How to use an Architect's Scale Ruler

Using a Scale Ruler

• 1

  Determine the scale of your plans. It will be labeled on the plans and should be found in the bottom corner.

• 2

  Turn the ruler to the corresponding scale factor. For instance, if the plans read ¼ inch equals one foot, you will use the ¼ inch scale on the ruler.

• 3

  Measure the desired line starting from zero on the correct scale. In this case, you would need to use the ¼ inch scale.

• 4

  The measurement you calculate equals how many feet the line actually is at full scale dimensions.

• 5

  Try it out several times until you get the hang of it. This will increase your understanding of the scale ruler so you can use it with ease.