DIY Network

Getting the Measurements Right: Measuring & Marking - Calipers, Micrometers, Tapes From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-312

Figure A

David reveals several tools to help get those all-important measurements right.

• A sliding square (figure A) works like a combination square, but it has a broad surface that aligns with the edge of the board to prevent it from rocking back and forth; this ensures a straight line. The sliding square has two scales so you can mark out an intersection.
  

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• Dial calipers (figure B) help you make certain that a mortise and tenon will fit together properly. Use the small protruding piece to check the inside of the mortise. The two pincers measure the tenon. Note: the measurements will calculate in hundreds of an inch.

• These calipers (figure C) are similar to dial calipers, but are intended for larger work pieces.

  Figure B

  Figure C

  
  
• A 3-in-1 marking gauge (figure D) has three cutters to make small marks that let you know where a mortise needs to be cut. It comes with attachments for use in a variety of applications.

• A micrometer (figure E) is useful when working with metal. It's used to measure the thickness of a piece of metal. This is useful when you want to do a metal inlay. This tool measures within .00001 of an inch.

  Figure D

  Figure E

  
  

  Figure F

• These tools (figure F) are used to set the depths of bits and blades. The tool on the bottom left is used to set the depth of a router blade with accuracy. The yellow trim gauge and the bridge tool are both used to properly set the height of a table saw.

RESOURCES :

Marking Gauge, Sliding Square, Calipers & Micrometers
Lee Valley
Email: customerservice@leevalley.com
Phone Order: 800-871-8158
Phone for Customer Service: 800-267-8735
Lee Valley Tools Ltd.
P.O. Box 1780
Ogdensburg, NY 13669-6780
Website: www.leevalley.com

Johnson Level & Tool
6333 W. Donges Bay Rd.
Mequon, WI 53092-4456
Phone: 262-242-1161
Fax: 262-242-0189
Email: jlt@johnsonlevel.com
Website: www.johnsonlevel.com

Trim Gauge
Brumley Tool, Inc.
8220 Dartmouth
Warren, MI 48093
Phone: 866-278-8665
Fax: 586-758-3868
Email: info@trimgauge.com
Website: www.trimgauge.com

Hitachi Router
Phone: 800-829-4752
Email: hitachi.us.com