Understanding how to measure and mark-out materials, and which tools to use to do it with, is a crucial early step.

Old Stonemasons Ramblings: Pythagerous Theory, (3,4,5) is a very accurate mathematical equation for a 90% angle/line. On hard to see surfaces use Black Oxide in your chalk line. A taut string line must only be "plucked" at 90% to the surface.

The following tools are commonly used for measuring and marking-out:-

• Pencil – Used to mark lines and centres for cutting or joining. Pencil marks are easy to remove afterwards. It is best to use a sharp pencil very lightly. This gives thin, light lines that don't engrave the workpiece.
• Steel rules – Used to measure materials for cutting or joining. Best used flat against the side and bottom edges. This ensures that measurements are marked from a one consistent spot. Marking out with a steel rule and a sharp pencil can give accurate, removable marks
• Try square – Used to help draw perpendicular lines on materials to mark out the sides of a joint. Best used with the brass edge flat against the side. This ensures that the line is parallel.
• Tape Measure - Length, width, and height are at your fingertips with this helpful strip of inches and centimetres.
• Square - For straight edges and right angles, a square is a helpful device.
• Level - The tiny bubbles in a level will help you to keep objects truly horizontal and vertical.
• Chalk Line - A pluck of the string will give you a puff of chalk and an instant straight line.