Get Blem Squares Here: lddy.no/fdk9 Support What We Do at The Katz-Moses Store* bit.ly/KMWstore20 Starrett 6” Square: amzn.to/2PCeMxr Starrett 12” Square 4 Piece Kit: amzn.to/2vwS2bk Veritas Layout Square: bit.ly/2VwJwnv
I'm on my third attempt at a straight 8' saw guide. Resorted to U-shaped aluminum on a factory edge of bb ply this go-round and STILL not there. Slight bow in it after assembly. Sigh. I might start chopping up angle iron from a bed frame I found. Got any videos on making due? If I get one thing straight, all else will follow.
Another tip is that when adjusting your squares if you make it a habit to hold nearest to the blade during the slide motion they'll stay square longer, further away from the blade technically should cause a microscopic amount of racking tension combined with the sliding motion and rub a tiny bit harder on one adjustment post than the other, a trick I use on my Empire square that I have to tune once a year, maybe I wouldn't have to be as anal if I had an expensive one.
I like Harbor Freight squares, perfect for checking 89 and 91ish degree angles, and the built in bubble level is perfect for making sure you have some slope in a concrete form for proper drainage.
Fom the rare few times I've had to do a little bit of concrete patchwork around the home, it seems it would be brutal on many measuring tools, so good enough yet cheap to replace is the way to.
Dude. I just got blown up by some folks for saying that the Empires and other lower end squares are not always accurate, that they don't stay that way after tuning them, and that it is wise to upgrade, and here you are, 102 comments in and have only ONE person really hating. I'm starting to think that I'm just a magnet. HA! Great video as always!
@@InspireWoodcraft not sure if you are joking but I think CementRoots is saying that your videos came out with the PEC blem info and a couple days later katz-moses not only has a pile of them but an affiliate link. and by checking the cross-posted items on ebay revisions you can see stock...they have sold more in two days since this video then the last 2 years. so the, ahem, katz is out of the bag and these will either be far less available or far more expensive soon.
Scott Martin Thanks for the clarification. I see what you mean now. I really didn’t understand. If that’s the case, it would stink for my viewers. Heck I’m not even getting the affiliate kickback! Haha
@@InspireWoodcraft no prob man, least I could do, I love your videos! Anyways maybe I should back it up and not start a YT beef (lol). So this video came out 2 days after your second one which is pretty fast unless he got stuff overnighted, so maybe it was in the works. You get a ton of views too so I'm sure you are helping them suckers sell, you should try to get an affiliate link too. Taylor Tools sells on eBay and their own site, and if you look at the item revision log on eBay you can see when the stock is updated when something sells on TayTools.com (presumably). Virtually every blem tool started selling like hotcakes on March the 1st, the date of this video. Not sure how many tools PEC messes up, but let's hope it is a lot ;D I thank both of you guys for putting me on to these - everyone deserves superior accuracy at a fair price. And made in USA is even better
Man I could kiss you! The info on blem squares is an absolute game changer. I have only been woodworking for a couple of years now, and as of late, I have become obsessed with the facts that cheap squares hurt more than help. I have recently purchased a 6 inch PEC square for full price, and it has honestly become one of my most prized possessions in my shop. Since getting it, I have been determined to purchase a 6 and 12 combo square from PEC, but couldn't bring myself to spend 90 bucks on a 6 inch combo square. I just purchased the 6 inch double blem square by PEC from the site in your link. 35 dollars to my door. That's with shipping and handling. It is one in the morning and I was crouched in my bedroom using the light from my computer to enter my card information because I absolutely don't want to waste another second without such a great tool at an amazing price. This might have been the most helpful video of my woodworking career yet, because it makes these high precision tools, which help me be a better woodworker, much more accessible. Thank you for sharing this link. If you can get a kickback from Taylor Tools from me ordering with your code or something, please let me know because I will be ordering the 12 inch combo very soon. Thank you for sharing this awesome secret!
I inherited a book called Steel Square Pocket Book from my grandfather. I think it was a his textbook from school. It was from 1903 and has tricks (I call them tricks cuz I’m ignorant) for marking out all kinds of stuff really fast. It’s mind blowing all that you can do. A lot of it is based on the ratios of rise/run of the square.
Really wish I saw this before today. I just bought an empire 6" combo. When I got home from work I did some playing around with it and my veritas layout square. Over 4.75" it is out maybe 1/32 of an inch. That is 0.00657. For most of my needs that is sufficient. There is also a slight high spot in the middle of the one side, that I could hone out with my wet stones, but again, it is sufficient. Especially since I will be using this to mostly marking out screw locations near the edges/ends of boards. I am definitely going to go get a BLEM one from the link though. PS from my experience the Empire stuff is not so much for fine woodworking, but more for general carpentry, ie building a deck or a house. I have seen precision doing that to the nearest 1/4" or if you are lucky 1/8"
Great video. Before watching this, I thought I needed an Igaging or Woodpeckers little square, setup blocks, and all these other fancy do-dads, but by using a combination square for all these things and more, it's already paid for itself. Thank you for the first person to give an honest and informed opinion about squares. So far I've watched a half dozen videos that mostly wasted my time.
My wife and I are building a B class camper van. I used this build of the van to buy several tools I think I will need to accomplish the task. Knowing absolutely nothing about wood working I have turned to TH-cam for answers. You are a one stop shop for knowledge. Your presentation and delivery are comprehensive to the point I am actually learning enough to understand how all this stuff works. Thanks for lessons well done!
