How to Use a Bubble Level

A bubble level is a device used in construction, carpentry and photography that determines if objects on which you're working are level. Used properly, a bubble level can help you create flawlessly level pieces of furniture, staircases and homes. A bubble level is also helpful when setting up a tripod for photographs. Using a bubble level properly requires an understanding of some basic concepts.

Instructions

1. Determine the size of the bubble level for your particular project. Use a 4-foot bubble level for carpentry and construction projects. Use a 2-foot bubble level for hanging artwork, mirrors and shelving units. Use a tripod with a bubble level to confirm that your photography and videography projects are even.

2. Place the table or cabinet you are building on a perfectly flat surface. Place a 4-foot bubble level on the table or cabinet. The air bubble in the clear tube automatically floats to the top. If the center of your surface is level, the air bubble will go to the center of the clear tube. If the surface is not even, the air bubble will float to one side or the other. Once the center of your surface is level, use the bubble level on either end of the surface to confirm that the table is level with the ground. If the bubble does not float to the center top of the level, the surface is uneven, and you must make the needed adjustments.

3. Lay the 2-foot bubble level on top of the mirror, artwork or shelves you are hanging. Watch for the bubble in the level's clear tube to float to the center of the tube. Your mirror, artwork or shelving is level if the bubble floats to the center of the clear tube. If it does not float to the exact center, the piece you are hanging is not level; adjust one side of the mirror, artwork or shelving to make it level. Test it again with by placing the level on top of your wall hanging.

4. Position your photography or videography tripod, equipped with a bubble level, where you will be shooting photos or videos. The bubble level is a clear circular spot on the top of the tripod with an interior circular marking. If the tripod is perfectly level, the bubble level will float to the center of the circle marking. If the bubble floats outside the circle, the tripod is not perfectly level; adjust the legs of the tripod as needed. Check the bubble again until you get the tripod set up level for your shot.

References

• Hankins Lawrence Images: Use a Bubble Level to Take Better Photos
• Chicago Tribune: Getting the Hang of a Carpenter's Level