When snapping lines for roofing shingles, you can save time chalking by connecting the chalk lines from two chalk boxes together so the person on each end has a chalk box. After snapping a few lines, the spent line is reeled in, and since the strings are connected, the fresh chalk line unreels from the other chalk box over to the person reeling it in, and the line chalking process continues without having to walk back and forth across the roof.
Now that's a great idea. I will start my 36th year in the carpenters local on Jan 1st and I've never heard of such a thing, but I've could have used that trick many of times. Here in the South we refer to the end of the string with the clip, as the "Alabama End". And Never Ever snap a Red or Black line on a wall that going to be painted. The line will bleed through paint. Don't ask how I know this but the painter wasn't vary happy with me for a long time.
I have my first and only chalk box. I was saying it was 35 years old but doing the math it is 45 years old. Damn time flies. Just finishing up my seventh decade.
Anthony Miller yes, 7 decades ago I started following my step father around carrying a chunk of chalk that he taught me how to chalk the line. No chalk dispensers until I graduated high school.
I just started working on a framing crew this year and your channel is my secret weapon. Thank you boss. Just know some chubby guy in TN is benefiting from your videos. They’re helping me make a good living.
Fellow chubby guy from Wisconsin here in his first year of framing. Framing has really helped me shed a few unwanted lbs. I hope your career is going well
Nope. If you ever do construction you will find that perfection doesn’t exist in reality. You strive for perfection and settle for being a flawed human. That mentality is orated by this man constantly. I love his videos, because he is real and he has a command of the English language.
Tips from a tile guy- w/ new chalk boxes, pull string completely out and lightly dust chamber w/ chalk as you feel in. When spanning line across a hump, many times said hump will throw the line off; when line is taut- pull string up as if to snap it, but carefully set it back down to verify its position on your mark. If it's on your mark, snap it! Lastly, the metal tips at times get lost in the ether, so a good replacement is a soda tab with the tip bent 90°. Epstein didn't kill himself
When I was a hand building Carwashes, our centerline of the wash tunnel was measured meticulously, snapped then coated with a clear spray. Everything depended on having that line being perfect and permanent. When I re-visited one of the sites we built, the centerline was still there even after thousands of washes.
My dad passed away when I was 13. I missed out on alot of this stuff as I never really had a stable father figure in my life after. I come to your channel all the time even as a 40 year old man and learn all the things I wish my father could have taught me. But I take what I have learned from your channel and share it with my son as soon as I have the opportunity. Thank you so much for sharing all your knowledge it is really appreciated in my home.
Just changed the brakes on my MILs car with my 15 year old sons. It was a great job and the boys learned a ton. While teaching the boys I reminisced about turning wrenches with my old man. We lost him 3 years back, but sitting down for lunch with a new ESS Craftsman video is like taking a break with Dad... Thanks for the perfect video on the perfect day. Happy Holidays and keep up the good work.
PRICELESS memories Man ! At 52 I wish that I paid more attention to my Dad when he was around ... Sorry to ramble ... Happy New year to you and your family !
I've done sales in the construction industry over 25 years. Ever once in a while you are lucky enough to stumble upon a carpenter. It's always a treat when I do, and my ears are ready.
I worked four summers in the 1980's, rough framing. And today I learned the difference between the colors! We always used red. I still have the same chalk box today! I use it often enough. Even when building furniture! But I think I'll switch to blue! I've learned to remove the mark by cutting down the center of the line, or to chalk in places that I'll hide. But blue will make things simpler! Thanks!
Great info. I'm about to start building a deck (waiting for the permit to be approved). I've never built anything like this in my life, so there's a lot I don't know _yet_ . I bought a chalk line, and came to TH-cam looking for advice on how to use it, and this was the video I found. It's perfect for what I'm doing! We'll see if this Software Engineer can build a nice deck. I learned about blueprints, how to use CAD, local building codes and permit requirements, and details like framing layout, footings, ledger board requirements, stringer layout, etc that I needed to draw the construction plans.
My granddad taught me to pull a brand new chalkline out all the way, THEN add some chalk and reel it in. This way, the whole length of string coats itself nicely and you don't have to worry about it binding up!
With most of the new ones, that will ruin it. Ask me how I know... Been in construction 26 years now and I have probably owned 100 chalk boxes, and my favorite are the old ones like he shows here. They might be slower but far less trouble.
@@SuperUncleRyan No, that won't ruin it. I've loaded all of our chalk lines like that, and never has an issue. How do you think that will ruin it? Obviously if you pull all the line out, fill it all the way with chalk, it will choke. But certainly not ruin it. You pull out the line as a bit of chalk, reel in about 10 feet, check to see if you need more chalk, reel it in 10 feet, check, reel, check...
Yep, stretch it out at least 30ft or so and fill it.....just put a lil bit at a time.....a good chalk box is the chalk you use and type of line.....they're disposable, they don't last but are cheap
Very nice tips. These are the sort of lessons that you don't typically get when on the job. Those who use and know about the tools take it for granted that everyone knows what they do. Passing these lessons down really helps teach those that don't already know.
I would have never imagined chalk lines required a video of their own! I’m only here because I figured one day this information will come in handy. Thank you!!! And thank you to all handymen labor workers, it is because of you guys that I am able to do what I do without breaking my back. Thank you all
You’re so humble that even as a journeyman finish carpenter I still clicked on the video being labeled noobs. Turns out.. your were indeed being honest. Great video anyways. Thanks so much! You’re an American treasure.
