Home improvement projects can often become a journey of “guesstimations,” or as you might have affectionately heard it, being referred to as “girl math.” While this intuitive approach can sometimes land you in a decor dilemma, there are certainly moments when a little approximative creativity is just what the DIY doctor ordered. But in those moments when precision is key and you need to reach for the tape measure, this guide’s got you.

Girl math might sound quirky, but it’s a lighthearted way to describe the art of estimating measurements without using any tools. Whether it’s guessing the width of a wall for a new painting or eyeballing the space needed for a coffee table, girl math relies on intuition and approximate visual assessments rather than strict accuracy. It’s about using your eyes and instincts to measure rather than pulling out a ruler or a measuring tape. This method comes in handy when absolute precision isn’t necessary, and it adds a bit of fun and spontaneity to home projects.

Here are a few situations where your eye is as good as any ruler.

Spacing Out Picture Frames

Eyeballing the spacing between frames on a gallery wall? Totally fine! If they look even to you, they probably are. As long as the overall vibe is cohesive, your guests will unlikely pull out a measuring tape during their visit.

Filling a Bookshelf

When it comes to arranging items on your bookshelves, perfect symmetry can actually look a bit too curated. A little off here, a little over there—girl math lets you play with visual weight and balance without the constraints of exact measurements.

Throw Pillow Placement

Throw pillows don’t need to be arranged using the Pythagorean theorem. A little lean here, a casual toss there, and voila—your couch looks effortlessly chic.

Setting the Dining Table

When setting a dining table for a casual gathering, precise spacing of cutlery and dishware isn’t as crucial. Your estimation can lead to a more relaxed and welcoming table setup, perfect for cozy dinners where the focus is on conversation and enjoyment, not the exact distance between the forks and knives.

Arranging Decorative Accents

Whether it’s vases, figurines, or small planters, arranging these elements by eye can create a more organic and appealing display. This imperfect placement can make spaces feel more lived-in and personal, which is often the goal of a stylish, modern home.

When You Should Measure

As liberating as girl math can be, there are times when accuracy can’t be compromised. Here’s when you should be reaching for that tape measure.

Installing Floating Shelves

That slight wonkiness that adds charm to a gallery wall? Not so much when your floating shelves look like they’re trying to slide off the wall. This is where precision matters. Ensuring your shelves are level and evenly spaced can save you from a decorative disaster—or worse, broken treasures.

Buying Area Rugs

Guessing can get tricky with area rugs. Too big, and they swallow the room; too small, and they look like an afterthought. Measuring the space can help you find a rug that fits just right, grounding your furniture and defining the area without overwhelming it.

Choosing Curtains

When it comes to curtains, length is everything. Too short, and they look like they’re wading through a flood; too long, and they might resemble a tripping hazard. Precise measurements ensure they hang just right, offering a polished look that enhances your room’s aesthetics.

Creating Custom Furniture

Custom furniture requires exact dimensions to fit specific spaces perfectly. Whether it’s a bespoke sofa for your living room or a built-in wardrobe, accurate measurements are crucial to ensure your custom pieces fit the intended space flawlessly and function as intended.

Planning Kitchen Layouts

When redesigning a kitchen, every inch counts, especially in smaller spaces. Accurate measurements are essential for the placement of appliances, cabinets, and islands to ensure optimal workflow and avoid costly mistakes.