Shop Tips
Improving the Pencil as a Marking Tool
Jun 01, 2006
All you need for this tip is a pencil and a stationary belt sander. Begin by sharpening the pencil as usual, then remove one side at an angle on the sander to produce a flat side — maybe 2 in. long — and a very sharp point. The extra step takes only a few seconds. Now you can hold your pencil flat and steady against a square or rule to produce a very close, sharp line.
Drawings by Jim Richey.
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
Suizan Japanese Pull Saw
A versatile saw that can be used for anything from kumiko to dovetails. Mike Pekovich recommends them as a woodworker's first handsaw.
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.
Veritas Precision Square
This precision square is incredibly versatile, from checking squareness to dialing in machine setups.
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