Great vid! A few extra pointers for the keen: if the accuracy of the line is important, pull the line quite tight and only pull it a little bit upwards to snap. When you're snapping, always pull directly upwards if at all possible, that way the line won't oscillate back and forth sideways. Upwards, in this case, just means "directly away from the workpiece". If you're snapping a wall, then pull exactly sideways, that is, at 90degrees to the work surface. Also, if you're snapping a long line, that oscillation can be inevitable. The way to beat it is to "center-snap", as I've heard it called. Hook or hold the hook end of the chalk where it needs to be, walk the box end where it needs to be, tighten up the line, and then, before snapping, have someone hold the line down tight to the workpiece at roughly the center of the line. Have that person snap one side of center, then the other side, just as tho it was two lines. This helps keep the line very accurate.
Keith Klassen good call, also you can use different parts of the chalk line if you don't have time to wind it in every time , just snap then pull more out , then wind it all up at the end , or if nogging joists just move the line towards you 2 inches to get a fresh piece of line ,
Another tip - if you're snapping a line over an existing rough surface, especially a longer run, and have a 3rd guy handy, stretch the line and have him put a finger on the line about halfway down the run. Snap each segment twice to get a good distinct line. We do this quite often pouring concrete flatwork, popping mag lines on existing concrete walls with minor irregularities.
Out here in San Diego CA, we use pink chalk actually for everything and where it is needed to be permanent we use clear spray or clear coat, that pink line usually comes off with the rub of a glove if needed
ive seen an old man use baby powder in his chalk box, thought he was crazy until i seen him wipe it off with ease. He was building some cabinets in an old house that had fresh paint on the walls. He said he uses it inside on most lines where the walls are painted or the surface needs protection.
I just use my cocaine so when I do chalk the wrong line I can correct it with ease, by snorting that full run. My apprentice thou seems to get the shakes now and then and doesn't seem to wanna move on. 10yrs and he's still with me. That's loyalty.. 😏
Thank you for making these videos. I'm 28 and I have a young family that I need to put a roof over. I have decided to build our first home starting this summer and I know this will be one of, if not the largest endeavor I will take on in my life. Watching your videos has helped me so much and gave me the confidence to start this adventure. I am also excited to post videos of the project as the home is built.
Thank you for the video. I learned something new. I'm the guy that fills up the new box every time (and that is why the box jams, every time-not anymore though). My pops taught me the box could be used as a plumb bob (that is why it has the pointy back end). The unspoken protocols with the coworker comment was great.
I still have the Craftsman chaulkbox my grandmother bought me when I was a freshman in HS, starting out in votech. Still use it, and remember my teacher (Mr. Beretta) saying the same things you just did to us in class on how to use them. Man the basic are the basic and never change. Thanks for the great reminder for use older folks and teaching the younger ones. BTW my 10 year old son loves your videos and wants to be a framer 😁 keep the treads a live 👍
I keep using the stuff I learn on here. This is so timely as I need to snap some lines next week for the porch I am re-constructing. Thank you sir! Happy New year!
Neat trick I picked up a while ago: when doing layout, hit your chalk lines with a can of clearcoat urethane; prevents them from getting rubbed off easily. I use it on my tools after initialing them too; does the same.
I'm soo glad this guy has over a million subs and is getting the views he deserves. I stumbled upon this channel years ago and I always come back when I'm looking for something in construction. And I believe he's an Oregonian as well so it's good to see a neighbor giving back and helping people. Thank you for teaching me so much about your trade. I truly appreciate it
I used Irwin 1to1 when I first started in construction. Now I exclusively use Tajima chalk boxes, the plastic one because is cheaper, just love them. And the gear mechanism does not deteriorate that easily.
Keith Klassen Tajima is 4X the cost it certainly isn’t 4 times better because it has 4 gears when Milwaukee has 3. Tim Uhler from tools of the trade and JLC went through a lot of them in the Seattle rain before recommending the Milwaukee.
Such a simple thing. Most folks would make this boring as hell but you make it worth watching. It is called.... enthusiasm! It clearly shows what I am afraid the majority of our youth has lost. Pride in their work! Thank you for this set of tips.
In Sweden we often build on concrete foundations and when we mark out the walls we spray the lines with a spray that sort of solidifies the line so no matter the colour it is permanent.
one of the best tools anyone can have as a carpenters you cant live without one, loving the video series on the house watches these after my own days graft :) regards from south west scotland
Thank you for sharing the knowledge. Recently learned how useful a chalk line is, and it is now a essential part of my kit. So many things I built crooked would have been so much nicer had I learned to use one long ago.
To save time marking a line over a very long distance, I have used a dry line stretched tightly and walked beside it quickly spraying it with paint. If the line is laying tightly against the surface, and a color is used that contrasts with the surface color, this method will produce a nice straight highly visible waterproof line.
ive tried that , n its too inefficient , with way to many variables. the concept is strong, an helps in certain scenarios, but its far from ideal, chalk or a lazer is the only go to imo
I couldn’t agree more. Very good info and spot on! I own several chalk boxes and have been asked quite often “why do you need so many”. Simple answer, I need them all. You’d be surprised, well, maybe not you, but in general how many people don’t realize you need more than one color. Much less that the colors have different fade resistance and some are more appropriate than others for the task at hand. Thanks for the videos, you guys keep up the great work!
I can tell you've been around. Love your videos, and I have no doubts that you've made impressions and others have learned tons from your walk in life. Thank you
Sir you have not idea how much I like / enjoy your videos ! Thanks for the effort you make on making videos to share your knowledge . Thank you for taking the time on explain with detail all parts and I mean alll the parts that involve the trade the job our lives. Thank you
More of these videos please. Not everyone who watches is a pro and knows the most basic stuff. I sure got complements using your string line tricks while building my fence. Love it!
When I got mine about six months ago. I did exactly what you said not to do and it bound up exactly like you said it would. I had to take it apart and uncoil the entire thing. It's still never worked correctly.
