Squares

When I first started woodworking I used ordinary tools from the local lumber yard's shop and Sears, and didn't even know there was anything better. But as I got into finer work with better woods, I was disappointed by the inaccuracy of these tools and started looking for better quality. Over the years, I slowly upgraded my tools, and have been quite happy with how they have made it easier to get good results. I also simply appreciate holding and using them.

Combination squares. I use and really appreciate Starrett combination squares. I use the 12″ for regular work, the 6″ for finer work, and the 4″ for my lamps. I prefer the cast iron heads with the black wrinkle finish to the forged hardened steel with black enamel finish, but both are beautiful precision tools.

Carpenter's squares. I use a pair of very accurate Shinwa stainless steel squares from Japan for gluing up precise right angles and marking wide cuts. (The wood I was using in this photo was so straight and true that I only needed to use one square to glue it up.)

Bevel squares. I also use a pair of Shinwa stainless steel bevel squares, and they, too, are beautifully made and accurate, especially when used with an angle finder like the Sutherland Tool Bevel Boss or the MasterGage Universal Angle Guide.

Slightly out of kilter?. I suppose we all have our areas where we're a little batty. One of my own is squares: I simply love them and have a variety of them, including carpenter, combination, dovetail, machinist's, angle, triangle, try, and bevel squares. Perhaps the most interesting small square I have is the Woodjoy Total Square, which incorporates into its beautiful geometry the ability to gauge an amazing range of measurements: 1/16″, 1/8″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 3/4″, 1″, 2″, 3″, 4″, and 5″. Woodjoy Tools.

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