Accurate measurements are essential to ensure that you don't buy too much, or run out before the job is done. Since 1994, most items - with the exception of wood screws - have been sold by metric measure, even though the centimetre is not used in building or allied trades. So always think and measure in metric.There are various types of measures available but a retractable steel measuring tape in its own handy case is a useful tool, which allows you to measure long lengths. The one that measures 8m (26ft) is useful, although you can get longer - and shorter - ones. These measures are very accurate, since the gradations are very fine. For shorter lengths, a folding carpenter's rule made of box, or a metal rule 610mm (24in) long are useful as they also provide a straight edge. In order to ensure accurate right-angles, a try-square with a fixed blade is a valuable addition to any toolbox. A size of 203mm or 228mm (8in or 9in) is useful, or you might want to consider investing in a combination try-square. This enables you to mark out other angles as well as right angles.
A hard-point pencil, well sharpened, is good for marking measurements, but the graphite can leave behind marks, which might show through on wallpaper or paintwork. Avoid 'soft' pencils as these will give you a 'fatter' line and it will be more difficult to make an accurate cut since you'll inevitably wonder which side of the line to make your cut. A slim, marking knife, which marks measurements with greater precision than a pencil, is a much better tool, although it may take a little while to get used to working with one.
See the Useful Information section for metric/imperial conversion charts, advice on buying timber, and for the types and standard sizes of nails and screws. For information on the types of material and tools, as well as the level of difficulty of each job, check the relevant section on this site.
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