Methods to measure a desk successfully is essential for seamless furnishings placement, house optimization, and even repairs. Whether or not you are arranging a eating room, tackling a espresso desk rearrangement, or just want exact dimensions for a alternative half, understanding the intricacies of desk measurements is paramount. This complete information walks you thru the method, from important instruments to nuanced methods for varied desk sorts.
From easy rectangular tables to intricate, irregularly formed designs, every desk presents distinctive measurement challenges. This information offers a structured method to measuring each kind, guaranteeing accuracy and minimizing potential errors.
Introduction to Measuring Tables
Correct desk measurements are essential for quite a lot of causes, from guaranteeing correct furnishings placement to facilitating repairs and house planning. A exact understanding of desk dimensions permits for environment friendly and efficient options in these areas. Figuring out the precise measurement of a desk helps to forestall pricey errors and ensures a well-organized and purposeful house.Understanding the assorted forms of tables and their frequent dimensions assists in correct measurements.
Correct measurements are additionally important when working with contractors or furnishings firms to make sure the desk meets the shopper’s wants. That is significantly related in eventualities involving customized orders or repairs.
Significance of Correct Desk Measurements
Correct desk measurements are paramount for a number of sensible purposes. Correct placement is essential to keep away from visible muddle or to maximise house. They’re additionally crucial for repairs, as the proper dimensions support within the choice of alternative components or the identification of harm. Moreover, correct measurements are needed for exact house planning, guaranteeing that the desk matches seamlessly into the designated space with out compromising performance or aesthetics.
Varieties of Tables
Varied forms of tables exist, every with distinctive traits and potential measurement wants. Eating tables, for instance, usually are available in a spread of sizes to accommodate totally different numbers of visitors. Espresso tables usually want to enrich the scale and elegance of a front room. Occasional tables, used for supplementary functions, usually are available in quite a lot of sizes and kinds, additional emphasizing the significance of exact measurements.
Challenges in Measuring Tables, Methods to measure a desk
Correct desk measurements might be difficult, significantly for complicated shapes or these with intricate particulars. Typically, tables are usually not uniformly rectangular or sq., resulting in complicated calculations for figuring out the proper measurements. Additional complicating issues, the presence of ornate legs or ornamental parts may pose obstacles for correct measurement. Lastly, the presence of broken or lacking components can result in incomplete measurements.
Key Concerns for Desk Measurements
Side | Concerns |
---|---|
Size | Measure the longest dimension of the desk’s floor. |
Width | Measure the widest dimension of the desk’s floor. |
Peak | Measure from the ground to the tabletop’s floor. |
Form | Word any deviations from an ordinary rectangular or sq. form. |
Legs | Take into account the size and placement of the desk’s legs, in the event that they have an effect on the general measurement. |
Ornaments | Measure the size of any decorative parts that stretch past the desk’s floor. |
Instruments and Tools for Measuring Tables

Correct desk measurement is essential for correct set up, furnishings placement, and total mission success. The correct instruments can considerably affect the precision and effectivity of the method. Selecting the suitable instruments will depend on the sort, measurement, and complexity of the desk.Choosing the proper measuring devices ensures that dimensions are exactly captured, minimizing errors and facilitating correct calculations for varied duties.
That is significantly necessary for complicated desk designs or when coping with a number of measurements.
Important Measuring Instruments
A variety of instruments are needed for efficient desk measurement. Basic instruments like tape measures, rulers, and ranges are important for primary measurements. Extra subtle instruments present higher precision for detailed work. understanding of the capabilities and limitations of every software is vital to making sure accuracy.
- Tape Measures: A regular tape measure is invaluable for linear measurements, permitting for fast and straightforward recording of lengths, widths, and heights. Completely different tape measures cater to totally different wants, starting from short-range measurements to these masking vital distances. As an example, retractable tape measures are perfect for rapidly measuring varied components of a desk, whereas metal tape measures provide extra sturdy and exact measurements for bigger tables.
- Rulers: Rulers, particularly these with metric and imperial markings, present exact measurements for smaller particulars, like desk legs, or to substantiate the accuracy of a tape measure’s studying. Precision rulers are helpful for duties requiring excessive accuracy, akin to detailed woodworking initiatives or measurements in development settings.