Back in the day when I was in the carpenters union, I worked with some old school guys that loaded their chalk boxes with fishing line. Makes a beautiful fine line but can only be snapped once. It was the thing to do when you needed be very precise.
BigKen NJ S.O.B ! That’s it! The information I was looking for! Yesterday I was making an access pannel for under a porch and I needed to cut the pannel 56” long. I was thinking of buying a typical Irwin chaulk line but I knew the string wouldn’t give an accurate line. Fine braid fishing line will do the trick! I do residential home repairs where accurate cuts are necessary. I wish I could go back and talk to those old school union carpenters for more tips
@@Berzerk29 Yeah, it was the idea I was looking for, and I didn’t know it. NOBODY in TH-cam videos or in the comments used fishing line. ( the 20# black braided stuff, not monofilament). In 95 * weather last week, I was trying to measure off the one 90* corner, and layout this access pannel for under a porch. It kicked my butt, but got it done. That afternoon, when I returned my excess lumber, I promptly bought a Keson PRECISION .99 mm chaulk Line reel. Spent $19 for the precision 1 mm line, ( interior carpentery) instead of the $10 one for laying out concrete forms I loaded it up with removable blue chaulk. There was only one model with a 1 mm string. Everything else was fat. That’s why I never bothered to use one my whole life . It works like a champ. I’m adding it to my tools nobody uses anymore: Nail puller/ nipper, adjustable combination square, adjustable scribe, brass plumb bob and string, wood rasp. I may buy another chaulk reel and put in some old black fishing line, if I need something even more precise. Thanks a million ! Yours was the only comment that I read like this
@@JohnDoe-jc3cl that's great to hear. I love new tools and new tool technology like laser levels and laser plumb bobs. But my old school brass plumb bob will never never need calibration or batteries.
@@Berzerk29 Back year later, I used the fine diameter chaulk line to lay out some red cedar shingles (10’x 8’ area), on an addition to a house. A 20’ foot run. Because I lined it up, I got more work from the customer . It all looks uniform. I always use my fine diameter chaulk line. No turning back to fuzzy cotton lines. Thanks for the tip. Now I come out looking like a hero 👍
I recently learned about this different levels of chalk and I want to call out one thing that is a little dangerous: Not ALL colors mean the same thing. For example, you can get blue chalk which is permanent, staining chalk in addition to the 'standard'. Other scenarios exist depending on the brand. So, read the bottle! :)
Just bought a new chalk box and screwed up by filling just as you said. Had to dump out and get it moving again, and it made a mess. Wish I had watched this first. You would be a great teacher, and that would help the overworked body. I was a mechanic for 20 years and then taught mechanics for 30 yrs. It is really fulfillng.
Something not mentioned in the video... When you go to tighten your line into place pull the string not the box or it will bind up the leftover string on the reel.
The one thing I've learned from this channel is that I'll never be a craftsman. I enjoy learning what can be learned from a video but I'm not working in the trades so I'll never gain the experience and the skill set that comes with hours of actually doing it.
We in new Zealand and Australia call the lose end the "dumb end". Other thing I would ass is that it's bloody important to say "are you ready" or "have you got your end" before flicking. Repeatedly. Nothing worse than having it flicked when you aren't ready or if it's in the wrong place
Nigel Fairweather we call it the “stupid end” on my crew. I agree with the “are you ready” and I would add that you never drop someone else’s string into a puddle! Always let them wind it back in while you hold it up, just common courtesy
I could have used this video about 6 months ago when I snapped a few lines in my basement before I knew the difference between red and blue. Sometimes learning the hard way really leaves a lasting impression haha.
Thanks for the info on chalk boxes. I have been using them for years and still learned something. Stepping into the Way-Back machine, remember when we just used string and had a chunk of blue chalk it our tool bag? Your would pull the string across the chunk of chalk as you walked out and then uses it as you would use a chalk box now. The chunks I remember were domed shaped, round at the base.
When I did construction we always carried 2 colors. Blue and ______. I usually carried red. The reason is we would start with blue. If the layout got messed up we could go over it in red and keep things straight. Nothing like trying to go fast and finding out you and your buddy are on 2 different blue lines and nothing matches up.
Good on your Scotty bloody good video I’m on holiday at the moment in Bendigo Victoria and I found two anvils at the Bendigo Central Deborah gold mine I took photos of them but I don’t have an email to send them to you if you want to send me your email you never know you might end up with them they would be from the 1850s...... They look like they’re forged anvils one has had a fair bit of work on the on side it’s pretty good on the offside the other one looks really good almost new........ Happy New Year and God bless you mate
I appreciate you and I always promote your channel every chance I get since I found it a week ago. God bless you and your family sir! My grandfather always let out the whole spool, then filled his box about a quarter of the way. Then spooled the line while shaking the box. I don't know if it's better but that's the way I do it.
The lyric is "trot" line, a form of passive fishing. You may have known this and were just making a pun, but a ton of people watch these videos who have no idea how hunter-gatherers feed their families.
Being very honest I have never done this myself. But at one time I worked with a very old and gnarly framerand he used only black concrete dye in his chalk boxes. The lines never went away regardless of the rain snow or ice on the slab or plywood. But I swear he had to buy a new box three weeks because the concrete dye was so hard on the mechanism. His philosophy was chalk boxes are cheaper than having to re-snap lines which was expensive, double work, and highly inefficient.
I use a chalk box every day, blue, black, red, green. I couldn't imagine using one of those Irwins ever again! These days I only use tajima but a Milwaukee box is good as long as you treat it right.
Andrew Doogee My Tajima line got weak and started snapping with the slightest pull after about a year. Not a bad run though, and it was indeed a _very_ nice line: the line was thin, making it less susceptible to wind and more precise, light in weight, and had high elasticity, which I thought was nice, and it rewound beautifully. I got a replacement a few months ago, but lost it and am now using a backup Milwaukee; not a bad line either (the best local one here) but not quite a Tajima.
