11 Everyday Things That Are 1 Centimeter (CM) Long

It’s easy to underestimate the size of a single centimeter. Yet, understanding how big a centimeter really is can help put measurements into perspective.

When we talk about one centimeter, we’re looking at a length that is equal to about 0.39 inches. To imagine this, think of everyday items that surround you.

These small yet familiar items can make understanding a centimeter’s size simpler and more relatable.

Whether you’re trying to visualize dimensions for schoolwork, crafts, or just satisfying your curiosity, recognizing everyday objects that measure about one centimeter can be surprisingly fun.

How Big Is 1 Centimeter?

One centimeter is part of the metric system and is commonly used worldwide for measuring small objects.

A centimeter is equal to 10 millimeters and is roughly equivalent to the width of a standard pencil tip or the thickness of a notepad.

It’s a measurement that might seem tiny at first, but it’s quite significant when compared with smaller units like millimeters.

When visualized, one centimeter can make the difference between a perfect fit or an awkward squeeze in crafting, designing, or everyday activities.

Let’s take a closer look at everyday items that are about one centimeter long.

Common Objects That Are 1 Centimeter Long

Identifying objects that measure approximately 1 centimeter can make understanding this small length easier.

Here are 11 everyday items that are approximately 1 centimeter long, along with descriptions that illustrate just how small—yet significant—this measurement can be.

📦 Item	📏 Actual Measurement
📌 Head of a Thumbtack	1 centimeter in diameter
📎 Width of a Paperclip	1 centimeter wide
👟 Shoelace Tip (Aglet)	1 centimeter long
✏️ Two Pencil Erasers	1 centimeter side by side
💰 Edge of a 5-Dollar Coin	1 centimeter wide
🧵 Width of a Button	1 centimeter in diameter
📎 Length of a Staple	1 centimeter long
🪮 Tooth of a Comb	1 centimeter apart
🧱 Side of a Lego Brick (1×1)	1 centimeter long
📿 Length of a Bead	1 centimeter long
⌨️ Width of a Key on a Keyboard	1 centimeter wide

1. Head of a Thumbtack

The head of a typical thumbtack is one of the most common examples of an item that measures about 1 centimeter in diameter.

Thumbtacks are essential tools found in offices, schools, and homes. Their round, flat head allows you to press them into bulletin boards or soft surfaces to hold paper and notes securely.

Most thumbtacks have heads that measure close to 1 centimeter across, making them a handy visual guide when estimating or visualizing a centimeter.

Thumbtacks come in various sizes, but the standard variety—those used for pinning memos or reminders—fit this measurement almost perfectly.

The next time you need a mental picture of a centimeter, picture the thumbtack you use to pin up your favorite photo or to-do list.

READ : Everyday Things That Are 2 Centimeters Long (With Visuals)

2. Width of a Paperclip

Paperclips are small yet incredibly useful tools for organizing loose sheets of paper.

A standard paperclip’s width is about 1 centimeter, though it can vary slightly depending on the brand and type.

This small measurement might not seem like much, but it’s crucial for a snug and secure hold.

The thin metal wire that forms the loop of the paperclip is bent into a shape that allows it to clip papers together without tearing them.

The width of the paperclip’s side provides just enough surface area to keep a stack of papers in place.

When you consider how small a centimeter is, picturing a paperclip’s width can make it more tangible.

3. Shoelace Tip (Aglet)

The plastic or metal tip at the end of a shoelace, known as an aglet, is another great example of a 1-centimeter-long object.

This small part plays a big role in making sure your laces are easy to thread through eyelets and don’t fray.

Most aglets are designed to be sturdy yet small, and their length usually hovers around 1 centimeter.

Aglets might seem like simple items, but their length matters when it comes to functionality. Without them, lacing up shoes would be more difficult and time-consuming.

The compact length of an aglet also makes it less likely to get in the way or come loose during movement, which is why the standard 1-centimeter size is so common.

READ MORE : How Big is 4 Centimeters?

4. Two Pencil Erasers

While the eraser on a single pencil is larger, if you were to measure two of the smaller erasers on mechanical pencils side by side, you’d get about 1 centimeter.

