For a professional woodworker, a 16-foot tape measure is just great. 2. laser measure. the laser measure has fast become one of the most used woodworking measuring tools by professionals including architects, designers, and contractors. it is also great for woodworkers to measure any distance up to 50 feet.. It is likely that a tape measure would be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about a measuring tool for woodworking. they generally come in lengths ranging from 10 ft to 25 ft (3 – 8 m) which make them great for quick measurements of short and longer distances between two point. however, by no means should your tape measure be your primary measuring tool when marking in smaller units or where precise measurements are required..