Layout work tips and tricks

All the lines, arcs and angles we mark on our forming and fabrication work to guide us fall under the heading of layout work. Sometimes work is produced directly from the layout and other times it’s used as a reference so we don’t make a mistake.

All images courtesy T. Lipton

Grind the tip of a center punch to a 90° included angle.

For larger fabrications and arc layout, trammel points that clamp to common bar stock sizes are excellent options.

It’s tricky deciding how much layout work needs to happen for any particular job. Some jobs don’t require any, whereas others are so complicated that a large amount is necessary to avoid errors. The following are some tips when a job requires layout.

■ When center punching, grind the tip of your center punch to a 90° included angle. This angle is extremely durable. Use a soft metal hammer like copper or soft steel to strike the center punch. This keeps the hammer from accidentally slipping off the head of the center and spoiling the work when you give the punch a solid blast. Hard steel on hard steel is like a banana peel on an icy sidewalk. Keep the tip nice and crisp so you can feel it click into the scribe lines.

■ You will need at least two sizes of dividers. A set with a 6″ radius ability will carry you a long way. I like having a set in which I can interchange a pencil with one of the legs. This is great for template work.

■ For larger fabrications and arc layout, trammel points that clamp to common bar stock sizes are excellent options. Trammel points that can fit a range of bar sizes are superior. The eccentric-point type also holds a wooden pencil for paper pattern layout. Fine adjustments are easily made by rotating the eccentric point.

■ Deep scribe lines can be a failure point when forming. Use a superfine point marker or pencil if the part will be subject to high stress. High-strength materials and tight-radius bends fail along these little stress risers.