These small erasers are essential for making precise corrections, especially for students or artists working on detailed projects.

Mechanical pencil erasers are typically cylindrical and compact, designed for easy removal of pencil marks without smudging.

Each eraser alone is usually around half a centimeter in diameter, so placing two together can help you visualize the 1-centimeter mark.

5. Edge of a 5-Dollar Coin

Coins can vary in size from one country to another, but many small denominations have edges that are close to 1 centimeter thick.

For instance, some versions of a 5-dollar coin or a similarly small currency coin have an edge that measures about 1 centimeter in width.

Coins are designed with specific measurements for ease of handling and differentiation. The 1-centimeter edge of such coins is not just for visual purposes but also aids in ensuring the coins don’t get mixed up with smaller or larger ones.

Holding a coin and looking at its width can provide a tangible sense of what 1 centimeter feels like—an everyday item that many people use without thinking twice.

6. Width of a Button

Buttons are everywhere, from shirts and jackets to bags and home décor. While buttons come in different sizes, a common button—such as one found on a dress shirt—often measures around 1 centimeter in width.

This small size is perfect for functional use, ensuring that the button can easily pass through its corresponding hole while keeping the fabric securely fastened.

Buttons are designed with both aesthetics and practicality in mind, and the 1-centimeter diameter is a common measurement that strikes a balance between being visually appealing and functional.

The next time you button up your shirt, take a moment to appreciate how the width of that small button aligns with this versatile measurement.

SEE MORE: Common Things That are 5 Centimeters Long (With Pictures)

7. Length of a Staple

Standard staples, when viewed individually, might seem tiny, but they are often around 1 centimeter long.

This length allows them to pierce and fold over multiple sheets of paper effectively.

The design of a staple—with its sharp ends and folded legs—ensures that it holds paper tightly without coming loose.

The 1-centimeter length of a staple is optimal for providing enough grip without making it difficult to remove or damaging the paper too much.

Office supplies like these staples are practical examples of how small measurements like 1 centimeter can be essential for everyday tasks.

READ : How Long is 3 Centimeters? 15 Common Comparisons

8. Tooth of a Comb

Combs are used for detangling and styling hair, and their teeth vary in size depending on their purpose.

A standard comb often has teeth that are spaced about 1 centimeter apart. These evenly spaced teeth make it easier to glide through hair, separating strands without pulling or causing damage.

A centimeter-long tooth in a comb helps ensure that hair is detangled effectively, with minimal effort and discomfort.

For those who style their hair daily, this small measurement is part of their grooming routine without even being aware of its significance.

A simple comb showcases just how integral these seemingly tiny measurements are to our lives.

9. Side of a Lego Brick (1×1)

If you’ve ever played with Lego bricks, you know how versatile and creative these small building blocks can be.

The side of a 1×1 Lego brick is typically 1 centimeter long. While small, this size is perfect for intricate building projects, adding detailed touches that larger bricks might not achieve.

The consistent size of Lego pieces makes them perfect for building complex structures and ensures compatibility across different sets.

The 1-centimeter side of a 1×1 Lego brick is an example of precise engineering that blends fun with functionality.

READ : Common Objects That Are 7 Centimeters Long

10. Length of a Bead

Beads come in all shapes and sizes, but many standard beads used for crafts and jewelry-making are around 1 centimeter long.

These beads are ideal for threading onto strings to create necklaces, bracelets, or decorative items. The size of 1 centimeter allows for easy handling and versatility in designs.

Beads that are 1 centimeter in length can be combined with others of different sizes to create complex patterns or stand alone as simple accents.

11. Width of a Key on a Keyboard

Computer and laptop keyboards are designed for both comfort and functionality, with keys that often measure around 1 centimeter in width.

This measurement provides just enough space for typing efficiently without the keys being too large or too small.

A key’s width of 1 centimeter helps ensure that users can type quickly and accurately, reducing the risk of typos while maintaining a compact keyboard size.

The next time you type an email or work on a project, take a moment to consider the 1-centimeter width of each key—a perfect example of how this small measurement plays a big role in our daily tech interactions.