Marking Accessories & Squares
You can Mark your work read to cut and shape with a simple pencil and ruler. But there are better tools and better ways depending on what you are doing.
For instance a marking knife is cleaner and more accurate for finer work and a combination square is far more versatile than a standard square or ruler.
Dont forget that Marking your work is the first step and therefore the jumping off point of whatever it is you are making. The better you start, usually the better your end result.
As for squares. There are some that are vital such as the speed square and a decent combination square. And then there are some that are just nice to have.
As far as pencils go, this is pricey. But if you have ever looked around your workshop for a pencil and realised you have lost them all, then this is perfect. The thick lead is great for larger projects. PS check the H leads below.
All the benefits of the regular pica pencil but now available with a propelling lead. I opted for the H hard lead and now marking up has become a breeze.
You can spend hundreds on a custom marking knife or use a simple Stanley blade. I like this as a starter knife. With one flat edge it makes following the guide really easy.
Fully adjustable and accurate. This is the square I check my squares against. Easy to adjust and tactile. Not inexpensive but will last a lifetime.
The largest square I own. Surprisingly accurate for its price. Really handy for marking larger ply sheets.
Non residue eraser. This high polymer eraser is not only effective for removing marking lines but also doesnt smudge the pencil.
My smallest square. Not only good for smaller marking but for checking square on boxes and across a planed edge. Just dont lose it under your bench.
These come in all sorts of sizes and for box makers they are super handy. Pair them with some small clamps and hold the box square while your glue cures.
In the first 10 tools any woodworker should buy. Versatile for marking, cutting and measuring. Its uses are more numerous to name but you definitely need one.
All UK links are for products that I have used. US links are the closest I can find. They are recommendations made from my experience, yours may differ.
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Small speed squares are great. Large ones are even better. This set has both.
A common issue with the Pica leads is that
for woodworking not construction they are
too soft. Try these instead.
This propelling pencil is the right blend between thick enough lead to not break and soft enough to not scratch. With a robust design
My favourite tape measure for a number of
reasons. Size, feel, easy to read...the list
goes on. Well priced too.