Creativity in Measures | Family Economics

By Cathe Holden

Everyday measurement tools can be used for much more than their intended purpose. Consider the possibilities by thinking a bit outside the box and repurpose them into unique craft, gift and decor projects.

Measuring Tapes:

• A vintage fabric measuring tape, often found in the bottom of a sewing box or at a local thrift store, can be used as a unique ribbon tied around a gift wrapped with layers of unused sewing pattern tissue.

• Use one to cinch a silk flower spray for a craft room display by wrapping it several times around the stems and tying into a bow.

• Heavier and inexpensive vinyl measuring tapes, purchased from the fabric store, can be wrapped and adhered around a simple tin can or drinking glass to make an unusual pencil cup or vase for your sewing nook.

• For easy to make key fobs, cut 6" lengths of the tape and fold in half. Either punch a hole and press in a grommet or attach ribbon end clamp hardware to the ends to hold a ring of keys.

Wooden Yard Sticks and Rulers:

• A collection of vintage or new yardsticks left plain, stained or painted can be used as chair rail trim above the kitchen wainscoting or nailed to the edge of a farmhouse table as a trim.

• Use a yardstick or your child's old 12" school ruler to make a fun key rack by screwing in cup hook hardware.

• Use several 12" rulers to frame a 1-foot square mirror tile. Add names, messages or graphics with rubber stamps to customize.

Folding Wood Rulers:

• Configure a carpenter's folding ruler into shapes such as a star, crown or monogram initial to create interesting wall decor. Use sticky party/poster tack to connect the ends and keep them from unfolding and hang from a small nail or rest atop a framed mirror or picture.

Even more:

• For a thoughtful, custom birthday card, photograph or scan a section of yardstick, ruler or measuring tape at the number of the recipient's age and enlarge, crop and print onto pre-scored greeting card stock. Print several of that numbered section onto paper, string together and hang as bunting for birthday party decor.

• You can also make a fun and unique tape measure growth chart with free downloads and instructions from my blog by clicking here.

What other ideas can you think of that can be created from traditional measuring devices? Share them!