There are two main types of measuring tapes. A retractable, metal measuring tape is used for measuring straight lengths, such as boards, windows, or rooms. A soft cloth or paper measuring tape is used for measuring items that are not straight, such as a person's waist or the circumference of a beach ball. Both types of measuring tapes are marked with lines to show inches. While some measuring tapes show both inches and centimeters, here we will discuss only those that measure in inches.
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