Wood Try Square
A tri-square is a simple project that can be made in an afternoon, and requires very little material. While a combination square is probably more useful, a tri-square, can be very handy in certain situations. The ones I use most are a 6″ that lives on my jointer for checking the fence, and a large one that has more reach than my 12″ combination square.
Perhaps the biggest advantage is that shop-made tools are just cool! I know I always take pleasure in using a tool that I made myself.
I taught my students how to make these in a Layout-Tools course. We made these, along with a straightedge, marking gauge, dovetail layout tool, and a saddle square. I discussed the marking gauge in a previous post and video. Let me know in the comments if you’re interested in the other tools.
Download the procedure below (not that you really need it…)
