Heirloom Calipers & Dividers Set

With some simple tools and a little time, you can build a complete set of quality layout tools.

All it takes is some basic tools you probably already have: a hacksaw, a few files, and a drill press. Cutting, filing, and drilling the steel blanks isn’t a big deal. And some final polishing with sandpaper gives them a nice, satin finish. To connect the two legs so they hold their set position, some traditional tools use a threaded rod with a knurled nut. Others use a simple wingnut to tighten the legs of the tool. This design uses a simple, but effective technique: a friction joint. A pair of disc springs and a simple brass rivet apply just the right amount of pressure to keep the legs from slipping. It works beautifully.

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What You Get:

  • 9 printable (digital) pages of step-by-step instructions
  • More than 30 full-color photos, illustrations and exploded views
  • Shop-tested tips for working with metal ensure you success
  • Materials list
  • Retail sources for project supplies

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We don't have any links to project supplies and hardware for this particular project yet, but here are some other products that might be of interest to you. (We may receive commission when you use our affiliate links. However, this does not impact our recommendations.)

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