- Ranges: Ranges are essential for guaranteeing that the desk is completely horizontal or vertical. A bubble stage, for instance, is used to examine for deviations from a flat floor. That is important for desk stability and correct functioning. For big tables, a spirit stage could be required.
- Measuring Wheels: Measuring wheels are helpful for rapidly measuring bigger areas or desk surfaces. They’re particularly helpful for figuring out the general measurement of a desk or the house round it. They will present a fast evaluation of the obtainable space, guaranteeing the desk matches the designated house.
Choosing Instruments Based mostly on Desk Kind
Completely different desk sorts require totally different measuring approaches. Understanding the desk’s construction and design is important to find out essentially the most appropriate instruments.
- Stable Wooden Tables: For stable wooden tables, a mixture of tape measures, rulers, and ranges are generally employed to measure dimensions, guaranteeing the desk’s structural integrity. Precision rulers and calipers could also be wanted for detailed measurements of the desk’s joints or intricate designs.
- Modular Tables: Modular tables, consisting of a number of parts, require detailed measurements of every part. A mixture of tape measures and rulers, together with exact ranges, is significant for correct meeting. This ensures that the modules match collectively accurately and supply a secure configuration.
- Glass Prime Tables: Glass-top tables require cautious measurement of the glass floor and its assist construction. Measuring wheels can be utilized for total dimensions, whereas rulers are essential for verifying the size of the glass. Precision ranges are important to make sure the glass is completely aligned.
Superior Measuring Instruments
Superior instruments improve the precision of measurements, significantly for complicated or massive tables.
- Digital Calipers: Digital calipers present extremely exact measurements, significantly for small dimensions or intricate particulars. These are important for detailed woodworking or manufacturing purposes, particularly for tables requiring exact tolerances.
- Laser Distance Meters: Laser distance meters are perfect for measuring lengthy distances or hard-to-reach areas. They will rapidly and precisely measure the general dimensions of a big desk, or difficult-to-access areas, considerably enhancing the effectivity of the measurement course of.
- 3D Scanners: 3D scanners seize a complete digital illustration of a desk’s form and dimensions. That is helpful for complicated desk designs or for detailed evaluation of the desk’s type, enabling exact recreations or modifications.
Choosing Instruments for Completely different Desk Sizes and Shapes
The scale and form of the desk affect the choice of measuring instruments. Smaller tables might solely require a tape measure and ruler, whereas bigger or complicated tables might necessitate extra superior instruments.
Desk Dimension/Form | Acceptable Instruments | Rationale |
---|---|---|
Small, easy tables | Tape measure, ruler, stage | Fundamental measurements are ample. |
Massive, complicated tables | Tape measure, laser distance meter, digital calipers, 3D scanner | Precision and pace are important. |
Tables with intricate particulars | Digital calipers, precision rulers, magnifying glass | Correct measurements of small options are required. |
Measuring Completely different Desk Dimensions
Precisely measuring a desk is essential for varied functions, from furnishings meeting to inside design. Correct measurements make sure the desk matches the meant house and capabilities successfully. This part particulars the exact strategies for figuring out size, width, peak, and different dimensions, highlighting the significance of accuracy in every step.Correct measurements are very important for a number of causes. Miscalculations can result in wasted supplies, incorrect meeting, and an unsuitable match for the specified location.
Understanding the significance of precision in every dimension ensures a profitable final result and a desk that meets expectations.
Measuring Desk Size and Width
Figuring out the size and width of a desk entails exact measurements. Measure from the outermost edge of 1 finish to the outermost fringe of the alternative finish, guaranteeing the tape measure is straight and parallel to the desk’s floor. For tables with curved edges, use a versatile measuring tape to hint alongside the curve, marking factors alongside the sting.
Measuring Desk Peak
Measuring the peak of a desk requires cautious consideration to the precise level of reference. Measure from the ground to the highest floor of the desk’s tabletop. The peak must be taken on the heart of the desk, or at a number of factors across the desk to make sure uniformity. Take into account the desk’s legs and their variations in peak.
Measuring Curved or Irregular Desk Surfaces
Tables with curved or irregular surfaces require specialised methods for correct measurement. For curved surfaces, use a versatile measuring tape or a string to hint the curve’s Artikel. Mark the measurements at a number of factors alongside the curve after which calculate the typical. For irregular surfaces, use a number of factors and take the typical of the readings.