My personal advice: buy whatever square you can afford; they are a must. If you can afford one of those nice squares, by all means, get one. But for people like me (just out of college, newly wed, living in a 1 bedroom apartment) a cheap combo square is better than no square. I have been trying to wood work as much as I can and I am amazed at how much better I have gotten with the aid of an Ace Hardware combo square. I thought I was doing okay with a small measuring tape and pair of digital calipers, but I was sorely mistaken.
Hi Jonathan, I just watched your table saw tune up and maintenance video along with this one. I really like your presentation, and your depth of knowledge is quite impressive! It’s a real skill to be able to inspire someone to action by showing the way. I’m looking forward to getting a Starrett 6” double square, and then tuning up my saw thanks to your videos. I really appreciate your channel and the effort you put forth into creating excellent content! I also checked out the Jimmy Diresta ice pick video because of you. Some rabbit hole I’m heading into, but a good one! Thanks! 🙏
I have never owned any good marking tools. All bought from Home Depot and used empire rules. Just went and bought all new blemish rules for under $70. Thanks for sharing this knowledge and maybe I will get to that next level now 👊🏼
just received my first order from Taylor Toolworks and man am i satisfied! Great prices, superb quality (even the blemished tools), and super-efficient shipping! Thanks JKM for bringing this to my attention!
Just picked up a Pec Blem 6 inch double square and a 12 inch combo square with free center finder for about $64. I couldn't be happier. Over the years I just couldn't get myself to pay so much for a Starrett. Good looking out. I'm a very happy woodworker today. Thanks again!
Great tips! I love my Starrette square and worth the money. For those on a budget, I find the plastic drafting triangle square are very accurate. I got mine at Staples. It was my first square for table saw setup. Be gentle and don't ding them up though.
I have a 2 double squares from PEC and Starret (6” and 4”) and a 12” Starret combination square. I use the Starret for machine setups and the double squares for layout and joinery. Good ones help with precision and I don’t regret spending the money on good squares.
Ha, thanks for showing how that center finder attachment works. I just picked up my first 4 piece combo square yesterday just to have when the need arises. Got the stainless 24"'er from HF. I checked it out against my Swanson speed square and it is perfectly accurate. The straight edge ruler is also perfectly flat on all sides. $8.50 on sale👍
I bought a machinist square at Menards and used it to set up all my tools. I didn't realize it wasn't actually square and made my projects hell for months!
thank you Katz. oh i got the starrett combo set back in the 70s yes it cost an arm and a leg about 58$ .it still works great . the center finder will work as a saddle square too.
Wow, such a well put video about all types of squares and there uses, great tips, great way of not keeping it boring. Your an amazing woodworker… thank you for the tips and knowledge.. best wishes
At 7:15, you are right that the engine divisions can be used for extremely accurate layout, but it is kind of a goofy way that you do it. Opens you up to error and excessive wear of the divisions, or dulling of your knife on a hardened rule. Instead, stand the rule on edge and guide the scribe, or the unsharpened back edge of your knife, down the division to the surface. This eliminates what is sometimes called parallax error.
Excellent timing. I was debating ordering a set of Woodpecker's one-time combination/ double square set for $250+. They are doing their production run and tonight is the last night they have the ordering open. Glad I didn't because I have a 4pc. combination PEC at work I really like but was having a hard time justifying buying a second set at full retail price especially with the additional features included in the Woodpeckers. Ended up ordering a blemished 4pc. combination and 6" double for $80. Plus it came with free 7pc. bradpoint drill bit set and free shipping. Thanks for the tip Jonathan! Love your channel. Keep up the great work!
I have at _least_ a dozen assorted squares including three 12 inch combination sets (a Starrett, a Mitutoyo and a cheap Chinese) two small combination squares (an Empire which is surprisingly good for what I paid for it, and a cheap one) plus three engineers squares, a precision square (which I bought from Wish and wished I hadn't because it is shite) various framing squares, a big woodworking square, four magnetic welding squares, pairs of 1-2-3 and 25-50-75 blocks which count as squares and are incredibly useful, and I must have forgotten about others like the T-square and plastic tech drawing square. These were collected over 40 years as a toolmaker, and 15 years of retirement now loving working with wood. I loved the tip about using the grove in the combination square as a pencil notch. That was genius and something you wonder how I never thought of it years ago. A tip I would like to seen is how not to lose the retain nut from combination sets. In my case its from the protractor, and thinking about it, I could easily make one, but I am restricted to my home shop during lockdown - which our PM has just told us is now likely to extend well beyond the initial four weeks. We can't even order in tools as they are not delivering that sort of thing - I must have half a dozen items stuck at the border with absolutely no idea when they will be released. It could be months! Are you allowed to mail out your stuff right now, and if yes, does that include international (New Zealand in my case)? Anyway Jonathan... Thanks for keeping us entertained and informed.
Thanks for the tips on quality measure/mark tools, went over to Taylor (yes, I used your link) and got a combo square, a digital level, angle incronometer, misc. supplies, and earned a free set of decent brad-point bits. Though my work is still @ the home carpenter level, I hope to step it up and you hipped me to some great deals on the kind of accurate tools one needs to up their game. Truly accurate tools make the difference between close enough for jazz (I can joke like that 'cause I'm a musician) and close enough for a woodworker. Thanks again!
I got a nice 4 piece blemished set with an extra longer ruler. Must wax/oil! Not cheap but less than half if the brand name was still on it. Blemishes are minor. Great tips!
