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Finger (Cloth)

A finger is a traditional, informal unit of length based on the width of a human finger. It was commonly used in tailoring and cloth measurement. The exact length varies but is generally considered to be about ¾ inch (approximately 1.9 centimeters).

The finger measurement helped tailors and fabric merchants make quick estimations of small lengths or widths of material before precise tools were common. It is one of several body-based units used historically in textiles, alongside the span, palm, and hand.

Though rarely used in modern measurement, the finger remains a part of historical measurement systems and illustrates how people relied on their bodies for everyday measuring tasks.

Summary:

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  1 finger ≈ ¾ inch (1.9 cm)

  
  
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  Based on the width of a human finger

  
  
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  Used in tailoring and cloth measurement

  
  
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  Mostly of historical interest today

Span (Cloth)

A span is an old unit of length based on the distance between the tip of the thumb and the tip of the little finger of a fully extended hand. Traditionally, it measures about 9 inches or 22.86 centimeters.

In the context of cloth and textiles, the span was used as a convenient, informal measure to estimate small lengths of fabric before standardized rulers became widespread. It was helpful for tailors and traders to quickly gauge lengths during measuring and cutting.

While the span is largely obsolete as a formal unit today, it reflects historical measurement practices tied closely to the human body, similar to the cubit or hand.

Summary:

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  1 span ≈ 9 inches (22.86 cm)

  
  
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  Based on the hand’s spread

  
  
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  Used historically in cloth measurement and tailoring

  
  
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  Now mostly of historical and cultural interest