Squares
From CoMakingSpace Wiki
| ToolInfoBox Squares | |
|---|---|
| |
| Synonyms: | Sliding bevel
DE: Winkel, Schmiege, Lehren, Konturschablonen |
| Type: | measuring tool |
| Used with: | pencil or marking knife |
| Location: | cart near the measuring shelf |
| Similar (More or Less): | sliding bevel, goniometer |
Squares
Squares are essential layout and checking tools used in woodworking to mark and verify angles, especially 90° (right angles) and 45° angles. They help ensure accuracy in joinery, assembly, and cutting.
Common Types
- Try Square Fixed 90° tool with a blade and stock. Used for marking and checking right angles.
- Combination Square Adjustable head on a ruler. Commonly used for 90° and 45° marking, depth measurements, and layout work.
- Engineer’s Square All-metal precision square for high-accuracy checking.
- Speed / Rafter Square A triangular, multi-purpose square used for quick marking of 90° and 45° angles, as well as for measuring and laying out common angles in framing work.
- Framing Square Large L-shaped square for layout of bigger workpieces and construction tasks
Uses
- Marking 90° and 45° lines
- Checking squareness of edges and joints
- Guiding saw cuts
- Laying out joinery
Sliding Bevel (Bevel Gauge)
A sliding bevel is an adjustable tool used to transfer and mark angles that are not fixed (unlike squares).
- Consists of a handle and a movable blade locked with a screw
- Can copy angles from a workpiece or drawing
- Commonly used for miters, dovetails, and irregular angles
- Does not measure angles directly, but transfers them accurately
Care
- Avoid dropping or bending
- Check accuracy periodically
- Keep clean and dry to prevent rust
