Keywords
Architecture
Tools
A marking gauge. A tool used to draw accurate, straight lines on the surface of timber. The marking blade is fixed to the tip of a narrow rod *sao 竿, which is, in turn, set into a rectangular block known as the guide, jōgidai 定規台. The guide runs along the edge of the wood to cut a straight, parallel line. The guide and arm are made from hard woods like rosewood, ebony, boxwood, cherry, and various types of Japanese oak, shirakashi 白樫, akagashi 赤樫 or nara 楢, which warp very little. The marking blade is shaped like a small knife, usually about 6-12mm wide, the tip of which must be well sharpened before use.