I'm not a noob, but I always learn something from your videos, and I share the info with my co-workers/subs. Your videos not only make my life at work easier, but make me more valuable to the contractor I sub for. I can't thank you enough, but if you ever find yourself in Post Falls, Idaho, my lady and I would be honored to have you over for my "world famous" home made spaghetti.
Nice to see your old chalk lines , I have one that I bought 40 years ago on my first week I worked I had to make a new handle for it thats all, Happy new year to you Scott and your family
Little things make the difference. I loved your explanation. I am about to start in construction and before walking in, I’m learning the little details that will save my day. Thanks for this content...
Gotta call you out on this one. You make one of the most common mistakes made by "Noobs" with a chalk line. You pluck the string WAY too hard! The string accelerates away leaving a lot of the chalk behind as a cloud in the air instead of putting it on your substrate. The lightest pluck necessary is best. You can do more lines without re-rolling. More accurate too.
It came with a small piece of foam for the neck to help avoid this I assume and it doesn't seem to help. My next step was to get a higher density foam to try the same. Perhaps it's just the line is still fluffy and carrying too much chalk...
@@bjcombs1989 The plastic case are ok... mine have never leaked. I should have specified that I am talking about the metal case Tajima's. The CR 200's series.
What showmanship. Dismantle the entire house just to give an A+ presentation on chalk lines. Bravo
LOL This gave me a good chuckle.
Lmao too funny😂🤣
👍🏼😂😂
@Dave Ridlespriger 2 Hell yeah!
It is impressive.
When snapping lines for roofing shingles, you can save time chalking by connecting the chalk lines from two chalk boxes together so the person on each end has a chalk box. After snapping a few lines, the spent line is reeled in, and since the strings are connected, the fresh chalk line unreels from the other chalk box over to the person reeling it in, and the line chalking process continues without having to walk back and forth across the roof.
Now that's a great idea. I will start my 36th year in the carpenters local on Jan 1st and I've never heard of such a thing, but I've could have used that trick many of times. Here in the South we refer to the end of the string with the clip, as the "Alabama End". And Never Ever snap a Red or Black line on a wall that going to be painted. The line will bleed through paint. Don't ask how I know this but the painter wasn't vary happy with me for a long time.
Do you tie them together with a specific knot that can be untied easily or is there a way to connect the clips together?
Rob Stephens We've done that a few times! I always wonder if other people do those oddball things that we sometimes think of.
@@ringerson4x4 A large fishing lure clip works great run through the holes in the chalk line end clips.
@@ringerson4x4 You usually can slip one end through the other end's nail hole sideways and then pull them tight and gravity does the rest.
Still have my dad's chalk boxes. I remember him using them when I was just a little boy...I am 63 now. Treasured pieces now
I have both my grand dad's and my father's chalk boxes. Never broke a line in either of them and use them quite regularly.
I have my first and only chalk box. I was saying it was 35 years old but doing the math it is 45 years old. Damn time flies. Just finishing up my seventh decade.
Anthony Miller yes, 7 decades ago I started following my step father around carrying a chunk of chalk that he taught me how to chalk the line. No chalk dispensers until I graduated high school.
Big D's TH-cam what kind of work have you done?
I marvel at stories like this. My tools get stolen so often that I don't think I even still have a tool from just five years ago.
I just started working on a framing crew this year and your channel is my secret weapon. Thank you boss. Just know some chubby guy in TN is benefiting from your videos. They’re helping me make a good living.
Fellow chubby guy from Wisconsin here in his first year of framing. Framing has really helped me shed a few unwanted lbs. I hope your career is going well
This guy is great, he takes the most simple tools and gives a thoroughly in depth explanation. I bet his finished projects are close to perfection.
The projects never get finished, because he gives 15 minute explanation to every worker, on how to use a chalk line.
@@lukek8032 😂😂
Agreed
He's great 💜
Nope. If you ever do construction you will find that perfection doesn’t exist in reality. You strive for perfection and settle for being a flawed human. That mentality is orated by this man constantly. I love his videos, because he is real and he has a command of the English language.
I love you old man.
You have so much knowledge, and speak very well.
Reminds me of my own grandpa who’s no longer around
Happy new year pops
Tips from a tile guy- w/ new chalk boxes, pull string completely out and lightly dust chamber w/ chalk as you feel in.
When spanning line across a hump, many times said hump will throw the line off; when line is taut- pull string up as if to snap it, but carefully set it back down to verify its position on your mark. If it's on your mark, snap it!
Lastly, the metal tips at times get lost in the ether, so a good replacement is a soda tab with the tip bent 90°.
Epstein didn't kill himself
Right on, Brother! And that chalk line stuff sounds legit too! :)
I truly admire your tone of voice and ease of delivery. You’re a well-spoken and knowledgeable man whom I aspire to gain much from.
When I was a hand building Carwashes, our centerline of the wash tunnel was measured meticulously, snapped then coated with a clear spray. Everything depended on having that line being perfect and permanent. When I re-visited one of the sites we built, the centerline was still there even after thousands of washes.
Jacob Atkinson what color did you use?
@@rtz549 Either red, orange or black
hairspray makes a chalk stick for a long time.
Jacob Atkinson * millions
Plumber, we do that a lot. Especially when laying out ceiling marks for pipe hangers.
My dad passed away when I was 13. I missed out on alot of this stuff as I never really had a stable father figure in my life after.
I come to your channel all the time even as a 40 year old man and learn all the things I wish my father could have taught me. But I take what I have learned from your channel and share it with my son as soon as I have the opportunity.
Thank you so much for sharing all your knowledge it is really appreciated in my home.
