Woodjoy is a relative newcomer to the world of fine hand tools. The company makes a small but growing line of spokeshaves as well as beading, measuring, and marking tools.

The Total Square is one of my favorites. This little square with a 4-in. blade is the perfect size to keep in your shop apron. But it does a lot more than most squares. The Total Square is built with various parts at specific dimensions, all unmarked. Once you memorize them, the square becomes an effective measuring device. For example, the blade is 1/16 in. thick and 1 in. wide the handle is 1/2 in. thick, 3/4 in. wide, and where it meets the blade, it has a 1/16-in. by 1/8-in. notch. Several other dimensions are built into the square, and half the fun is locating them and figuring out how they might be used.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Tite-Mark Marking Gauge

These gauges can be easily and precisely adjusted with one hand, which allows you to set the tool while holding a ruler or workpiece in the other. The quality is exceptional, and all have sharp cutters that offer great visibility.

Buy at Lie-Nielsen Toolworks

Marking knife: Hock Double-Bevel Violin Knife, 3/4 in.

This heavy, double-beveled knife stays on track in all directions, and works just fine without adding a handle.

Buy at Lee Valley

Veritas Micro-Adjust Wheel Marking Gauge

The adjuster runs through the beam from a small knob at the back end right to the cutting wheel, which moves in and out as you turn the knob. This arrangement works well but makes adjustments a two-handed operation, requiring a little more effort.

Buy at Lee Valley