Mortice and marking gauge – Spear & Jackson Hardware

• Structure: A mortice and marking gauge consists of a long, flat stock or beam, similar to a regular marking gauge, but it has two marking points or cutters instead of one. These two points are typically made of steel and are positioned parallel to each other on the end of the stock. There are also adjustable fence or beam stops, like those found on a standard marking gauge, that allow the user to set the distance between the marking points.

Common Uses:

1. Mortice and Tenon Joints: The primary use of a mortice and marking gauge is for marking and measuring the precise location and dimensions of mortice and tenon joints in woodworking. These joints are widely used in furniture making, cabinetry, and other woodworking projects.
2. Marking Mortices: To create a mortise joint, a woodworker uses one of the marking points on the mortise and marking gauge to scribe the boundaries of the mortise (the rectangular hole) on the workpiece. This ensures that the mortise is precisely sized and accurately positioned.
3. Marking Tenons: When crafting a tenon joint, the other marking point is used to mark the tenon (the protruding part of the wood that fits into the mortice). The tool helps ensure that the tenon is the correct size and fits snugly into the corresponding mortice.
4. Layout and Precision: A mortice and marking gauge is invaluable for laying out and transferring the critical dimensions of a joint from one workpiece to another. This guarantees that the mortice and tenon components match perfectly for a secure and tight fit.
5. Repeatability: Woodworkers use this tool for creating multiple identical mortices and tenons across different workpieces, ensuring uniformity in their projects.
6. Joinery Accuracy: Precision is crucial in joinery work, as even slight variations can affect the strength and appearance of joints. The mortice and marking gauge aids in achieving high levels of accuracy and consistency in joinery tasks.
7. Custom Woodworking: Woodworkers and craftsmen who engage in custom or fine woodworking often rely on mortice and marking gauges to create intricate and precisely fitting joints that elevate the quality and aesthetics of their pieces.

Overall, a mortice and marking gauge is a specialized tool that plays a fundamental role in achieving tight-fitting and structurally sound mortice and tenon joints, which are essential elements in many woodworking projects. This tool ensures that the joints are accurately located and appropriately sized, resulting in strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing finished pieces.