Measuring Completely different Desk Legs and Assist Methods
Tables usually characteristic various leg kinds and assist techniques. To measure desk legs, decide the peak of every leg from the ground to the tabletop’s floor. If the legs have a fancy design, measure the size of the assist system utilizing the tape measure, together with the width, depth, and peak of the helps. For instance, if the legs have ornamental particulars or angles, measure every dimension individually.
Measuring Distance Between Desk Legs
Measuring the space between desk legs is important for figuring out the soundness of the desk. Measure the space between corresponding legs (e.g., entrance left to entrance proper). Make sure the measurements are taken on the identical stage on every leg.
Significance of Accuracy in Desk Measurements
Dimension | Significance of Accuracy |
---|---|
Size | Ensures the desk matches the designated house. Errors can result in the desk being too massive or too small for the realm. |
Width | Impacts the desk’s performance and the house it occupies. Inaccuracies can have an effect on its suitability for seating preparations. |
Peak | Essential for consolation and ergonomics. Incorrect peak can result in discomfort throughout use. |
Curved/Irregular Surfaces | Exact measurements are wanted to create correct designs or modifications to suit the desk’s meant use. |
Leg Measurements | Correct leg measurements make sure the desk’s stability and stop wobbling. |
Distance Between Legs | Accuracy on this measurement is crucial to sustaining the desk’s stability and stopping tipping. |
Measuring Desk Peak and Leg Lengths
Precisely measuring desk peak and leg lengths is essential for guaranteeing the desk’s stability, performance, and aesthetic attraction. Correct dimensions assure a snug person expertise and stop potential hazards. This part particulars the significance of exact measurements and offers a step-by-step information.
Significance of Correct Desk Peak Measurement
Exact measurement of desk peak is important for guaranteeing a snug and protected person expertise. Incorrect peak can result in discomfort whereas seated, pressure throughout work or eating, and doubtlessly even accidents. Furthermore, the desk’s peak must be suitable with the meant use and surrounding furnishings.
Step-by-Step Process for Measuring Desk Peak
This process Artikels the steps for precisely measuring the peak of a desk. Consistency is vital to acquiring dependable outcomes.
- Place the desk on a stage floor. This ensures correct measurement of the peak from the ground.
- Choose an appropriate measuring software, akin to a tape measure or a digital caliper. The selection will depend on the specified precision and the scale of the desk.
- Place the measuring software vertically in opposition to the tabletop on the level the place you wish to measure.
- Learn the measurement on the software from the ground to the highest of the tabletop. Document this measurement. The studying ought to correspond to the peak of the desk from the ground.
Significance of Measuring Peak from Ground to Tabletop
Measuring the space from the ground to the tabletop is prime to find out the desk’s total peak. This measurement is crucial for guaranteeing the desk’s performance and compatibility with the person’s peak and the encompassing atmosphere. This measurement ensures the desk offers an ergonomic and comfy expertise.
Methods to Measure Particular person Desk Leg Lengths
Measuring the size of every desk leg is important for guaranteeing even assist and stopping uneven settling or wobbling. Measuring every leg individually helps in verifying the general structural integrity of the desk.
- Find the purpose on the ground the place every leg meets the bottom.
- Prolong the measuring software vertically from the ground to the highest of the desk leg.
- Rigorously report the measurement of every leg. This enables for comparability and identification of any discrepancies.
Significance of Measuring Distance Between Desk Legs for Stability
Measuring the space between desk legs is essential for assessing the desk’s stability. Uneven spacing can result in wobbling or tipping, significantly when the desk is beneath load.
- Measure the space between corresponding pairs of desk legs on reverse sides of the desk.
- Document the measurements for every set of legs. Consistency in these measurements contributes to the desk’s total stability.
Desk Peak Requirements
The next desk offers a spread of frequent desk peak requirements for various use instances. These requirements are tips and should differ relying on particular person preferences and particular wants.
Use Case | Beneficial Peak (inches) |
---|---|
Eating Tables | 28-30 |
Espresso Tables | 18-20 |
Pc Tables | 29-31 |
Work Tables | 30-36 |
Measuring Desk Width and Size
Precisely measuring desk width and size is essential for correct placement, furnishings association, and guaranteeing the desk matches its meant house. Understanding the methods for various desk shapes is important to acquire exact measurements. This part will information you thru the method, specializing in the important thing features of measurement.
