"Always keep a tape measure within reach." 

All the time you spend searching for your tape measure is a waste of good knitting time. We like to keep one in every knitting bag (that's a good dozen right there!), by the bed, by the TV, in the armrest of the car . . . you get the idea.

Our little Churchmouse tape measure is 60"/150cm long and retracts with the push of a button. It's not a lifetime tape measure, but it's fairly sturdy and a nice price.