It seems like every project requires marking lines a set distance from the edge of the workpiece. I normally use a combination square with my pencil held against it, but since I’m between big projects and you can only play so much golf I decided to make one. I have a traditional marking gauge with the small circular cutting head for times where that’s appropriate such as dovetail work, but I wanted one that held a pencil.
I have been wanting to try brass inlays, and this project was the perfect opportunity. All brass components came from Amazon. I think that between me, my wife, and Ziggy the cat we have personally financed one of Jeff Bezos’ yachts. Of course my contributions paid for the propeller and they paid for everything else…it’s a toss up which one of them has more stuff.
I started with a solid piece of walnut, band sawed into 3 pieces, drilled out the holes on the top for the hardware, and reassembled with the correct spacing to make the square hole. The inlays were pretty straightforward, the biggest challenge was keeping things flat when sanding since wood is softer than brass. The drum sander was a big help, as was the occasional sip of Jameson. The 6” ruler was inset so the measurements are dead on. It’s a nice addition to the shop. Thanks for looking.
Nice build 'dog... that ruler looks like a very useful addition, often/always missing from most bought ones ('cept the 'peckrs). Like the pencil addition, unless you're 1adoze that can never find one in the workshop.... and don't try to tell me it is bolted in as you're guaranteed to unbolt the next time you can't find one and the next time you use the gauge... no pencil!
Do you have a non marer (maybe an Aussie 5 cent) piece under that knurled knob to stop marking that shaft? 10¢ probably too big for yours.
If your first cut is too short... Take the second cut from the longer end... LBD
Thanks everyone. Duckster, I did something similar to prevent the thumb screw from marring the shaft. Instead of a coin I looked around my shop and found some of those small self adhesive plastic cabinet bumpers. I stuck one to a small washer, drilled a hole inside before the 3 pieces were reassembled to house it and provide clearance, and Bob’s your uncle.
Love the finished piece, but really like the idea of those silicone bumpers. Don't need a death grip on the shaft so having the compliance in the bumper means you can make it tight but still have some give for small adjustments.
Beautiful work, I bet the brass against that walnut really pops!
Beautiful combination of form and function. I love all the visual elements: the brass accents, the rounded beam nose, and the gentle curve on top of the body.
Good idea. When you don’t need the wood scored a pencil works great. I liked how you put the cabinet bumper and the washer in it. That was a nice touch.
I’m unsure how you made the square opening. Wish you showed some photos of your process.