Measuring Desk Width
To make sure an correct width measurement, at all times measure throughout the widest a part of the desk. That is crucial for tables with irregular shapes, akin to these with curved edges or extensions. A constant method ensures that the measurement precisely displays the desk’s dimensional capability.
Measuring Desk Size
Figuring out the size of a desk will depend on its form. For rectangular or sq. tables, measuring alongside the longest facet is easy. For irregularly formed tables, deal with the longest dimension. Within the case of a protracted desk with a number of sections or leaves, measure the size of your entire desk when prolonged. That is essential for figuring out the general size of the desk, particularly for seating preparations.
Measuring Completely different Desk Shapes
Completely different desk shapes necessitate particular measurement methods.
- Rectangular Tables: Measure the size alongside the longest facet and the width alongside the perpendicular facet. Use a measuring tape to get the exact dimensions. Make sure the tape is positioned straight alongside the perimeters to forestall inaccuracies.
- Oval Tables: Measure the widest level throughout the oval for the width and the longest level alongside the oval for the size. Use a measuring tape and punctiliously measure throughout the widest factors.
- Spherical Tables: Measure the diameter of the desk by putting the measuring tape throughout the widest level. The size and width are successfully the identical on this case.
Significance of Measuring Throughout the Widest Half
Measuring throughout the widest a part of the desk is crucial for guaranteeing correct dimensions. This prevents underestimation of the desk’s precise measurement, which is important for correct planning and placement. An correct measurement ensures the desk matches the designated house with none points.
Strategies for Measuring Lengthy Tables
For lengthy tables, the method might differ relying on whether or not the desk is fastened or expandable. If the desk has extensions, measure the size with all extensions absolutely deployed. If the desk has fastened sections, measure every part individually after which add the measurements collectively to get the entire size.
Comparability of Measurement Strategies
The measurement strategies for various desk shapes differ considerably.
Desk Form | Width Measurement | Size Measurement |
---|---|---|
Rectangular | Measure perpendicular to size | Measure alongside the longest facet |
Oval | Measure throughout the widest level | Measure alongside the longest level |
Spherical | Measure the diameter throughout the widest level | Measure the diameter throughout the widest level |
Measuring Desk Surfaces and Irregularities
Precisely measuring desk surfaces, particularly these with curves or irregularities, is essential for exact work or to make sure a correct match. This part particulars varied strategies for measuring such surfaces, together with these with complicated shapes and irregular edges. Understanding these methods is significant for furnishings makers, contractors, and anybody needing to doc or recreate desk dimensions.
Measuring Curved or Irregular Desk Surfaces
Figuring out the exact dimensions of curved or irregularly formed desk surfaces requires specialised methods. Direct measurement instruments, akin to rulers, might not present correct readings throughout your entire floor. As a substitute, think about using a number of measurements taken at varied factors, permitting for a extra complete understanding of the floor’s form and total dimensions.
Measuring Irregular Desk Edges
Irregular desk edges current a singular problem. Make use of a mixture of strategies. As an example, use a versatile measuring tape to hint the sting, marking key factors alongside the best way. Digital calipers can present correct measurements at particular factors. For very intricate curves, a mixture of those instruments and a sequence of factors could also be wanted to acquire an entire illustration.
Examples embody tables with scalloped edges, or these that includes customized designs.
Strategies for Measuring Desk Tops with Complicated Shapes
Complicated shapes on tabletops demand extra subtle methods. Using a mixture of instruments and strategies can obtain the specified accuracy. As an example, a digital planimeter can be utilized to calculate the realm of a fancy form, however measurements of the Artikel should be taken and enter into the planimeter. Utilizing a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) is one other superior possibility that gives exact measurements at a number of factors throughout the floor, enabling a radical evaluation of the desk’s geometry.
Measuring Distance from Desk Edge to Heart
Figuring out the space from the sting of the desk to the middle level is necessary for varied purposes. The strategy will depend on the form of the desk. For rectangular tables, merely measure the space from the sting to the middle of the longest facet, or a perpendicular line from the sting to the middle. For irregularly formed tables, use a measuring tape and a mixture of factors, tracing the sting.
This method helps in establishing a reference level for design or development functions.