Thank you for all of your informational videos. I am a beginner woodworker and am soaking up all the knowledge I can. I just ordered a PEC combo square and two 24” rulers. Thank you for the blem link.
I got what I thought was a good combo square and have been using for a while. Was making a table saw sled and couldn't figure out why it was off compared to my framing square. Did the rule two lines check, was off by about 3mm over 200mm!! It wasn't a cheap one either, but I should have checked first
Just bought a PEC blem 4" double...out of everything else seems like. I know this is an older video, but was just about to pull trigger on a few iguaging squares (because I'm cheap). Thanks for talking me down.
Great video as always! I think those two people are just jealous of your dovetail skills! Keep up the great work. On a side note.....I've been using your dovetail jig like crazy lately and it's the best jig for dovetails by far...highly recommend it!!!
You said 1,000,721 I only counted 1,000,719 I guess I can figure out the other two. Thank you very much for sharing. Very informative and I really appreciate that.
5:56 this is the best. I see people doing this all the time and I always struggled with it. I thought it was just a lack of experience - in a way I guess it is.
Honestly, when I began live as a mechanical designer, first thing I bought myself was a set of squares, a set of micrometers, steel scales and was talked out of buying a dial caliper by the guy at the store. He told me, get a Vernier Caliper and you will have it all your life, because no one will steal it. He was totally right, and once you get use to using it it's no slower to use than a dial caliper. I have actually walked off and left my calipers out on a machine, then went back and they were still there and they had been moved. picked up, looked at and put back down. Over the years guys have walked over and looked them over and asked why I haven't gotten a "good set" of calipers. I'd tell them, "Those ARE great calipers". I still have them.
@@OvertravelX Back in my machinist and mechanical engineer life I started with Mitutoyo dial calipers and mics. Inspecting sintered tungsten parts destroyed my steel dial sets so I invested in a 12" digital set with carbide jaw inserts: cost me $425 back in 1996... but I still have and use that set. I later picked up a set of 6" Etalon dial calipers out of curiosity, I like them alot too.
Awesome video, thanks for the hook up on the boem squares, been wanting to buy a good quality square but was hesitant to shell out the $100 for a quality tool. Have my PEC 6" square on the way now for only $30.
What you are calling a t-square is actually called a double square. Every t-square that I've seen consists of a long ruler with a perpendicular end that is not adjustable (not sure if there are adjustable t-squares or not). In either case, very informative, and I picked up some tricks alone the way :)
My very 1st square is a super cheap speedsquare + a cheap handheld powerplaner (a powertools that rarely used by many woodworker creator on youtube). Made my very 1st project a ladder chair to maximize a space in my shop and that not a very pleasing final product. I made it but not so proud of it since the 4 leg not square yet paralel to each other. My only regret is trust the item so much without checking it squareness for both the speedsquare and and handheld powerplaner that find out to be not square evenin their 1st 30cm (error bout 3mm). Thank for the sharing man and hopefully you could teach us bout how to use handheld power planner. :)
I still use a Lufkin 18” combo square that my dad used in the 50’s. He worked in a factory and scratched his initials in the side. Excellent square. Use it all the time.
My dad too was a machinist for 60 years and left me his lufkin combo set including a 24” rule that is dead on square to this day. Quality tools never go out of style.
Thanks KM! I just found the great accuracy of using a marking knife along with a good square! I'd add one to your list of ways to use them: 1,000,722 - Set the marking knife into the dimension you want and then slide the handle of the square to the knife. Accurate and you can get it down to the 64th. Also found a great marking knife: Stanley # 10-040 ... inexpensive and folds for safety in your apron.
You voiced down aluminum squares as a carpenter's 24 X16. But they out there. They may not be square but can be adjusted using a hammer and cold chisel. If the internal is acute (less than 90) hammer the interior with the chisel a bit and the angle will open. If the interior angle is (greater than 90) hammer the exterior corner with the chisel and it will begin to approach 90. Of course a reliable square template is need and may be factory cut sheet of plywood.
I've been extremely interested in wood working for ages now. Finally moving to a space where I can start, watching your videos have been great and really exasperated my love for the craft. Thank you for all the information
Talked myself out of an expensive Woodpecker combo square, and got a 4 piece blem set from your link. 12" blade vs the 6" on the WP, and the blem has both metric and imperial! I am in the US, but would like to use metric where the items are smaller, and precision is more easy with mm.
Hi! First of all I wanted to say that I learn a lot from your videos. I wanted to ask, what tools for marking and measuring do you recommend using and do they have measurements in centimeters. Because unfortunately most of the tools you use are marked in inches. Thank you
I realize this is a year old, but I was looking for ways to up my game, Thanks for sharing your knowledge in a very articulate manner. I always enjoy watching your video, but I always wind up spending money buying more tools, btw, love the flip stop.
Great information, very helpful. I have been struggling trying to find a square square, so I decided to buy a blemished one from the link provided. I got it a couple of days ago and I'm blown away by how accurate they are, and so affordable! Thanks for the tip, keep'em coming
I just purchased a PEC blem combo square and folks, and the difference between this tool and the Stanley/Sears/Irwin models is night and day. The head itself weighs more than an entire Sears 16" stainless steel combo square. There is absolutely no slop in the fit between the blade and head. The markings are super clear and the edges are tack sharp. What you're paying for: 1) better steel 2) extra labor to mill the parts to higher tolerances 3) higher quality control, resulting in a single tool that can serve many different purposes, as Mr. Katz-Moses so elegantly explains. Dude, thank you for helping a brother out! I love your videos and can tell a ton of work went into editing them---you get to the point quickly and clearly and we're lucky to have someone who is not only a talented woodworker but also a teacher (MOST of us cannot teach, contrary to popular belief).
