82 - The Complete Miter Saw Workstation, страница 32

82 - The Complete Miter Saw Workstation, страница 32

A marking gauge is a great layout tool that uses a cutter to score a fine line that's more precise than a pencil line. It's very basic — a beam that holds a cutter and a fence that locks in place and rides along the edge of a workpiece. The simple design also makes it a great tool to build yourself. And, as you'll see, it won't take a lot of time or materials, either.

The photo at right gives you a good idea of how they go together. I made a pair of marking gauges from a small piece of hardwood and a few pieces of aluminum sheet and rod. And don't worry if the aluminum you buy doesn't look like the photos; the article on

page 36 will show you how to bring out a bright, mirror polish.

Fence Sandwich. I started making the marking gauge with the fence. As the upper right

drawing on the opposite page shows, it's a sandwich consisting of two aluminum faces glued to a hardwood core. I chose a dark,

SMALL

The small marking gauge

fits in an apron pocket.

LARGE

Beveled cutter

leaves a fine score line

A large fence | and longer beam will tackle most tasks.

3/8"-dia. beam

W-dia. beam

32 ShopNotes No. 82