Australian Wood Review – June 2019

78 Australian Wood Review

PROJECT

Four Squaring Tools

You Can Make

Here are some proven jigs and tools that help you

to keep things square. Story by Charles Mak.

1

M

any woodworkers check for square with a try square

or a measuring tape (photo 1). I use them too,

but only when they are the right squaring tools to use.

However squares and measuring tapes used as a squaring

device have some limitations.

While a try square is good for checking small frames or

drawers, it is not reliable for checking squareness of large

areas. When a large piece is assembled, the clamps exert

force to close up the joints that can also, unfortunately,

bend the assembly. A tape measure would be a better

choice to use in large openings, but it has its share of

weaknesses and imprecision.

For example, tape sag can affect the accuracy of the

diagonal readings. And then there are the clamps that get

in the way... Lastly, odd diagonal measurements are hard to

remember and compare, and that’s why, if I do use a tape,

I prefer one that allows me to mark the blade surface with

a pencil (photo 2)

2

1. Pinch rods and diagonal beams complement squares and
   tapes for checking squareness.


2. When measuring diagonals with a tape, the author uses
   one that allows him to mark the blade like a story stick.