Great video Jonathan. Seen a lot of these tips scattered about in different YT videos, but you've got so many uses condensed into this one video, this will be my go-to source ( until I can remember them all ) for guidance 😉 thanks again.
Very helpful. Could not find anything like this at the big box stores. Just ordered my "blems". Hope you're getting some affiliate love on that link, as I wouldn't have known about it without this video.
Jonathan, you are right, I have bought the machinist squares from Amazon for 8 bucks and had to return them because they were not square. I paid more for PEC, Moore and Wright and those were great. What do you need a double square? Can’t you just use a small combination square? I use a 4 and 6 inch machinist and 6 and 12 inch combination. Isn’t that enough? I would like to get the compass though. BTW, I say again, I love your videos. Keep making them. Thanks.
Thanks bud. Everyone has different work flow. I like the t-squares as opposed to the machinist squares because they do the same thing but also so much more.
Thanks again for an informative video How you review tools I feel that I will be ordering tools that are going to be very helpful and accurate. I ordered your apron this month and next month I will treat myself to the square that goes with the apron Cheers 🇨🇦
I bought an iGaging base off of Amazon reviews... it was definitely NOT square... almost a full 1/16 off. It’s an easy fix though if you know how to sand/polish the feet. After doing that I got it dialed right in... now that I know about the blemished squares I would steer anyone on a budget in that direction over iGaging
I just bought one on China express, cast iron/ steel (no alu) handle and stainless steel ruler. The finish is no where near Starret ofc. But this thing is nicer than most of the big brand ones.. for like 12,- instead of 300,- for the same Starret.
Ever work with ipe wood aka Brazilian iron wood? I've done a few projects with it. Amazing wood but so hard on the tools. Would love any advice on working with harder woods like ipe wood.
Thanks Igaging isn't bad. I've got Sterrett but its hard to read Id like to have mititoyu but a set is over 300 bucks last time I looked if you can even find them now. 40 years ago no problem.
Maybe Empire are different in the States.. I've never had an issue with squareness from the 3 I have in my kit.. I will however take a look at those blames you linked to..
Jonathan, than you for the tips. I’m just getting into fine woodworking - vice construction level building. I ordered a 12 inch combination square and 2 sizes of T-Square and they came today. Very happy with them - fantastic quality, very accurate, and easy to read. I took great pleasure in throwing my crappy old rusty ruler can’t read the damn thing not quite square combo square in the trash. I have to say Taylor Toolworks is a quality outfit - fast shipping and great communication. Thanks for pointing me in their direction. This won’t be my last purchase through them.
At the end of your video you said it to buy cheap squares, like Igauging ! I own several Iguaging measuring devices. What are your real thoughts on them?
Get Blem Squares Here: lddy.no/fdk9
Support What We Do at The Katz-Moses Store* bit.ly/KMWstore20
Starrett 6” Square: amzn.to/2PCeMxr
Starrett 12” Square 4 Piece Kit: amzn.to/2vwS2bk
Veritas Layout Square: bit.ly/2VwJwnv
Thank you
I'm on my third attempt at a straight 8' saw guide. Resorted to U-shaped aluminum on a factory edge of bb ply this go-round and STILL not there. Slight bow in it after assembly. Sigh. I might start chopping up angle iron from a bed frame I found. Got any videos on making due? If I get one thing straight, all else will follow.
Try a steel stud
@@Robyrob7771 thank you
Another tip is that when adjusting your squares if you make it a habit to hold nearest to the blade during the slide motion they'll stay square longer, further away from the blade technically should cause a microscopic amount of racking tension combined with the sliding motion and rub a tiny bit harder on one adjustment post than the other, a trick I use on my Empire square that I have to tune once a year, maybe I wouldn't have to be as anal if I had an expensive one.
I like Harbor Freight squares, perfect for checking 89 and 91ish degree angles, and the built in bubble level is perfect for making sure you have some slope in a concrete form for proper drainage.
Fom the rare few times I've had to do a little bit of concrete patchwork around the home, it seems it would be brutal on many measuring tools, so good enough yet cheap to replace is the way to.
That’s not a bug, that’s a feature!
Hahahahahahaha so true!
Best comment
That is a plus or minus a degree auto add -on feature to a Harbor Freight squares.... no need worries.
Dude. I just got blown up by some folks for saying that the Empires and other lower end squares are not always accurate, that they don't stay that way after tuning them, and that it is wise to upgrade, and here you are, 102 comments in and have only ONE person really hating. I'm starting to think that I'm just a magnet. HA! Great video as always!
CementRoots Sorry man I’m not really sure what you’re talking about.
@@InspireWoodcraft not sure if you are joking but I think CementRoots is saying that your videos came out with the PEC blem info and a couple days later katz-moses not only has a pile of them but an affiliate link. and by checking the cross-posted items on ebay revisions you can see stock...they have sold more in two days since this video then the last 2 years. so the, ahem, katz is out of the bag and these will either be far less available or far more expensive soon.