Desk Measurement Steps for Completely different Shapes
Desk Form | Measurement Steps |
---|---|
Rectangular |
|
Round |
|
Irregular |
|
Recording and Deciphering Measurements

Correct record-keeping is essential for guaranteeing the reliability and repeatability of measurements. This meticulous method permits for the correct documentation and evaluation of information, enabling knowledgeable selections and facilitating future reference. Thorough documentation is important for varied purposes, from easy DIY initiatives to complicated industrial processes.Exact and arranged data of measurements are very important for efficient evaluation and comparability.
This course of ensures that each one measurements are documented persistently and that the info might be readily accessed and interpreted. A transparent and constant recording format is paramount to forestall errors and misinterpretations.
Significance of Correct Document-Holding
Cautious record-keeping prevents errors in future calculations, guaranteeing the integrity of your entire mission or evaluation. Constant recording strategies cut back ambiguity and streamline the interpretation course of. This systematic method promotes accuracy and facilitates efficient problem-solving, whether or not in design, development, or every other discipline involving measurement.
Format for Recording Measurements
A structured format is important for effectively recording measurements. A desk is a typical and efficient solution to set up information, enabling simple comparability and evaluation. The desk ought to clearly determine every dimension being measured and embody columns for the measurement worth, items, and any related notes or observations.
Instance of Measurement Notations
Correct measurement notations are crucial for readability and understanding. For instance, a desk leg size of 750 millimeters must be recorded as “750 mm”. Equally, a desk peak of 72 centimeters could be recorded as “72 cm”. Utilizing standardized items and clear notation ensures there is no such thing as a ambiguity within the recorded measurements.
Desk for Organizing and Recording Measurements
The next desk offers a structured format for recording measurements taken throughout a desk evaluation:
Dimension | Measurement Worth | Models | Notes/Observations |
---|---|---|---|
Desk Peak | 72 | cm | Measured from flooring to tabletop |
Desk Size | 120 | cm | Measured alongside the longest facet |
Desk Width | 80 | cm | Measured alongside the shortest facet |
Leg Size (Entrance Left) | 60 | cm | Measured from flooring to high of leg |
Leg Size (Again Proper) | 60 | cm | Measured from flooring to high of leg |
Prime Floor Irregularity (Entrance Heart) | 2 | mm | Deviation from flat floor |
Deciphering and Analyzing Measurements
Deciphering measurements entails inspecting the recorded information to attract conclusions or make selections. For instance, evaluating the size and width of a desk with its design specs can reveal if the desk conforms to the meant dimensions. Equally, analyzing the peak and leg lengths can assist determine any discrepancies or imbalances within the desk’s construction.Evaluation of measurements additionally permits for the identification of patterns or developments within the information.
As an example, constant irregularities within the desk’s floor would possibly point out a producing defect or structural subject. In essence, interpretation entails extracting significant insights from the uncooked information.
Particular Concerns for Measuring Completely different Desk Sorts: How To Measure A Desk
Correct desk measurements are essential for correct becoming, furnishings placement, and total inside design. Completely different desk sorts have distinctive traits that demand particular measurement procedures to make sure exact outcomes. Understanding these concerns will result in extra correct and dependable measurements.
Eating Tables
Eating tables usually characteristic intricate particulars and varied configurations, together with leaves and extensions. Correct measurements are important to find out the general measurement and potential growth capability of the desk. Take into account the next features when measuring eating tables:
- Leaf mechanisms: Eating tables with leaves require cautious consideration to the leaf mechanism’s performance and extension capabilities. Measure the desk’s measurement each with and with out the leaves deployed, noting the utmost prolonged dimensions.
- Extension configurations: Tables with extension mechanisms might have varied extension strategies. Measure the desk’s dimensions in its retracted state and in its absolutely prolonged configuration. Word the size and width of every extension part.
- Desk base: The bottom of the eating desk, together with the legs and supporting construction, wants cautious consideration. Measure the space between the legs and the general stability of the bottom.
Espresso Tables
Espresso tables, usually smaller than eating tables, usually have a extra assorted vary of kinds and designs. Exact measurements are very important to make sure compatibility with the encompassing furnishings and room structure. Take note of these parts:
- Tabletop measurement and form: Espresso tables differ considerably in measurement and form. Correct measurements of the tabletop’s size, width, and peak are important.
- Base construction: The espresso desk’s base construction might be easy or elaborate. Measure the peak of the desk from the ground to the tabletop’s floor, in addition to the size of the bottom itself.
