When you hear the term “double threat,” you probably think of performers who can both sing and act, such as Madonna or Jamie Foxx. But it’s also a fitting description for your tape measure, which can both measure and erase. Yes, it’s true — many standard tape measures feature a head designed to help you…
A Helpful Hack Beyond Measure
Some, but not all, tape measures have a rubber casing that’s not just for added grip — it can also be used to erase pencil marks from wood. Before we explain how, there are some important pitfalls to be aware of. First, never try this on drywall, as it’s likely to leave behind an unsightly mark. This trick is intended only for wooden materials. Also, be sure to use a tape measure with a rubber exterior and never one fully encased in metal, which will lead to unwanted scratches.
Now, let’s say you’re building a wooden bookshelf and accidentally make a pencil mark in the wrong place. Flip the tape measure over so the rubber side is facing the wood. Rub it against the pencil mark, moving with the grain of the wood rather than against it. After just a few strokes, you should notice the pencil marks start to fade and eventually disappear.
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No Pencil? No Problem
In addition to removing marks, tape measures can also help you make them, even if you don’t have a pencil on hand. It all depends on the serrated metal clip at the very end of the tape. As shown in this video from the YouTube account Try This DIY, you can use the clip to scratch a tiny guide mark into drywall or wood. These marks are helpful in a pinch, but are subtle enough to be painted over when the project is done.
