What Is This Tool?
This online tool converts length measurements from span (cloth), a traditional unit used for fabric widths, to aln, an old Scandinavian unit for cloth and distance measurement. It helps interpret and reconcile historical units used in textile and architectural contexts.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the length value measured in span (cloth)
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Select 'span (cloth)' as the input unit and 'aln' as the target unit
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Click the convert button to get the equivalent length in aln
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Use the result to assist with historical measurement interpretation
Key Features
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Converts span (cloth) units to aln using established conversion rates
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Useful for historical textile and Scandinavian measurement contexts
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Web-based and easy to use with no installation required
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Supports interpretation of historical trade, architectural, and legal documents
Examples
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5 span (cloth) converts to approximately 1.92 aln
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10 span (cloth) converts to approximately 3.85 aln
Common Use Cases
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Analyzing historical textile trade records involving traditional fabric widths
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Researching Scandinavian architectural and cadastral documents
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Tailoring or crafting with traditional fabric measurements aligned to historical units
Tips & Best Practices
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Confirm the specific regional definition of aln when working with historical records
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Bear in mind the span (cloth) can slightly vary depending on individual hand size
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Use this tool as a guide rather than for high precision measurements
Limitations
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Span (cloth) values are approximate and can differ due to hand size variations
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The aln varied by country and historical period, affecting exact equivalence
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For precise modern needs, metric conversions may be more appropriate
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a span (cloth)?
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A span (cloth) is a traditional length based on the distance between the thumb and little finger of an outstretched hand, frequently used to describe small fabric widths.
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What is an aln unit?
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An aln is a historical Scandinavian unit of length used for measuring cloth and distances, with its exact length varying by region and time period.
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Why convert span (cloth) to aln?
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Converting span (cloth) to aln helps reconcile textile measurements with Scandinavian historical units for accurate interpretation in trade, architecture, or legal contexts.
Key Terminology
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Span (cloth)
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A non-SI unit of length based on the distance from the thumb to little finger of an outstretched hand, often used in textile measurements.
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Aln
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A historical Scandinavian unit of length formerly used for cloth and distances, varying in size by country and period.