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January 7, 2015

Carpenter’s Square:  Definition and Uses

The carpenter’s square is a tool that has been around for centuries.  It was developed at least as early as 1800.  The earliest tools produced in the United States were believed to have been made for carpenters by Silas Hawes, a blacksmith in Vermont, beginning shortly after the War of 1812 ended.1

The carpenter’s square consists of what is basically a large, L-shaped piece of metal.  The modern standard sizing is that the longer side, called the “blade”, is 24 inches. The shorter side, called the “tongue” is 16 inches. One should not be fooled by the simplicity of its appearance, however:  the carpenter’s square contains numerous scales, including a diagonal scale, a board foot scale, and an octagonal scale.  These scales allow a carpenter to quickly compute the complex calculations required for framing, roofing, and stairs work…the very foundations of building a wood-frame house!

DIY Home Workshop Uses:  The carpenter’s square is one of the foundational tools of a home DIY-er’s toolbox.  In addition to framing, roofing, and building stairs, the carpenter’s square can be used as a ruler to mark and cut large wood stock, as a straight edge with a corner, and a tool to check for square on an endless number of projects.  At See Jane Drill, we use our carpenter’s square all the time.

Buying Tips:  The difference in price between a quality square and a cheap one isn’t very much, just a few dollars.  You can get a quality square, such as one made by Stanley, for around $15.   It is worth it, because it will be a reliable square that you will use for many years to come.  There are times when we recommend going with a more inexpensive version of a tool, but this isn’t it.  Buy a quality tool, and you will be glad you did.

Other Names:  The carpenter’s square goes by several other names, including “steel square”, “rafter square”, “roofing square” and “framing square”. 

References:  1″Steel Square; also known as Carpenter’s Square”, www.woodworkinghistory.com

by See Jane Drill, Copyright 2015, All Rights Reserved