Just changed the brakes on my MILs car with my 15 year old sons. It was a great job and the boys learned a ton. While teaching the boys I reminisced about turning wrenches with my old man. We lost him 3 years back, but sitting down for lunch with a new ESS Craftsman video is like taking a break with Dad... Thanks for the perfect video on the perfect day. Happy Holidays and keep up the good work.
PRICELESS memories Man ! At 52 I wish that I paid more attention to my Dad when he was around ... Sorry to ramble ... Happy New year to you and your family !
funny how the good days slip by without us noticing it .
I've done sales in the construction industry over 25 years. Ever once in a while you are lucky enough to stumble upon a carpenter. It's always a treat when I do, and my ears are ready.
I worked four summers in the 1980's, rough framing. And today I learned the difference between the colors! We always used red. I still have the same chalk box today! I use it often enough. Even when building furniture! But I think I'll switch to blue! I've learned to remove the mark by cutting down the center of the line, or to chalk in places that I'll hide. But blue will make things simpler! Thanks!
Great info. I'm about to start building a deck (waiting for the permit to be approved). I've never built anything like this in my life, so there's a lot I don't know _yet_ . I bought a chalk line, and came to TH-cam looking for advice on how to use it, and this was the video I found. It's perfect for what I'm doing! We'll see if this Software Engineer can build a nice deck. I learned about blueprints, how to use CAD, local building codes and permit requirements, and details like framing layout, footings, ledger board requirements, stringer layout, etc that I needed to draw the construction plans.
My granddad taught me to pull a brand new chalkline out all the way, THEN add some chalk and reel it in.
This way, the whole length of string coats itself nicely and you don't have to worry about it binding up!
With most of the new ones, that will ruin it. Ask me how I know... Been in construction 26 years now and I have probably owned 100 chalk boxes, and my favorite are the old ones like he shows here. They might be slower but far less trouble.
That's what I always do still need to be careful not to fill it to much
@@SuperUncleRyan No, that won't ruin it. I've loaded all of our chalk lines like that, and never has an issue. How do you think that will ruin it? Obviously if you pull all the line out, fill it all the way with chalk, it will choke. But certainly not ruin it. You pull out the line as a bit of chalk, reel in about 10 feet, check to see if you need more chalk, reel it in 10 feet, check, reel, check...
Yep, stretch it out at least 30ft or so and fill it.....just put a lil bit at a time.....a good chalk box is the chalk you use and type of line.....they're disposable, they don't last but are cheap
Excellent tip, will try when I get a new Tajima, which is really the only chalk box to buy
Very nice tips. These are the sort of lessons that you don't typically get when on the job. Those who use and know about the tools take it for granted that everyone knows what they do. Passing these lessons down really helps teach those that don't already know.
"Most of the time it's just work." True wisdom for so many things in life.
I would have never imagined chalk lines required a video of their own!
I’m only here because I figured one day this information will come in handy.
Thank you!!! And thank you to all handymen labor workers, it is because of you guys that I am able to do what I do without breaking my back. Thank you all
You’re so humble that even as a journeyman finish carpenter I still clicked on the video being labeled noobs. Turns out.. your were indeed being honest. Great video anyways. Thanks so much! You’re an American treasure.
I've never snapped a chalk line ever but that sign off of, "keep up the good work" has me motivated. Great intro to chalk lines and tutorial video.
Great vid! A few extra pointers for the keen: if the accuracy of the line is important, pull the line quite tight and only pull it a little bit upwards to snap. When you're snapping, always pull directly upwards if at all possible, that way the line won't oscillate back and forth sideways. Upwards, in this case, just means "directly away from the workpiece". If you're snapping a wall, then pull exactly sideways, that is, at 90degrees to the work surface.
Also, if you're snapping a long line, that oscillation can be inevitable. The way to beat it is to "center-snap", as I've heard it called. Hook or hold the hook end of the chalk where it needs to be, walk the box end where it needs to be, tighten up the line, and then, before snapping, have someone hold the line down tight to the workpiece at roughly the center of the line. Have that person snap one side of center, then the other side, just as tho it was two lines. This helps keep the line very accurate.
Keith Klassen good call, also you can use different parts of the chalk line if you don't have time to wind it in every time , just snap then pull more out , then wind it all up at the end , or if nogging joists just move the line towards you 2 inches to get a fresh piece of line ,
This man knows what's up.
Every video I've watched. Well spoken with intelligent description.
Thank you.
Another tip - if you're snapping a line over an existing rough surface, especially a longer run, and have a 3rd guy handy, stretch the line and have him put a finger on the line about halfway down the run. Snap each segment twice to get a good distinct line. We do this quite often pouring concrete flatwork, popping mag lines on existing concrete walls with minor irregularities.
This is wholesome content. Very informative. A great, hands on demonstration.
Out here in San Diego CA, we use pink chalk actually for everything and where it is needed to be permanent we use clear spray or clear coat, that pink line usually comes off with the rub of a glove if needed
That figures for California- Pink!
You are a very informative gentleman, cheers for all your teaching.
I installed some stair handrails for a friend inside their house. I used a chalk line with baby powder in it. It wiped right off when finished.
Yeah right.
Hope it wasn't the baby powder that contained asbestos.
ive seen an old man use baby powder in his chalk box, thought he was crazy until i seen him wipe it off with ease. He was building some cabinets in an old house that had fresh paint on the walls. He said he uses it inside on most lines where the walls are painted or the surface needs protection.
I just use my cocaine so when I do chalk the wrong line I can correct it with ease, by snorting that full run.
My apprentice thou seems to get the shakes now and then and doesn't seem to wanna move on. 10yrs and he's still with me. That's loyalty.. 😏
samoan SAIYAN I’ll buy the first 8 ball,you get the next one.
