Abstract: A tape measure and a holster system and method, where the holster is made from a generally rectangular strip of durable material formed into a loop on an upper end for attachment to a user's belt, and formed into a pocket on a lower end to receive the clip member of a tape measure. The loop may include a hook and loop attachment means, a button, snap, or other temporary attachment means instead of the permanent stitching, so that the user may open and close the loop at his or her convenience. This optional feature allows a user to attach the loop to a belt without having to unbuckle or unfasten the belt as it is being worn. At the lower end, the strip is folded into a pocket for receiving the tape measure clip, and the pocket portion is stitched along the edges of the folded strip in a longitudinal direction. Preferably, the lip of the pocket is folded inwardly one time, to increase the rigidity of the pocket lip and to prevent fraying.