When my two sons were growing up I measured their heights on a tape measure made for that purpose. It was made of paper and about 6" wide. When they'd stopped growing --both hitting 6 feet -- I rolled up the tape measure and added it to the "save it" box stored in the attic. Now that I'm a grandpa I decided to make something to keep track of the height of my grandson. And any future additions to my eldest's son's family and younger son, too.

BUILDING THE RULER VIDEO

Step 1: MATERIALS

Not much in the way of materials was needed. One 8' 1 x 6, two different size stencils, Tung Oil, and paste wax.

Step 2: MEASURED INCHES AND FEET

I started measuring at 6" which would allow the ruler to go flat against a wall and clear the baseboard. I used blue tape on my square to draw different length height marks. Foot marks, inch marks and half inch marks.

Step 3: WOOD BURNING THE LINES

Again, using my square I burnt in each line.

Step 4: FEET AND INCHES

Using the different stencils, I traced the numbers and burnt only the outline of the cardinal numbers for feet. For the inches, I only used pencil to darken them in.

Step 5: THE TOP AND BOTTOM

I cut a decorative curve on top and drilled a hole for hanging. I also cut a 6 inch piece of wood to use to hang it since it starts at 6 inches off the floor. This block can also be used when measuring the height of my grandson.