Printable Ruler: Actual Size Inches, cm
This printable ruler makes an actual-size ruler you can print on US letter paper when you need to measure something and there is no ruler around. Choose inches with marks every 1/16, 1/8 or 1/4 inch, centimeters with millimeter marks, or both on one strip, in 6, 8 or 12 inch lengths (or 15, 20 or 25 cm). The page includes a 1-inch and a 1-cm check square so you can confirm the printer kept the scale. Print at 100% or "Actual size" with scaling turned off. You can also download the ruler as an SVG file.
Printable Ruler
Print a true-to-scale ruler in inches (1/16) or centimeters (mm) on letter paper.
How to use the Printable Ruler
- Choose inches, centimeters or both, and the length.
- Pick the smallest marks, such as 1/16 inch.
- Press Print and set scale to 100% or Actual size.
- Measure the check square to confirm it is exactly 1 inch.
Scale check
1 inch = 2.54 cm. The ruler is drawn in real inch and centimeter units, so it is exact when printed at 100%. Measure the 1-inch square to confirm.
Features
- True-scale inches and centimeters
- 1/16, 1/8 or 1/4 inch marks
- Millimeter marks
- Calibration squares
- Download SVG
- Fits US letter paper
Frequently asked questions
How do I print a ruler at actual size?
In the print dialog set scale to 100% or Actual size and turn off Fit to page. Then measure the check square: it should be exactly 1 inch.
Why is my printed ruler slightly off?
Fit-to-page or a printer margin setting shrank it. Reprint with 100% scale. If it is still off, measure with a known object such as a dollar bill, which is 6.14 inches long.
Can I print a 12-inch ruler on letter paper?
Letter paper is 11 inches long, so the 12-inch ruler prints in two pieces that you tape together at the 6-inch mark.
How accurate is a paper ruler?
When printed at 100% it is usually within about 1/32 inch. It is fine for quick measurements but not for precision work.
Can I measure in centimeters?
Yes. Choose centimeters for a metric ruler with millimeter marks, or both to get inches on one edge and centimeters on the other.