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A Guide to Layout and Marking Tools
An overview of the marking and layout tools that turn plans into cut lines, what each one does best, and how to build a small, dependable set.
Drills, Hand Tools and Air Tools
Layout and Marking
Accurate marks come before accurate cuts.
Chalk Lines and Straightedges
How to snap a clean chalk line over long distances and how to check a straightedge for flatness so your long reference lines can be trusted.
Checking for Square and Plumb
General methods for verifying right angles and vertical lines, from the flip test and diagonal measurements to the 3-4-5 triangle, levels and plumb bobs.
How to Read a Tape Measure Accurately
Learn to read fractional tape marks, understand the sliding hook, and avoid parallax and other common mistakes so your measurements are consistent.
Marking Knives Versus Pencils
Compare scribed knife lines and pencil lines for precision, speed and visibility, and learn which one suits rough layout, joinery and finish work.
Story Sticks and Repeatable Measurements
See how one marked stick records a project's key dimensions, reduces cumulative measuring errors and lets you transfer the same size again and again.
Transferring Angles with a Bevel Gauge
How a sliding bevel copies an existing angle onto a new workpiece without measuring degrees, plus tips for setting, locking and using it accurately.
Using a Combination Square
A practical guide to the combination square: checking square, measuring depth, marking 45 degree lines, setting heights and keeping the tool accurate.
Using a Speed Square for Angles
How to use a speed square to mark quick square lines, 45 degree cuts and rafter-style angles with the pivot point, degree scale and common rafter scale.
Using Marking Gauges
How to set and use a marking gauge to scribe lines parallel to an edge, including pin, cutter and wheel types, setting the fence and avoiding tear-out.
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