Scott Martin Thanks for the clarification. I see what you mean now. I really didn’t understand. If that’s the case, it would stink for my viewers. Heck I’m not even getting the affiliate kickback! Haha
@@InspireWoodcraft no prob man, least I could do, I love your videos! Anyways maybe I should back it up and not start a YT beef (lol). So this video came out 2 days after your second one which is pretty fast unless he got stuff overnighted, so maybe it was in the works. You get a ton of views too so I'm sure you are helping them suckers sell, you should try to get an affiliate link too. Taylor Tools sells on eBay and their own site, and if you look at the item revision log on eBay you can see when the stock is updated when something sells on TayTools.com (presumably). Virtually every blem tool started selling like hotcakes on March the 1st, the date of this video. Not sure how many tools PEC messes up, but let's hope it is a lot ;D
I thank both of you guys for putting me on to these - everyone deserves superior accuracy at a fair price. And made in USA is even better
Man I could kiss you! The info on blem squares is an absolute game changer. I have only been woodworking for a couple of years now, and as of late, I have become obsessed with the facts that cheap squares hurt more than help. I have recently purchased a 6 inch PEC square for full price, and it has honestly become one of my most prized possessions in my shop. Since getting it, I have been determined to purchase a 6 and 12 combo square from PEC, but couldn't bring myself to spend 90 bucks on a 6 inch combo square. I just purchased the 6 inch double blem square by PEC from the site in your link. 35 dollars to my door. That's with shipping and handling. It is one in the morning and I was crouched in my bedroom using the light from my computer to enter my card information because I absolutely don't want to waste another second without such a great tool at an amazing price. This might have been the most helpful video of my woodworking career yet, because it makes these high precision tools, which help me be a better woodworker, much more accessible. Thank you for sharing this link. If you can get a kickback from Taylor Tools from me ordering with your code or something, please let me know because I will be ordering the 12 inch combo very soon. Thank you for sharing this awesome secret!
I inherited a book called Steel Square Pocket Book from my grandfather. I think it was a his textbook from school. It was from 1903 and has tricks (I call them tricks cuz I’m ignorant) for marking out all kinds of stuff really fast. It’s mind blowing all that you can do. A lot of it is based on the ratios of rise/run of the square.
Really wish I saw this before today. I just bought an empire 6" combo.
When I got home from work I did some playing around with it and my veritas layout square. Over 4.75" it is out maybe 1/32 of an inch. That is 0.00657. For most of my needs that is sufficient. There is also a slight high spot in the middle of the one side, that I could hone out with my wet stones, but again, it is sufficient. Especially since I will be using this to mostly marking out screw locations near the edges/ends of boards.
I am definitely going to go get a BLEM one from the link though.
PS from my experience the Empire stuff is not so much for fine woodworking, but more for general carpentry, ie building a deck or a house. I have seen precision doing that to the nearest 1/4" or if you are lucky 1/8"
Great video. Before watching this, I thought I needed an Igaging or Woodpeckers little square, setup blocks, and all these other fancy do-dads, but by using a combination square for all these things and more, it's already paid for itself. Thank you for the first person to give an honest and informed opinion about squares. So far I've watched a half dozen videos that mostly wasted my time.
My wife and I are building a B class camper van. I used this build of the van to buy several tools I think I will need to accomplish the task. Knowing absolutely nothing about wood working I have turned to TH-cam for answers. You are a one stop shop for knowledge. Your presentation and delivery are comprehensive to the point I am actually learning enough to understand how all this stuff works.
Thanks for lessons well done!
My personal advice: buy whatever square you can afford; they are a must. If you can afford one of those nice squares, by all means, get one. But for people like me (just out of college, newly wed, living in a 1 bedroom apartment) a cheap combo square is better than no square. I have been trying to wood work as much as I can and I am amazed at how much better I have gotten with the aid of an Ace Hardware combo square. I thought I was doing okay with a small measuring tape and pair of digital calipers, but I was sorely mistaken.
Hi Jonathan, I just watched your table saw tune up and maintenance video along with this one. I really like your presentation, and your depth of knowledge is quite impressive! It’s a real skill to be able to inspire someone to action by showing the way. I’m looking forward to getting a Starrett 6” double square, and then tuning up my saw thanks to your videos. I really appreciate your channel and the effort you put forth into creating excellent content! I also checked out the Jimmy Diresta ice pick video because of you. Some rabbit hole I’m heading into, but a good one! Thanks! 🙏
Wow! I never knew one simple tool could do sooo much and sooo well! My mind is completely blown!! Great information, and as always great presentation.
Thanks MT!
I have never owned any good marking tools. All bought from Home Depot and used empire rules. Just went and bought all new blemish rules for under $70. Thanks for sharing this knowledge and maybe I will get to that next level now 👊🏼
just received my first order from Taylor Toolworks and man am i satisfied! Great prices, superb quality (even the blemished tools), and super-efficient shipping! Thanks JKM for bringing this to my attention!
Just picked up a Pec Blem 6 inch double square and a 12 inch combo square with free center finder for about $64. I couldn't be happier. Over the years I just couldn't get myself to pay so much for a Starrett. Good looking out. I'm a very happy woodworker today. Thanks again!
Great tips! I love my Starrette square and worth the money. For those on a budget, I find the plastic drafting triangle square are very accurate. I got mine at Staples. It was my first square for table saw setup. Be gentle and don't ding them up though.
I have a 2 double squares from PEC and Starret (6” and 4”) and a 12” Starret combination square. I use the Starret for machine setups and the double squares for layout and joinery. Good ones help with precision and I don’t regret spending the money on good squares.