- Design options: Some espresso tables might incorporate distinctive design parts like drawers, cabinets, or built-in storage. These options might affect the general measurements and must be accounted for.
Different Desk Sorts
This class encompasses a big selection of tables, together with facet tables, console tables, and occasional tables. Every kind might have distinctive design parts that require particular measurement methods.
- Tabletop variations: Completely different desk sorts usually exhibit assorted tabletop shapes, akin to spherical, oval, sq., or rectangular. Measure the related dimensions accordingly.
- Uncommon options: Some tables might have uncommon options like carved legs, intricate carvings, or distinctive bases. These particulars should be accounted for to precisely symbolize the desk’s total measurement and type.
- Particular directions: At all times discuss with the producer’s directions or diagrams for particular measurement tips. The directions will comprise essentially the most correct and up-to-date data for the desk’s measurement and setup.
Tables with A number of Leaves or Extensions
Tables with a number of leaves or extensions require particular concerns to make sure correct measurements. Correctly measuring the prolonged dimensions of such tables is important for exact planning and room association.
- Most growth: Measure the desk’s dimensions in its absolutely prolonged configuration to make sure correct becoming and utilization of house.
- Leaf/extension measurements: Measure the leaf or extension’s dimensions to establish its affect on the general measurement of the desk.
- Weight capability: Make sure the desk’s assist construction can deal with the added weight of the leaves or extensions.
Tables with Uncommon Options or Designs
Tables with distinctive options or designs necessitate cautious consideration to element throughout the measurement course of. Understanding the desk’s particular traits is essential for correct illustration.
- Detailed documentation: Doc any uncommon options or design parts with detailed sketches or pictures to precisely convey the desk’s distinctive attributes.
- Knowledgeable session: Seek the advice of with an knowledgeable or inside designer for tables with significantly intricate designs or uncommon options to make sure correct measurement.
- Various strategies: Make use of different measurement methods like laser scanning or 3D modeling for complicated desk shapes or designs.
Comparability of Measurement Procedures
Completely different desk sorts necessitate distinct measurement procedures. Eating tables with leaves or extensions require measuring the desk’s measurement in each retracted and prolonged configurations. Espresso tables, alternatively, require cautious consideration to tabletop measurement and base construction. Tables with uncommon options might necessitate specialised measurement methods or knowledgeable session.
Abstract of Particular Concerns
Desk Kind | Particular Concerns |
---|---|
Eating Tables | Leaf mechanisms, extension configurations, desk base |
Espresso Tables | Tabletop measurement, base construction, design options |
Different Desk Sorts | Tabletop variations, uncommon options, particular directions |
A number of Leaves/Extensions | Most growth, leaf/extension measurements, weight capability |
Uncommon Options/Designs | Detailed documentation, knowledgeable session, different strategies |
Finish of Dialogue
In conclusion, precisely measuring a desk is a ability honed via cautious consideration, exact instruments, and methodical utility. By understanding the important thing dimensions and using the methods Artikeld right here, you will guarantee your furnishings matches completely and your initiatives proceed with out hiccups. Bear in mind, correct measurements are the cornerstone of a profitable mission, whether or not it is rearranging your front room or enterprise a fancy restore.
FAQ Compilation
What instruments are greatest for measuring a big, oddly-shaped desk?
For big or irregularly formed tables, a mixture of instruments is commonly needed. A measuring wheel is superb for fast size measurements, whereas a versatile tape measure offers accuracy for curves. A ruler or a mixture sq. might be essential for exact particulars. Take into account a laser measure for straight-line measurements and to get essentially the most correct end result.
How do I measure a desk with a number of leaves or extensions?
Measure every leaf and extension individually, noting their dimensions. Then, add these measurements to the bottom desk’s measurements for the entire measurement with all leaves and extensions prolonged. Make sure you measure the house between the leaves to make sure the ultimate desk will match into the house.
What’s the significance of measuring the space between desk legs?
Measuring the space between desk legs is essential for stability. Uneven spacing can result in instability and potential tipping. Correct measurements make sure the desk is balanced and protected to be used.
How do I account for irregularities when measuring a desk?
For irregular desk surfaces, use a number of measurements to account for curves and variations. Measure in a number of locations alongside the curve and common the readings to get essentially the most correct illustration of the form.