HAND TOOLS
Marking & Measuring
Guides about marking & measuring.
4 guides
What is 5/16 on a Measuring Tape?
5/16 on a tape measure is the 5th mark from any inch — shortest height, between 1/4 and 3/8. Read all tape fractions without counting every tick.
How to Read a Tape Measure — Cheat Sheet
The mark hierarchy, decimal-to-fraction table, and every symbol explained
Learn to read any imperial tape measure marking. Includes the full decimal-to-fraction conversion table, mark height guide, and special markings decoded.
Choosing Your First Marking Knife
The First Layout Tool Worth Owning
A marking knife severs wood fibers for hairline-precise layout lines. Learn single vs. double bevel, the knife wall technique, and which knife to buy.
How to Use a Rafter Square
Speed Squares, Angles, and Rafter Cuts Explained
Learn to use a rafter square: mark 90° and 45° cuts, find any angle, guide a circular saw, and lay out rafter cuts — every marking explained.