Thank you for making these videos. I'm 28 and I have a young family that I need to put a roof over. I have decided to build our first home starting this summer and I know this will be one of, if not the largest endeavor I will take on in my life. Watching your videos has helped me so much and gave me the confidence to start this adventure. I am also excited to post videos of the project as the home is built.
How did house come out?
Hopefully things went well!!
I just bought my first chalk line and was looking for a tutorial. This was fantastic! Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experience! 💕
Thank you for the video. I learned something new. I'm the guy that fills up the new box every time (and that is why the box jams, every time-not anymore though). My pops taught me the box could be used as a plumb bob (that is why it has the pointy back end). The unspoken protocols with the coworker comment was great.
I still have the Craftsman chaulkbox my grandmother bought me when I was a freshman in HS, starting out in votech. Still use it, and remember my teacher (Mr. Beretta) saying the same things you just did to us in class on how to use them. Man the basic are the basic and never change. Thanks for the great reminder for use older folks and teaching the younger ones. BTW my 10 year old son loves your videos and wants to be a framer 😁 keep the treads a live 👍
essential videos equals another knowledge filled lesson equals an essential craftsman. thanks for sharing another.
I keep using the stuff I learn on here. This is so timely as I need to snap some lines next week for the porch I am re-constructing. Thank you sir! Happy New year!
This video is an outstanding example of why I support EC on patreon. So many great tips, hints and ideas. Especially for beginners like myself.
Neat trick I picked up a while ago: when doing layout, hit your chalk lines with a can of clearcoat urethane; prevents them from getting rubbed off easily. I use it on my tools after initialing them too; does the same.
I'm soo glad this guy has over a million subs and is getting the views he deserves. I stumbled upon this channel years ago and I always come back when I'm looking for something in construction. And I believe he's an Oregonian as well so it's good to see a neighbor giving back and helping people. Thank you for teaching me so much about your trade. I truly appreciate it
I used Irwin 1to1 when I first started in construction. Now I exclusively use Tajima chalk boxes, the plastic one because is cheaper, just love them. And the gear mechanism does not deteriorate that easily.
Yeee those r nice ima get one nex5
The Milwaukee is almost as good and costs $9.
@@milanroets9697 "Almost" is a funny word. There's a lot of room in "almost".
Keith Klassen Tajima is 4X the cost it certainly isn’t 4 times better because it has 4 gears when Milwaukee has 3. Tim Uhler from tools of the trade and JLC went through a lot of them in the Seattle rain before recommending the Milwaukee.
The Irwin Metal chalk box is the best!!!!
You can always throw it at the apprentice if he’s being lazy or won’t listen to what you’re teaching him
This is the second video I have watched after subscribing. Great information and presentation.
Chalk this one up as another useful video, Scott! Thank you!
(I'll see myself out)
Ok I will join the line and go with you. Ok I will shut the door behind me.
Y’all need to snap out of it.. I’m leaving now
@@86theberry - Box is empty. I got nuthin' after you guys!
🥁-tish
I love your videos so much. Youre never too old to relearn basics
Legend has it he's on his lunch break.
Such a simple thing. Most folks would make this boring as hell but you make it worth watching. It is called.... enthusiasm! It clearly shows what I am afraid the majority of our youth has lost. Pride in their work! Thank you for this set of tips.
In Sweden we often build on concrete foundations and when we mark out the walls we spray the lines with a spray that sort of solidifies the line so no matter the colour it is permanent.
Here in Arizona we use leveled rebar stakes as guides
one of the best tools anyone can have as a carpenters you cant live without one, loving the video series on the house watches these after my own days graft :) regards from south west scotland
Thank you for sharing the knowledge. Recently learned how useful a chalk line is, and it is now a essential part of my kit. So many things I built crooked would have been so much nicer had I learned to use one long ago.
brother we are bless that you have the patience and understanding to share your knowledge. God bless you and your family.
To save time marking a line over a very long distance, I have used a dry line stretched tightly and walked beside it quickly spraying it with paint. If the line is laying tightly against the surface, and a color is used that contrasts with the surface color, this method will produce a nice straight highly visible waterproof line.
ive tried that , n its too inefficient , with way to many variables. the concept is strong, an helps in certain scenarios, but its far from ideal, chalk or a lazer is the only go to imo
I couldn’t agree more. Very good info and spot on! I own several chalk boxes and have been asked quite often “why do you need so many”. Simple answer, I need them all. You’d be surprised, well, maybe not you, but in general how many people don’t realize you need more than one color. Much less that the colors have different fade resistance and some are more appropriate than others for the task at hand. Thanks for the videos, you guys keep up the great work!
As soon as I was aware of them, I switched to Hi-Vis Hot Pink mason's twine and chalk line. By far, the most visible, even in poor light.
I can tell you've been around. Love your videos, and I have no doubts that you've made impressions and others have learned tons from your walk in life. Thank you
I am no noob, bit i learned something from your channel yet again! (Tickle a fresh chalk line before snapping)
Clicking the vid proves you're not a noob ;-) You knew you had more to learn, thumbs up !
Sir you have not idea how much I like / enjoy your videos ! Thanks for the effort you make on making videos to share your knowledge . Thank you for taking the time on explain with detail all parts and I mean alll the parts that involve the trade the job our lives. Thank you
Can we just take a moment to appreciate that when pressed for a name, he came up with "Mrs. Mecklehenny"?
I thought he was going to say Mrs Jones or Smith
Great video from start to finish. Plus that last tidbit about using a dry line in cooperation with a chalk box was absolute gold. Thank you sir.
Someone needs to send this man a Tajima chalk box!
SixToMidnight what model?
Haha I was gonna say that
@@timothyschwartz2028 Everytime someone uses mine at work they're amazed! Best chalk box in the world!