Ha, thanks for showing how that center finder attachment works. I just picked up my first 4 piece combo square yesterday just to have when the need arises. Got the stainless 24"'er from HF. I checked it out against my Swanson speed square and it is perfectly accurate. The straight edge ruler is also perfectly flat on all sides. $8.50 on sale👍
Thank you for your well laid out and presented presentation!
Appreciate the “Blem” link. Affordable quality. Yeah!
I bought a machinist square at Menards and used it to set up all my tools. I didn't realize it wasn't actually square and made my projects hell for months!
thank you Katz. oh i got the starrett combo set back in the 70s yes it cost an arm and a leg about 58$ .it still works great . the center finder will work as a saddle square too.
Thanks much for this tip.
Wow, such a well put video about all types of squares and there uses, great tips, great way of not keeping it boring. Your an amazing woodworker… thank you for the tips and knowledge.. best wishes
Thank you so much, bedt spent 17.55 min this year. 🎉❤
At 7:15, you are right that the engine divisions can be used for extremely accurate layout, but it is kind of a goofy way that you do it. Opens you up to error and excessive wear of the divisions, or dulling of your knife on a hardened rule.
Instead, stand the rule on edge and guide the scribe, or the unsharpened back edge of your knife, down the division to the surface. This eliminates what is sometimes called parallax error.
Excellent timing. I was debating ordering a set of Woodpecker's one-time combination/ double square set for $250+. They are doing their production run and tonight is the last night they have the ordering open. Glad I didn't because I have a 4pc. combination PEC at work I really like but was having a hard time justifying buying a second set at full retail price especially with the additional features included in the Woodpeckers. Ended up ordering a blemished 4pc. combination and 6" double for $80. Plus it came with free 7pc. bradpoint drill bit set and free shipping. Thanks for the tip Jonathan! Love your channel. Keep up the great work!
I have learned so much today from you. Mind blown. You have motivated a new wood worker in the best way. Thank you so much. You rock...
Another thing a good square gives you is confidence 👍😊
The opening two minutes was so extra! "We're gonna Crush the knowledge gap!" "knock out" "bang through those" hehe. Love your energy!
Yeah, his positive energy/attitude is just awesome. He's a natural teacher. Wish I'd had him for shop in jr. high.
By far the most useful video I've seen on Squares. You broadened my horizon of how to use the combo squares my dad and grandpa left me
Not once have I ever thought about looking on TH-cam for how to use a square or the many uses for them. Love your videos
Great video Jonathan I’m in the hospital again but watching your videos makes me feel like I’m in the shop, and I can’t wait to get back in there.
Fell better bud!
I agree, combo square is the jam for everything
Great vid! I just got iGaging double square for $35 (with a 6" combination square ). Dead on accurate out of the box.
I have at _least_ a dozen assorted squares including three 12 inch combination sets (a Starrett, a Mitutoyo and a cheap Chinese) two small combination squares (an Empire which is surprisingly good for what I paid for it, and a cheap one) plus three engineers squares, a precision square (which I bought from Wish and wished I hadn't because it is shite) various framing squares, a big woodworking square, four magnetic welding squares, pairs of 1-2-3 and 25-50-75 blocks which count as squares and are incredibly useful, and I must have forgotten about others like the T-square and plastic tech drawing square. These were collected over 40 years as a toolmaker, and 15 years of retirement now loving working with wood.
I loved the tip about using the grove in the combination square as a pencil notch. That was genius and something you wonder how I never thought of it years ago. A tip I would like to seen is how not to lose the retain nut from combination sets. In my case its from the protractor, and thinking about it, I could easily make one, but I am restricted to my home shop during lockdown - which our PM has just told us is now likely to extend well beyond the initial four weeks. We can't even order in tools as they are not delivering that sort of thing - I must have half a dozen items stuck at the border with absolutely no idea when they will be released. It could be months! Are you allowed to mail out your stuff right now, and if yes, does that include international (New Zealand in my case)?
Anyway Jonathan... Thanks for keeping us entertained and informed.
Thanks for the tips on quality measure/mark tools, went over to Taylor (yes, I used your link) and got a combo square, a digital level, angle incronometer, misc. supplies, and earned a free set of decent brad-point bits. Though my work is still @ the home carpenter level, I hope to step it up and you hipped me to some great deals on the kind of accurate tools one needs to up their game. Truly accurate tools make the difference between close enough for jazz (I can joke like that 'cause I'm a musician) and close enough for a woodworker. Thanks again!
I got a nice 4 piece blemished set with an extra longer ruler. Must wax/oil! Not cheap but less than half if the brand name was still on it. Blemishes are minor. Great tips!
Hahaha, I wish I could show you what my dad's old combo square looks like...perfect for drawing waves in a uniform manner.
Thanks for the Blem link. I finally found the kind of squares I've been looking for without the prohibitive cost!
Thank you for all of your informational videos. I am a beginner woodworker and am soaking up all the knowledge I can. I just ordered a PEC combo square and two 24” rulers. Thank you for the blem link.
I got what I thought was a good combo square and have been using for a while. Was making a table saw sled and couldn't figure out why it was off compared to my framing square. Did the rule two lines check, was off by about 3mm over 200mm!! It wasn't a cheap one either, but I should have checked first
Bought two blem squares, used the money I saved to buy your dovetail jig. Thanks you!
Just bought a PEC blem 4" double...out of everything else seems like. I know this is an older video, but was just about to pull trigger on a few iguaging squares (because I'm cheap). Thanks for talking me down.
Great video as always! I think those two people are just jealous of your dovetail skills! Keep up the great work. On a side note.....I've been using your dovetail jig like crazy lately and it's the best jig for dovetails by far...highly recommend it!!!
