Introduction: 2-in-1 Marking Gauge & Beam Compass

By Paoson.com
About: My name is Suso Caamanho. I like doing all sorts of stuff related to musical instruments, woodworking, computer science, electronics... On my website you will find more information, projects, plans, photos...

Hi, this is my new project, a 2-in-1 Marking Gauge and Beam Compass recycling an old Plotter Blade Holder and a few scrap wood

Photo 1 -This is how the SketchUp file looks like, you can download it for free in my web

Photo 2 -To build it I am gonna use a Plotter Blade Holder that as you can see it has a little magnet inside that holds the blade, a bearing so it can turn and this little bolt so we can adjust the hardness of the spring.

Photo3 -I am also going to use scrap wood from guitar making like curly maple and rosewood. Although, the plans are designed to build it with plywood too. Cut all the pieces following the plans.

Video:

Step 1: Mechanizing and Sanding

Photo 4 - Sand all the parts checking the squareness. Glue the rosewood parts to make the guide. To avoid it from moving, insert a couple of screws first.

Photo 5 -Mechanize the adjust channel in the 3D Router and the location of the plotter blade.

Photo 6-Give its shape to the base and improve the surface finish using the band saw. Next, make the drill hole for the threaded insert.

Photo 7 -And now, mechanize the knob.

Photo 8 -I am gonna sharp a bolt on my Belt Sander Table so I can use it as rotation axis.

Step 2: Varnishing and Trying

Photo 9 -This is my new toy, a branding Iron for wood.

Photo 10 -Sand and varnish it with spray lacquer.

Photo 11 -And it is ready, so I am gonna try first the Marking Gauge.

Photo 12 -You can also use a pencil instead of the blade.

Photo 13 -And now I'll try the Beam Compass with a marker.

Photo 14 -Of course, you can also use the blade here.