Try Square
A fixed square for checking 90 degrees.
A try square checks edges, shoulders, and board ends for square. Because it has no moving parts, it is a reliable reference at the bench.
Hand and non-power tools
Layout Tools
Layout tools establish square, angle, straightness, symmetry, and repeatable positions before the first cut is made.
What to Know About Layout Tools
Layout tools include squares, bevel gauges, straightedges, dividers, compasses, winding sticks, templates, and setup blocks. They help align the work to known references rather than measuring every line from scratch.
Working principle
A layout tool registers against a face, edge, or point and projects a line, angle, arc, or comparison. The tool's accuracy depends on clean contact and a stable reference surface.
Major Types
Choose by the reference you need: square, angle, straight, parallel, divided, curved, or repeated.
Combination Square
An adjustable square with a rule and head.
A combination square handles 90-degree and 45-degree layout, depth checks, offsets, and machine setup. It is one of the most useful layout tools in a shop.
Sliding Bevel Gauge
An adjustable tool for transferring angles.
A bevel gauge locks to an existing angle and transfers it to another part or machine. It is useful for splayed legs, miters, chair work, and non-square joinery.
Straightedge
A reference for straightness and flatness.
A straightedge reveals gaps, humps, and hollow areas. It helps set jointers, check edges, and evaluate flattening work.
Winding Sticks
Matched sticks for detecting twist.
Winding sticks exaggerate twist in boards or benches. Sight across them to see whether opposite ends of a surface are in the same plane.
Dividers and Compass
Tools for stepping, spacing, and arcs.
Dividers compare or divide distances without relying on numbers. A compass draws arcs and circles for layout, curves, and decorative work.
Setup Blocks
Known-thickness blocks for repeatable offsets.
Setup blocks help set blade height, fence spacing, router depth, and hardware offsets. They are fast because the block itself becomes the measurement.
Common Woodworking Uses
- Checking square edges and shoulders.
- Transferring angles and curves.
- Finding twist in rough stock.
- Dividing spaces evenly without arithmetic.
- Setting machines and jigs from known references.
Choosing Layout Tools
- Buy accurate fixed references before specialty tools.
- Choose a combination square with a head that locks firmly and a readable blade.
- Use winding sticks when flattening by hand or diagnosing twist.
- Use dividers for proportional layout where exact numbers are less important than even spacing.
Setup
- Check squares against themselves before trusting them.
- Keep reference faces clean and free of chips.
- Mark the face side and face edge so every layout tool registers from the same references.
Accessories and Consumables
- Marking knife
- Pencil
- Story stick
- Bench light
- Setup block set
- Pencil leads
- Blue tape
- Replacement knobs or locks where available
Maintenance
- Protect square blades from bends and dents.
- Keep locking mechanisms clean.
- Store straightedges where they remain straight.
- Wax wooden winding sticks or keep them dry so they stay stable.
Safety
- Keep layout tools clear of cutters before starting machinery.
- Do not use precision tools as pry bars or tapping blocks.
- Avoid reaching around blades to check square; power down first.
- Store sharp dividers and compass points closed or capped.
Manufacturers and Companies
Listed as relevant examples, not endorsements.
StarrettPrecision measuring and layout tools.WoodpeckersPrecision layout tools, squares, and router accessories.INCRAPrecision layout rules, gauges, and shop setup tools.Veritas / Lee ValleyHand tools, sharpening systems, workholding, and layout tools.iGagingDigital measuring tools and setup gauges.