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I watch so many folks struggle when it comes to making accurate and uniform measurements and therefore cuts. When it comes to your woodworking projects there are a few simple routines that will make your time in the shop more enjoyable. If you are a novice in the woodworking profession don't worry. You can learn this craft. Yes you will have a lot of trial and error, but that is ok. The best thing you could do is find yourself a guide and take advantage of the years of experience through trial and error.
So you have a set of plans for your next project. All the material is stacked up in the shop or like most people on the garage floor in the way of the wife's car. The next morning you get up and rearing to go. Out comes the trusty tape and you make your first cuts, Darn they don't match. Been there and done that.
Well here is the solution. Kick back, take your time and learn to measure your material accurately the first time. Enjoy yourself and do it right the first time. Here are a few tricks to help you.
* If your measurements are less than 12" get in the habit of using a rigid metal ruler. Put away your tape for now. The metal ruler will lay flat on your work, it doesn't bend or have a riveted end. Makes a world of difference.
* If your measurements are over 12" your tape is fine remembering that two tapes will seldom read the same. Always use the same tape through your complete project. A very good habit to get into is burn an inch when measuring.This takes out the play at the rivets. The more accurate you are the the better. If a friend is helping you make sure the tapes match. Your trying to be as consistent as you can.
* Make sure the end you are measuring from is square. I don't know how many times I will see someone pulling a tape and not checking this. If anything put a new square cut on the board. Wood well very rarely be square on both ends. Take your time and get a good edge.
* What kind of pencil are you using? I suggest you use a mechanical pencil. But you say the lead is breaking all the time. Instead of holding the pencil straight up and down, hold it on an angle. You will get a nice clean mark. Remember be consistent. The mark will be the same over and over again.
* Get in the habit of marking all your cut lines with a square. This gives you a visual reference to your cut line. If you just put a scratch, you are pretty much just eyeballing your cut. We want to be as accurate as we possibly can.
I trust this has helped you to get a sound start on your next project. Now remember to kick back, enjoy and take your time. Woodworking can be enjoyable. Measure twice and cut it once.
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