Your videos are outstanding. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
When I was an apprentice we didn't have powdered chalk lines we used chunks of soft chalk and pulled the line through it.
No offense intended but you have many years on you! :)
In one of Mr. Chickadee's youtube video's, I believe he used something similar. I stick of chalk or charcoal on his string line.
I've got one like that. A blue chalk ball and a line on a spool.
I participated in that once. As an exercise not out of necessity.
I remember!
More of these videos please. Not everyone who watches is a pro and knows the most basic stuff. I sure got complements using your string line tricks while building my fence. Love it!
When I got mine about six months ago. I did exactly what you said not to do and it bound up exactly like you said it would. I had to take it apart and uncoil the entire thing. It's still never worked correctly.
JA B yeah I did that as soon as I brought my first one I stuffed as much in as I could ... didn't work for a while
JA B yeah I did that as soon as I brought my first one I stuffed as much in as I could ... didn't work for a while
I've used chaulk lines a lot, and your video has taught me so much. Thank you!
Back in the day when I was in the carpenters union, I worked with some old school guys that loaded their chalk boxes with fishing line. Makes a beautiful fine line but can only be snapped once. It was the thing to do when you needed be very precise.
BigKen NJ
S.O.B ! That’s it! The information I was looking for!
Yesterday I was making an access pannel for under a porch and I needed to cut the pannel 56” long. I was thinking of buying a typical Irwin chaulk line but I knew the string wouldn’t give an accurate line. Fine braid fishing line will do the trick!
I do residential home repairs where accurate cuts are necessary.
I wish I could go back and talk to those old school union carpenters for more tips
@@JohnDoe-jc3cl I'm glad this comment was what you were looking for. Let me know, after you spool your new chalk line, how it works out for you. 👍👍
@@Berzerk29
Yeah, it was the idea I was looking for, and I didn’t know it. NOBODY in TH-cam videos or in the comments used fishing line. ( the 20# black braided stuff, not monofilament).
In 95 * weather last week, I was trying to measure off the one 90* corner, and layout this access pannel for under a porch. It kicked my butt, but got it done.
That afternoon, when I returned my excess lumber, I promptly bought a Keson PRECISION .99 mm chaulk Line reel. Spent $19 for the precision 1 mm line, ( interior carpentery) instead of the $10 one for laying out concrete forms
I loaded it up with removable blue chaulk.
There was only one model with a 1 mm string. Everything else was fat. That’s why I never bothered to use one my whole life .
It works like a champ.
I’m adding it to my tools nobody uses anymore: Nail puller/ nipper, adjustable combination square, adjustable scribe, brass plumb bob and string, wood rasp.
I may buy another chaulk reel and put in some old black fishing line, if I need something even more precise.
Thanks a million ! Yours was the only comment that I read like this
@@JohnDoe-jc3cl that's great to hear. I love new tools and new tool technology like laser levels and laser plumb bobs. But my old school brass plumb bob will never never need calibration or batteries.
@@Berzerk29
Back year later, I used the fine diameter chaulk line to lay out some red cedar shingles (10’x 8’ area), on an addition to a house. A 20’ foot run.
Because I lined it up, I got more work from the customer .
It all looks uniform.
I always use my fine diameter chaulk line. No turning back to fuzzy cotton lines. Thanks for the tip.
Now I come out looking like a hero
👍
I have to say, this is about the best video on this subject matter. Thank you and well done!
I recently learned about this different levels of chalk and I want to call out one thing that is a little dangerous: Not ALL colors mean the same thing. For example, you can get blue chalk which is permanent, staining chalk in addition to the 'standard'. Other scenarios exist depending on the brand. So, read the bottle! :)
@@Bobo-ox7fj Do you recall the brand? I could use that.
That's what he talked about.. "indelible chalk"
Just bought a new chalk box and screwed up by filling just as you said. Had to dump out and get it moving again, and it made a mess. Wish I had watched this first. You would be a great teacher, and that would help the overworked body. I was a mechanic for 20 years and then taught mechanics for 30 yrs. It is really fulfillng.
Something not mentioned in the video... When you go to tighten your line into place pull the string not the box or it will bind up the leftover string on the reel.
Yes, wrap the string around your carpenters pencil.
Thank you, Terrence! Never have that a thought.
And when you're winding, keep a little tension on the line, same reason. Not a lot of tension, just a little.
Keith Klassen thank you , Keith!
I finally finished catching up with all your videos today. Keep up the good work!
The one thing I've learned from this channel is that I'll never be a craftsman. I enjoy learning what can be learned from a video but I'm not working in the trades so I'll never gain the experience and the skill set that comes with hours of actually doing it.
Hate to tell you this Scott... turn around - someone stole the house you built!! :D
Hahaha, I was thinking the same thing!
The stairs were wrong so he tore up the whole house and started over
Ahahaha to funny😂🤣
And not a soul on site. Bet this was done on a Sunday with the idea of being a holiday filler. I'll take it.
😂😂😂👍🏼
great videos building my shed now with some confidence, after learning so much from you, saving myself a fortune, thank you.
We in new Zealand and Australia call the lose end the "dumb end".
Other thing I would ass is that it's bloody important to say "are you ready" or "have you got your end" before flicking. Repeatedly. Nothing worse than having it flicked when you aren't ready or if it's in the wrong place
Nigel Fairweather we call it the “stupid end” on my crew. I agree with the “are you ready” and I would add that you never drop someone else’s string into a puddle! Always let them wind it back in while you hold it up, just common courtesy
I love this man's wisdom.
I could have used this video about 6 months ago when I snapped a few lines in my basement before I knew the difference between red and blue. Sometimes learning the hard way really leaves a lasting impression haha.
Thanks for the info on chalk boxes. I have been using them for years and still learned something.
