How to level without a level?

When doing projects around the house, having a level tool on hand is extremely useful for ensuring things are properly aligned and straight. However, levels can be expensive and it’s not always practical to have one available. Thankfully, there are some simple tricks to help “level” things without an actual level tool. In this article, we’ll explore some creative ways to level shelves, paintings, furniture and more using common household items.

Use a Clear Container of Water

One of the easiest ways to create an improvised level is by using a clear glass, vase or other water container. Simply fill it close to the brim with water. The surface of the still water will naturally level itself, thanks to gravity. Place the container on the surface you want to level. Adjust the surface until it is parallel with the surface of the water. This may take some small adjustments, but using a container of water is a time-tested way to level things without a professional tool.

Pros	Cons
Water is readily available in most homes Clear glass or vase is easy to see through Surface of water always finds a level plane Can be reused multiple times	Container could spill and make a mess Not precise like an actual level tool Water level susceptible to vibration Difficult to use on vertical surfaces

Utilize a Laser Level

While not as readily available as a glass of water, laser levels can be purchased relatively inexpensively. They project a laser beam that can be positioned to create an instant level line across a surface. Many models also have a split beam that projects a crossed line for indicating level in two directions at once. Place the laser level on a tripod or attach it to a wall. Turn it on and adjust the surface to align with the laser cross beam. Laser levels are extremely accurate and make leveling tasks much easier.

Pros	Cons
Very precise level measurements Produces bright line for easy leveling Can be used at many angles Great for leveling over large areas	Must be purchased separately Requires batteries or charging Laser could be dangerous if shone into eyes Difficult to use outdoors in sunlight

Try a Spirit Level Phone App

There are a variety of smartphone apps that utilize the built-in accelerometer of your phone to simulate a spirit level. While not as accurate as a true construction level, these apps provide a free, easy way to get a general sense of level. Look for apps with digital level displays and calibration to adjust accuracy. To use, simply place your phone on the surface in question, open the app and adjust until the digital readings indicate level. This won’t work for precision tasks, but can be very handy in a pinch.

Pros	Cons
Free app downloads Uses smartphone you already own Provides general level measurements Easy to transport	Not as precise as real levels Calibration affects accuracy Small smartphone screen Drains phone battery

Use a Magnetic Torpedo Level

Magnetic torpedo levels are compact, torpedo-shaped levels that have a magnetic strip on one side. This allows them to attach to metal surfaces like pipes, beams, appliances, etc. They can act as a small, basic level when placed on any metal object. While not a replacement for a larger, professional level, they provide a great portable option for basic leveling tasks. They can also attach to non-metal surfaces by taping them down. Consider keeping one in your toolbox for quick access without needing to find a full-size level.

Pros	Cons
Inexpensive basic level Magnet attaches to metal Small size is easily portable Simple to use	Not useful for large surfaces Difficult to secure to non-metals Less accurate than larger levels Only levels in one direction

Use a Carpenter’s Square

Carpenter square rulers are shaped in a perfect “L” 90 degree angle. This makes them great as a straight edge and for checking right angles. While not quite as precise as a level, they can be placed against surfaces as an improvised straight edge. Adjust the item so the edge lines up flush and you have an accurately straight vertical or horizontal orientation. Carpenter squares are inexpensive and easy to use one-handed. They provide a versatile simple option for basic DIY projects.

Pros	Cons
Creates straight edge guide Checks surfaces for 90 degree angles Easy to transport and store Durable and long-lasting	Not a replacement for precision levels Only can reference right angles Difficult to use on uneven surfaces Made of metal so can scratch surfaces

Use a Plumb Bob

A plumb bob is a weighted metal point suspended from a string. When held up, gravity pulls the string so the point aligns precisely vertical to the ground. To use a plumb bob to check or establish a vertical level, simply dangle the string and note where the point lines up against your surface. Adjust the surface so the point sits at the same position top to bottom. While not useful for horizontal leveling, plumb bobs excel at providing an accurate vertical level reference. Suspending one from an overhead position can allow leveling large vertical surfaces.

Pros	Cons
Accurately finds vertical reference Can be used at various heights Establishes plumb vertical line Simple to make from household items	Only levels vertically Have to accommodate swinging motion Not useful for smaller tasks String may not hang straight

Use a Bubble Vial

A bubble vial is a small glass tube with a slight curve filled with a liquid and an air bubble. When placed completely horizontally, the bubble floats centered between two lines indicating level. These are tiny, inexpensive devices that provide a simple visual level reference. To use a bubble vial, place it on your surface and slowly adjust until the bubble sits evenly between the lines. You can also tape a vial to an object like a picture frame to act as an attached temporary level. Just be sure to calibrate and check accuracy first.

Pros	Cons
Simple visualization of level Small and highly portable Inexpensive and easy to obtain Can attach to objects	Only reads level in one plane Not useful for large surfaces Prone to inaccuracy if not calibrated Glass vials are fragile

Other Improvised Level Techniques

In addition to the methods above, there are a few other common household items that can provide basic level references:

• A book – Place upright, adjust surface to close flat
• Doorway – Vertical sides and top provide level guide
• Countertops – Assume kitchen counters installed level
• Drawn lines – Mark surface, use straightedge to extend level lines
• Level phone app – Not precise but good in a pinch

With some creativity and common sense, you can “eyeball” the level of many items and surfaces in your home without a measuring tool. But for any mission critical projects, it’s wise to use a real level designed for accuracy.

Conclusion

While a real spirit or digital level is the best way to precisely determine level, there are many useful alternatives you can try at home. Simple things like water, squares, plumb bobs or lasers allow you to get the job done without investing in new tools. Just remember that the improvised options may not provide the same degree of accuracy. But they can get you close in many circumstances. We encourage you to try these clever ways to level without a level so you can keep your projects on track even without a professional grade instrument. Let us know if you have any other handy tips for determining level with household objects!