How to use a Tape Measure

Tools, tools-Measuring

What do all those little lines mean anyway. A closeup look at the markings of a standard U.S. tape measure. Inch lines, 1/2″ 1/4″ 1/8″ and 1/16″ lines are explained. Click on the picture to start the movie. Also an answer to that burning...

Hand Tools

Tools

My list of tools needed by a techie. Yes, in the order of my preference. Don’t forget something to hold it all in. Safety Glasses Gloves Tape Measure (At least 16′),Adjustable Wrench (a.k.a. C-Wrench),Pocket Knife (keep it sharp) Phillip’s Screw...

Sabre Saw

Tools

This is a Sabre Saw, aka, Jig Saw. This saw uses a blade that travels up and down. This cut is being bad using a piece of wood as a straight edge. The line that needs to be cut was marked at both ends, then the wood was placed 1 1/4″ from the line. This is the...

Drill / Screw Guns

Tools

Comments & Suggestions from our visitors:Tech Tip – when using a screw gun, make sure it’s in the lower speed for driving screws. Then “squeeze and release” the trigger. This technique prevents the screw head from getting stripped. NEVER allow...

Circular Saw

Tools

This is a blurry circular saw. Don’t worry, it still cuts in focus. The blade spins counter clockwise, thus pushing the wood chips up into the dust guide. Take a close look and you’ll see a hole just to the left of the number 2. In this shot you see my thumb pushing...

Drill Press

Tools

This is a Sears Drill Press. This photo show that various drill press table accessories we have set up. The clamp to the bottom right is holding a piece of plywood to the metal table. This wood acts as a buffer to keep the drill bits from hitting the metal. The vice...

Table Saw 2

Tools

The table saw is one of the largest power tools used in the scene shop. It is never to be used with out proper supervision and proper safety practices.

SlidingCompound Power Miter Saw

Tools

This saw is a 12″ DeWalt chop saw that can do compound miters and can slide out to cut wood up to 12″ wide. Sort of like a radial arm saw. This saw is to never to be used with out proper supervision and proper safety practices. Remember to always wear...

Routers

Tools

A router is an extremely versatile tool. It’s another spinning tool requiring all long hair and loose clothing to be tied back/up… The motor housing sits in a frame that allows you to adjust the blade’s depth via raising and lowering the motor. The frame...

Sanders

Tools

This belt sander will take a lot of material off a piece of wood. be careful not to gouge the out the wood. Belt sanders will leave small lines if you’re not very careful. Two handles should be used for getting the best performance from a belt sander. These...

Band Saw

Tools

The business part of the band saw. The blade and the guide wheels. The wheels keep the blade lined up. The blade moves downward…It’s not obvious, but in this photo there are three guide wheels. One on either side of the blade and another in the back. The...