Online RulerMeasure flat items on a tablet
Lay the tablet flat, calibrate AR Ruler in the orientation you plan to use, and line up the item with the scale. The screen works well as a surface for flat pieces such as paper labels or fabric scraps when their edges fit inside the visible ruler.
- AR Ruler's web scale uses centimeters or fractional inches.
- If the item fits only farther along the scale, read both ends and subtract the smaller reading from the larger.
- The card calibration stays on the device. Check the scale again after browser zoom or display changes.
- Set the tablet on a table so it rests evenly. Rotate it if that gives you more room along the scale.
- Open the ruler's card guide. Set the guide to match the edge it shows. A nominal ISO ID-1 card is 85.60 mm wide and 53.98 mm high.
- Place the item next to the ruler marks. Align the side you want to measure with the direction of the scale.
- Line up the first edge with zero and move the marker to the opposite edge while looking straight down.
- For the other side of a rectangular piece, turn the item and line it up again. If you turn the tablet instead, check the card guide before reading.
Keep the material flat
Smooth a paper label or fabric scrap before lining up its near edge with zero. A curl can lift the end and make it hard to tell which mark lies beneath it. With fabric, let the material rest in its usual shape. Pulling it taut can change the length you read. Hold it lightly in a spot that leaves both the item edge and the scale visible.
Make room beside the scale
Use the full browser window if a split view leaves too little room for the item. Set that layout before you check the card guide. Place an opaque piece just beside the ticks so it does not cover the far reading. If a case lip or an awkward corner keeps the piece from lining up with zero, read both ends and subtract the smaller reading from the larger.
Measure the width you need
For a strip that varies in width, decide which spot matters and put that spot beside the ticks. If you want to know whether the strip fits through an opening, measure its widest part. If you need the width at a fold, line up the fold with the scale. Write down the unit with the reading so you can use it when cutting or comparing pieces.
Can I measure both sides without rotating the tablet?
Yes. Turn the piece so its other side runs along the ruler. Line up the new starting edge with zero.
What if the tablet rocks when I touch it?
Fold the cover out of the way or set the tablet on a stable surface. Check the item's position once the screen is steady.
What if my piece is too long?
Use a physical ruler or tape that reaches both ends. That lets you take the full reading while the piece lies flat.