How to Use a Bevel Gauge to Check Matching Timber Angles
A bevel gauge, also called a sliding bevel, transfers an angle from one timber piece to another. It does not […]
Equipment
How to Transfer a Compound Angle to a Timber Workpiece by Hand
What you are transferring A compound angle has two slopes: one across the face of a board and another along
How to Measure a Tenon Cheek Accurately with a Combination Square
A tenon cheek is the side surface between the tenon’s shoulder and its end. Its length determines how far the
How to Mark a Centered Dowel Position with Dividers
Marking the center of a dowel accurately is a small job with a large effect on the joint. If the
Equipment
Marking Gauge vs Cutting Gauge for Scribing a Timber Shoulder
A timber shoulder is the vertical face at the end of a tenon, housed rail or other joint. Its line
How to Set a Marking Gauge for a Consistent Timber Lap Joint
A consistent timber lap joint depends on one dimension above all others: the depth of the lap. If that line
Best Carpenter’s Pencils for Marking Narrow Timber Edges
Marking a narrow timber edge is harder than it sounds. A standard carpenter’s pencil can be too wide for a
Equipment
Measuring from a Face Side vs a Reference Edge in Joinery Layout
In joinery layout, “measure from the face” and “measure from the edge” are not interchangeable instructions. They describe two different
How to Use a Steel Rule to Mark a Short Rebate Width
Marking a short rebate (also called a rabbet) is simple, but small errors show up quickly when the rebate is
Equipment
Best Try Squares for Checking Small Timber Joinery
A try square is one of the simplest tools in a joinery kit, but small errors show up quickly in