1. A multi-layer tape rule assembly, comprising: a housing including a reel and a coil spring that provides a rotation bias to the reel; a pliable primary rule including a leading edge, a trailing edge, and two side long edges, wherein the primary rule includes a curved cross section, wherein the trailing edge is coupled to the reel; a hook that is coupled to the leading edge of the primary rule; and a pliable secondary rule including a second leading edge and a second trailing edge, wherein the secondary rule includes a curved cross section, wherein the primary rule is nestled in the secondary rule and the secondary rule is wider than the primary rule and includes two second side long edge portions that wrap around the side long edges of the primary rule to slidably affix the secondary rule to the primary rule; wherein the secondary rule is shorter in length than the first rule, and wherein the secondary rule retracts into the housing when the first rule retracts into the housing.