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The Daily Insight

What is Carpenter ruler?

Author

John Peck

Updated on April 02, 2026

Definitions of carpenter’s rule. a rule used by a carpenter. type of: rule, ruler. measuring stick consisting of a strip of wood or metal or plastic with a straight edge that is used for drawing straight lines and measuring lengths.

What is a folding rule?

Folding rules, sometimes called zig-zag rules or jointed rules, are a series of two or more smaller rule strips joined with hinges. These rules can be folded together to be carried easily, or used in confined spaces. Once the strips are opened out they can usually be fixed into place, which creates a long rigid rule.

Are wooden rulers accurate?

Wood rules work great when it is impractical to use a tape measure. They are great in tight areas, or when you are measuring small distances. When you do use one, just make sure that it is accurate.

What is zigzag rule?

noun. a rule composed of light strips of wood joined by rivets so as to be foldable, all the opening and closing parts being in parallel planes.

What do you call a folded measuring tool?

Most people call these “Carpenters Rulers” , or a “Folding Carpenter Ruler” , either way they fold and work great in most applications where a sturdy tape measure is called for. Most people that use a folding tape enjoy being able to hold with one hand and mark off. measurements with the other hand.

Why are rulers thinner at the edge?

Steel rulers may be flexible or non flexible, but the thinner the ruler, the easier it is to measure accurately because the division marks are closer to the work.

What does a ruler measure?

A ruler can be defined as a tool or device used to measure length and draw straight lines. A ruler or measuring tape can be used to measure lengths in both metric and customary units. Here, the ruler is marked in centimeters (cms) along the top and in inches along the bottom.

What types of rulers did carpenters use in the 1800s?

Rules that folded in half, thirds, and quarters were common. Stanley made a zig-zag rule that was hinged in brass in 15 places, while interlocking rulers allowed carpenters to take inside measurements. Another type of ruler favored by carpenters was the combination rule, which could include a level, inclinometer, square,…

What kind of ruler has a caliper on it?

Some have a caliper on the end, but most are the plain folding types. Most of these were manufactured from about 1820’s – 1950’s, although some might still be made today. When looking for a boxwood ruler I usually look for ones that have brass outlining the wood.

What are the different types of rulers?

The patina on these is usually quite stunning when you find one that is a mixture of brass and wood. Boxwood rulers, cabinet makers rule, or the carpenter’s rule as some are called come in a variety of lengths. Some have a caliper on the end, but most are the plain folding types.

Why do wooden rulers fold in half?

From the start, the impracticality of very long rulers was obvious, so carpenters and tool makers alike devised ways to fold their wooden rulers so the tool would be easy to store and move from job to job. Rules that folded in half, thirds, and quarters were common.