Home Building And Repairs

How to Draw a Circle with a Tape Measure


In this video, Greg demonstrates a simple and effective technique for drawing a perfect circle using only a tape measure and a pencil. This method, passed down through generations of carpenters, is a valuable skill for anyone who needs to create precise circles in their work.

The process starts by finding the center point of the desired circle. Once the center is identified, a nail is hammered in to secure the tape measure in place.

With the center secured, the next step involves selecting the desired radius on the tape measure and holding the pencil against that mark.

Finally, by rotating the tape measure while keeping the pencil steady, a complete circle is formed.

This technique is advantageous due to its simplicity and the minimal tools required. By following these steps and with a little practice, anyone can learn to draw perfect circles using this method.

Bonus Tips

Double-check measurements: Ensure accuracy by carefully re-checking the measurements before marking the center and radius of your circle.

Sharp pencil is key: A sharp pencil will create cleaner and more defined lines, resulting in a more precise circle.

Practice makes perfect: As with any skill, mastering this technique requires practice. The more you practice drawing circles with a tape measure, the better you will become.

Explore different sizes: Once you've grasped the basic technique, challenge yourself by trying to draw circles of various sizes.

Chalk line for larger circles: When drawing larger circles, consider using a chalk line instead of a pencil to create a more visible and accurate guide.

Back To Home Building

Our Favorite Construction Books
Stair Building Tutorials
Find Out How Do It Yourselfer’s Like You Can Become Great Stair Builders.
20x24 Garage And Loft
Learn How To Build A Variety of Different 2 Car Garages With Lofts.
Home Addition Projects
Do It Yourself Building Ideas for Small Budget One Story or Large Second Story Room Additions
Two Bedroom Home Build
Check Out This Small Home Building Project That A Small Family Like Yours Might Appreciate.
1923 Old Home Framing Project
Let’s Take A House Journey Back In Time To Learn More About Old House Construction.
434 Square Feet Home Building Project
Find Out How You Can Build This Small Cottage Style House or Backyard Granny Flat.
Two Story Open Floor Plan Project
Another Great Home Building Project That Could Provide Exactly What You Need in Your Next Home.
L Shaped Floor Plan Building Project
Check Out Our First Home Building Project To Get More Ideas About New House Construction.
Bathroom Remodeling
Check Out Our Helpful Videos Before Your Next Remodel to Avoid Making Dumb Mistakes.
Building Foundations
Learn How to Design and Build Foundations for A House or A House on The Side of a Hill.
Learn More About Decks
More Educational Deck BuildingTutorials That Save Time And Money.
Easy To Build Green House
This is One of The Easiest Green House or Shed You Can Possibly Build.
Framing Education
Learn More About Wall, Ceiling, Floor And Roof Framing.
Plumbing Repairs
Learn How To Fix Your Own House Plumbing.
Crawlspace Repairs
Watch Our Tutorials if You Need To Replace A Wood Beam or Sagging Floor Joist.
Framing Repairs
We've Got You Covered From Termites To Wood Rot And From Top To Bottom.