Marking Wood

By Robert Robillard on Workshop tips

Marking Trim – Carpenter’s Tip

Bold

Marking Wood – using a pencil or a utility knife

Pencil Marks:

The age old argument between carpenters on marking wood: The Pencil vs. The Utility Knife.  Which one do you use?

A simple pencil mark can be confusing. Sometimes the line is slightly curved. Where do you cut?  Finish marks should be crisp arrow points. The tip of the arrow is the exact mark. Place an “X” on the waste side of the cut.

Utility Knife Marks:
I use my utility knife to make a “tic” mark in all finish work and trim work that I plan on cutting. The knife is thinner than a pencil mark and allows for a more accurate fit.
Leaving the tape measure in my pocket.  I usually try to hold the trim piece in place and then mark it with the knife. This leaves the most accurate mark and usually ends up in a really nice tight fitting board.

~ concord carpenter

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!

About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

All posts by Robert »

Not what you're looking for?

Search for more articles here. Enter keywords like roof leak, bookcase, deck, etc to find your topic.

© Copyright 2019 A Concord Carpenter · All Rights Reserved