Thanks so much brother!
You said 1,000,721 I only counted 1,000,719 I guess I can figure out the other two.
Thank you very much for sharing. Very informative and I really appreciate that.
5:56 this is the best. I see people doing this all the time and I always struggled with it. I thought it was just a lack of experience - in a way I guess it is.
Honestly, when I began live as a mechanical designer, first thing I bought myself was a set of squares, a set of micrometers, steel scales and was talked out of buying a dial caliper by the guy at the store. He told me, get a Vernier Caliper and you will have it all your life, because no one will steal it. He was totally right, and once you get use to using it it's no slower to use than a dial caliper.
I have actually walked off and left my calipers out on a machine, then went back and they were still there and they had been moved. picked up, looked at and put back down.
Over the years guys have walked over and looked them over and asked why I haven't gotten a "good set" of calipers. I'd tell them, "Those ARE great calipers". I still have them.
I heart my Mitutoyo.
@@OvertravelX
Back in my machinist and mechanical engineer life I started with Mitutoyo dial calipers and mics. Inspecting sintered tungsten parts destroyed my steel dial sets so I invested in a 12" digital set with carbide jaw inserts: cost me $425 back in 1996... but I still have and use that set. I later picked up a set of 6" Etalon dial calipers out of curiosity, I like them alot too.
Awesome video, thanks for the hook up on the boem squares, been wanting to buy a good quality square but was hesitant to shell out the $100 for a quality tool. Have my PEC 6" square on the way now for only $30.
What you are calling a t-square is actually called a double square. Every t-square that I've seen consists of a long ruler with a perpendicular end that is not adjustable (not sure if there are adjustable t-squares or not). In either case, very informative, and I picked up some tricks alone the way :)
The only T square I remember is for old fashioned drafting with that green paper, the 2H pencil, etc. That's what we always called a T square.
My very 1st square is a super cheap speedsquare + a cheap handheld powerplaner (a powertools that rarely used by many woodworker creator on youtube). Made my very 1st project a ladder chair to maximize a space in my shop and that not a very pleasing final product. I made it but not so proud of it since the 4 leg not square yet paralel to each other. My only regret is trust the item so much without checking it squareness for both the speedsquare and and handheld powerplaner that find out to be not square evenin their 1st 30cm (error bout 3mm). Thank for the sharing man and hopefully you could teach us bout how to use handheld power planner. :)
Totally agree with this video!! And, Starrett is the way to go... Get what you pay for!!
I still use a Lufkin 18” combo square that my dad used in the 50’s. He worked in a factory and scratched his initials in the side. Excellent square. Use it all the time.
My dad too was a machinist for 60 years and left me his lufkin combo set including a 24” rule that is dead on square to this day. Quality tools never go out of style.
WOW. thank you so much for the tips. I bought one of the Blem squares and saved a ton. :)
Thanks KM! I just found the great accuracy of using a marking knife along with a good square! I'd add one to your list of ways to use them: 1,000,722 - Set the marking knife into the dimension you want and then slide the handle of the square to the knife. Accurate and you can get it down to the 64th. Also found a great marking knife: Stanley # 10-040 ... inexpensive and folds for safety in your apron.
Got a blemmed 6" T square and 12" square from Taytools and they are AMAZING. 12" one came kinda rusty but they've both been great
Love my 6" blem PEC. The satin finish is amazing to use and eliminates glare. 👍
Thanks Jonathan for all the good info! Just received my blem 12' combo square in the mail today.
The by fa(aa)r best combo-squares, I've ever had is the Ulmia combo-square. Yes, it is expensive, but it' absolutely worth it.
You voiced down aluminum squares as a carpenter's 24 X16. But they out there. They may not be square but can be adjusted using a hammer and cold chisel.
If the internal is acute (less than 90) hammer the interior with the chisel a bit and the angle will open. If the interior angle is (greater than 90) hammer the exterior corner with the chisel and it will begin to approach 90. Of course a reliable square template is need and may be factory cut sheet of plywood.
I've been extremely interested in wood working for ages now. Finally moving to a space where I can start, watching your videos have been great and really exasperated my love for the craft. Thank you for all the information
Talked myself out of an expensive Woodpecker combo square, and got a 4 piece blem set from your link. 12" blade vs the 6" on the WP, and the blem has both metric and imperial! I am in the US, but would like to use metric where the items are smaller, and precision is more easy with mm.
How for off was the protractor? Mine is off 3 degrees. TayTools says that’s normal. Seriously?
Hi! First of all I wanted to say that I learn a lot from your videos. I wanted to ask, what tools for marking and measuring do you recommend using and do they have measurements in centimeters. Because unfortunately most of the tools you use are marked in inches. Thank you
I realize this is a year old, but I was looking for ways to up my game, Thanks for sharing your knowledge in a very articulate manner. I always enjoy watching your video, but I always wind up spending money buying more tools, btw, love the flip stop.
Information dense, to the point, and practical. Thank you.
Great information, very helpful. I have been struggling trying to find a square square, so I decided to buy a blemished one from the link provided. I got it a couple of days ago and I'm blown away by how accurate they are, and so affordable! Thanks for the tip, keep'em coming
I just purchased a PEC blem combo square and folks, and the difference between this tool and the Stanley/Sears/Irwin models is night and day. The head itself weighs more than an entire Sears 16" stainless steel combo square. There is absolutely no slop in the fit between the blade and head. The markings are super clear and the edges are tack sharp. What you're paying for: 1) better steel 2) extra labor to mill the parts to higher tolerances 3) higher quality control, resulting in a single tool that can serve many different purposes, as Mr. Katz-Moses so elegantly explains.
