I became enamored with yardsticks back when my kids were little and learning to draw straight lines. 
It started off with rulers, and at the time I could only find flimsy plastic ones at the store. I found our first wooden ruler in a thrift shop and continued to buy extras each time I happened to run across one; which eventually led to buying yardsticks as well.
The yardsticks caught my eye because of the vintage colors and cool advertisements.
Back in the day, yard sticks were often used as promotional give-aways because they were long enough to contain an address, phone number and a catchy slogan. Besides being a useful tool around the house, yardsticks advertised businesses and endorsed political candidates.
These trivial wooden measuring tools are fascinating pieces of Americana. You can still find them at Antique malls in the ballpark of $10 – $45, depending on the advertisement, condition and size. I’m thrilled to find mine at flea markets, thrift shops, yard sales and estate sales, usually for under $3. 
I enjoy showing off my yardsticks collection as some collectors would group old walking sticks or umbrellas; on the floor and ready to use at a moment’s notice.
When they’re bunched together they are just as lovely as a bouquet of flowers (but even better because they won’t die). Keep them out of direct sunlight and the color and advertisements will always be vibrant and eye-catching!