Stepping into the Way-Back machine, remember when we just used string and had a chunk of blue chalk it our tool bag? Your would pull the string across the chunk of chalk as you walked out and then uses it as you would use a chalk box now. The chunks I remember were domed shaped, round at the base.
When I did construction we always carried 2 colors. Blue and ______. I usually carried red. The reason is we would start with blue. If the layout got messed up we could go over it in red and keep things straight.
Nothing like trying to go fast and finding out you and your buddy are on 2 different blue lines and nothing matches up.
These are the types of videos that make EC so great. Simple things that are often overlooked. Great job
This guy just oozes integrity...
It's Like he's almost comically respectable.
The sweater is key. He reminds me of my father.
Comically respectable? Men of respect blessed with wisdom of the ages. Or if you prefer mountain men who be rich. -Wu
I can listen to you for hours !!!! Thanks for sharing:))
Good on your Scotty
bloody good video
I’m on holiday at the moment in Bendigo Victoria and I found two anvils at the Bendigo Central Deborah gold mine
I took photos of them but I don’t have an email to send them to you if you want to send me your email you never know you might end up with them they would be from the 1850s......
They look like they’re forged anvils one has had a fair bit of work on the on side it’s pretty good on the offside
the other one looks really good almost new........
Happy New Year and God bless you mate
I appreciate you and I always promote your channel every chance I get since I found it a week ago. God bless you and your family sir!
My grandfather always let out the whole spool, then filled his box about a quarter of the way. Then spooled the line while shaking the box. I don't know if it's better but that's the way I do it.
🎵 we can skin a buck and run a chalk line, because a country boy can survive 🎵
The lyric is "trot" line, a form of passive fishing. You may have known this and were just making a pun, but a ton of people watch these videos who have no idea how hunter-gatherers feed their families.
Love your channel. Lots of practical information delivered in a way that a novice can understand. Thanks!
After you have ripped a fingernail off in cold weather, you realize the head of a nail opens the chalk door.
Young tradesmen. Listen to this man. Knowledge is power.
Being very honest I have never done this myself. But at one time I worked with a very old and gnarly framerand he used only black concrete dye in his chalk boxes. The lines never went away regardless of the rain snow or ice on the slab or plywood. But I swear he had to buy a new box three weeks because the concrete dye was so hard on the mechanism. His philosophy was chalk boxes are cheaper than having to re-snap lines which was expensive, double work, and highly inefficient.
Very well presented! Great video! Thanks
That dang neighbor kid always messing things up 😂
I think I'm going to just stick around and follow your teachings so that I can better teach my staff . It gets no better. Thank you
We go through a lot of chalk boxes... particularly when somebody "borrows" one... more like they just take it lol
This guy soothe my soul to sleep with the best craftsmanship ideas.
I use a chalk box every day, blue, black, red, green. I couldn't imagine using one of those Irwins ever again! These days I only use tajima but a Milwaukee box is good as long as you treat it right.
Andrew Doogee My Tajima line got weak and started snapping with the slightest pull after about a year. Not a bad run though, and it was indeed a _very_ nice line: the line was thin, making it less susceptible to wind and more precise, light in weight, and had high elasticity, which I thought was nice, and it rewound beautifully. I got a replacement a few months ago, but lost it and am now using a backup Milwaukee; not a bad line either (the best local one here) but not quite a Tajima.
I have had good look with my Milwaukee. DeWalt and Irwin are garbage, probably because Stanley owns both
I'm not a noob, but I always learn something from your videos, and I share the info with my co-workers/subs. Your videos not only make my life at work easier, but make me more valuable to the contractor I sub for. I can't thank you enough, but if you ever find yourself in Post Falls, Idaho, my lady and I would be honored to have you over for my "world famous" home made spaghetti.
I wish we build with wood here in Spain, but it is too expensive. I could construct a whole house having seen your videos.
J
Nice to see your old chalk lines , I have one that I bought 40 years ago on my first week I worked
I had to make a new handle for it thats all, Happy new year to you Scott and your family
It's not nubes its noobs. Newb
5hrs later he updated the image. What a legend
There is two, newbie (new-B) and noob. So they're both correct.
@@xenonram Newb is what noobs use.
@@XykuJoxa Guys, stop it
@@rooftopvoter3015 not to be confused with noob-tubing, from the game Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2.
Little things make the difference. I loved your explanation. I am about to start in construction and before walking in, I’m learning the little details that will save my day. Thanks for this content...
Gotta call you out on this one. You make one of the most common mistakes made by "Noobs" with a chalk line. You pluck the string WAY too hard! The string accelerates away leaving a lot of the chalk behind as a cloud in the air instead of putting it on your substrate. The lightest pluck necessary is best. You can do more lines without re-rolling. More accurate too.
I'm going to try that I'm a heavy hitter chalk line plucker
Mate this is a really simple, good video.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars
All of the mistakes you talked about have been committed by me.
So say all of us :-)
Same here
Apparently he stalks me as well.
You’ll never be great at something if you never made a mistake and learned from it. It’s only bad if you keep making that same mistake over and over.
ill never forget the first (and last) time i managed to bind a brand new chalk box in front of the whole crew.
Tajima chalk lines... you'll never realize how bad every other chalk line is until you own a Tajima
I bought of those those and it leaks like a sieve. I used same brand chalk. Not happy at this point.
metal case or plastic case?
Plastic
It came with a small piece of foam for the neck to help avoid this I assume and it doesn't seem to help. My next step was to get a higher density foam to try the same. Perhaps it's just the line is still fluffy and carrying too much chalk...
@@bjcombs1989 The plastic case are ok... mine have never leaked. I should have specified that I am talking about the metal case Tajima's. The CR 200's series.
Happy New Year Scott and Natt and family