Dude, thank you for helping a brother out! I love your videos and can tell a ton of work went into editing them---you get to the point quickly and clearly and we're lucky to have someone who is not only a talented woodworker but also a teacher (MOST of us cannot teach, contrary to popular belief).
You nailed it bud!
You sir are the wood shop teacher I never had. Thank you for this video!
Great video Jonathan. Seen a lot of these tips scattered about in different YT videos, but you've got so many uses condensed into this one video, this will be my go-to source ( until I can remember them all ) for guidance 😉 thanks again.
Very helpful. Could not find anything like this at the big box stores. Just ordered my "blems". Hope you're getting some affiliate love on that link, as I wouldn't have known about it without this video.
Great Info! I see you have one of Matt's marking knives too!
That thing is so beautiful. One of my favorite gifts of all time
@@katzmosestools I have an ebony one, love it!
Link?
@@Astronaut_FX mattestlea.com/shop/ Seems to be working on the website right now. Check his youtube channel too!
Great vid, great personality, good information that I've been looking for.
Jonathan, you are right, I have bought the machinist squares from Amazon for 8 bucks and had to return them because they were not square. I paid more for PEC, Moore and Wright and those were great. What do you need a double square? Can’t you just use a small combination square? I use a 4 and 6 inch machinist and 6 and 12 inch combination. Isn’t that enough? I would like to get the compass though. BTW, I say again, I love your videos. Keep making them. Thanks.
Thanks bud. Everyone has different work flow. I like the t-squares as opposed to the machinist squares because they do the same thing but also so much more.
Very informative - I like that you showed how they're used in other ways around the shop, not just for measuring.
Thank you my friend!
Thanks Jonathan!!!!
My favorite of your videos, and that is really saying something. Thank you very much.
Just ordered a 4 piece kit and a 4” from Taylor. Thanks!
How for off was the protractor? Mine is off 3 degrees! Precision they say?
Dude you are laying down some gold here! Thank you!
Thanks again for an informative video
How you review tools I feel that I will be ordering tools that are going to be very helpful and accurate.
I ordered your apron this month and next month I will treat myself to the square that goes with the apron
Cheers 🇨🇦
OUTSTANDING, you really helped me to measure up😜. Thank you for your expertise, you show off😀.
I enjoyed this SO much! Thank you!
I can always count on your videos to give good, informative and encouraging tips and tricks. Thanks a lot!
had me worried for a second when you said igaging, ive always had good luck with mine :P
haha me too. I literally bought one yesterday and was bummed for a sec when he said that.
Are igaging ok? I’m in the UK and the shipping for the blem products makes them pretty expensive.
I bought an iGaging base off of Amazon reviews... it was definitely NOT square... almost a full 1/16 off. It’s an easy fix though if you know how to sand/polish the feet. After doing that I got it dialed right in... now that I know about the blemished squares I would steer anyone on a budget in that direction over iGaging
picked up a 6" double square thanks for that tip on the website
Great video 👍!! Very informative, going to get all my squares out and check everything for squareness now 😃 😂
Great video and great advice! It’s expensive to go cheap on tools, a good tools lasts a lifetime
I just bought one on China express, cast iron/ steel (no alu) handle and stainless steel ruler.
The finish is no where near Starret ofc. But this thing is nicer than most of the big brand ones..
for like 12,- instead of 300,- for the same Starret.
What about Woodpeckers squares?? I have many of them and they are great!!
It’s good to be square! Thanks for costing me more money! It was time to upgrade anyway
Ever work with ipe wood aka Brazilian iron wood?
I've done a few projects with it.
Amazing wood but so hard on the tools. Would love any advice on working with harder woods like ipe wood.
Love your Matt Estlea marking knife........good info on the squares thanks
Thanks a lot for those tips, super big help!
Thanks
Igaging isn't bad.
I've got Sterrett but its hard to read
Id like to have mititoyu but a set is over 300 bucks last time I looked if you can even find them now. 40 years ago no problem.
Maybe Empire are different in the States.. I've never had an issue with squareness from the 3 I have in my kit..
I will however take a look at those blames you linked to..
Thanks a bunch for all the info. Great video!!
Great video! Learned a ton and picked up some blemished squares.
nail set, glue scraper, large screw driver, pry bar, nail bender for nails that go into pocket door through the casing.
Would love to see how these where first invented.
Who did it, did they change over time or originally built like this.
Jonathan, than you for the tips. I’m just getting into fine woodworking - vice construction level building. I ordered a 12 inch combination square and 2 sizes of T-Square and they came today. Very happy with them - fantastic quality, very accurate, and easy to read. I took great pleasure in throwing my crappy old rusty ruler can’t read the damn thing not quite square combo square in the trash. I have to say Taylor Toolworks is a quality outfit - fast shipping and great communication. Thanks for pointing me in their direction. This won’t be my last purchase through them.
Thanks for the tip on the blemished tools! Just ordered a combination set and got a free mag tool holder. Fantastic deal!
How for off was the protractor? Mine is off 3 degrees!
At the end of your video you said it to buy cheap squares, like Igauging ! I own several Iguaging measuring devices. What are your real thoughts on them?
Hi Jonathan, does Starrett actually make their 6” combination square or is there a third party involved?