Measuring Tapes
- Prone to Stretching: Over time, cloth tapes may stretch or warp, especially if they’re used frequently. This can result in inaccurate measurements if not regularly checked. Tailors who use cloth tapes often may need to replace them periodically to ensure continued accuracy.
- Absorbs Moisture: Cloth tapes can absorb moisture, which can lead to mold or deterioration over time if not stored properly. This can be an issue for tailors working in humid conditions or those who need to wash their tapes regularly. Additionally, exposure to moisture can lead to shrinking, which can alter the tape’s accuracy.
- Creasing: Cloth measuring tapes can develop creases, particularly if they’re not stored flat or rolled neatly. Creases can make the tape difficult to read and affect its accuracy when measuring long, straight lines.
Choosing the Right Tape: A Matter of Preference
Ultimately, whether you choose a fiberglass or cloth measuring tape depends on your personal preference and how you work as a tailor.
If durability and long-lasting precision are your top priorities, fiberglass measuring tapes might be the best choice for you. Their resistance to stretching, water, and humidity makes them ideal for tailors who work in various environments or need their tape to withstand frequent use without losing accuracy.
On the other hand, if you prioritize flexibility and ease of use when taking body measurements, cloth measuring tapes are a time-tested, reliable option. They’re soft, easy to handle, and inexpensive, making them a great option for tailors who need multiple tapes for different projects or fittings.
Both fiberglass and cloth measuring tapes offer distinct advantages and some limitations, but neither is inherently better than the other. The choice ultimately comes down to your personal working style and the demands of your tailoring projects. For most tailors, having both types on hand can be the best solution, allowing you to choose the right tool for each unique measurement.