Build a Cutting Gauge

Wood scientist and consultant Howard Brickman first saw this cutting gauge being used by a veteran stairbuilder who referred to it as “the pair of pants.” The gauge is also known as a "preacher" for its proclivity to tell the truth. Howard uses his preacher to fill in pieces when laying a floor. In this video, he demonstrates his simple method of building the gauge by cutting the jaw opening a shade wider than the thickness of a typical floorboard.

To learn more about Howard's technique, read Making a French knot.

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