Measure twice cut once. just make sure the measurement is OK

[TRAIL-OF-TEARS]

Well last weekend I decided to add an electrical outlet to my galley (camp inn style) so I get an outlet box and some wire and make my marks and start cutting. I made a real nice cut, and the box fit perfectly flush in the hole. Yesterday I go to buy a cover plate for the plug (which ended up being brass not stainless like the package said ) that is when I realized my mistake. I cut the hole the size of the box not the plug. the cover plate is about the same size as the box. Good thing I had some 1/4" birch so I just re-skined that section, re-cut the door and outlet holes and will reinstall my hardware as soon as it is varnished again. doh

[madjack]

...you know I measured and cut that board 3 times and it is still too short
madjack

[Woody]

Madjack.
Now where have I heard thar before, Hmmm, I wonder

[Chris C]

Madjack, as I've mentioned before, I make my living cutting wood. And believe me, I've done exactly what you described. Man, is it ever frustrating. Just wish that one time every single piece going into a piece of furniture came out exactly as required. Just doesn't happen.

[Marck]

I had a similiar problem when I was doing the drop floor in the SixPack.
I had one tape measure in the tear and one at the table saw, I measured in the tear, then went to the saw, and did the cut, got in the tear with it and found it was almost 1/4" short. I was not happy.... later I compared the 2 tapes, measuring the same board with both, yep, about 1/4" off, seems the tab on the end of the one tape was not on right or something making that difference...I now use the same one for all cuts, & measurements.

[Chris C]

Marck,

You just learned a lesson all woodworkers learn sooner or later. Never use more than one measuring device on a project.............unless you verifry they measure the same. Sorry you had to learn it the hard way, but don't we all?

[mikeschn]

I try not to use the tabbed end of a tape measure. I prefer to shift everything by one inch. I've been bit by inaccuracies before...

Mike...

[madjack]

...yep, been there, done that, bought the t-shirt, bought the book, saw the movie...yep
madjack

[SteveH]

Not me! I've NEVER done anything like that!

[Chris C]

Yes, Mike, burning an inch is a good practice...............if you can remember when you do it! But, surprisingly, not all measuring tools measure the same. Try this...............gather every measuring tape, etc., you have and measure out 5 foot and see if they all measure the same. Bet they don't! It's surprising how different manufacturers come up with such discrepancies......but they do. That's why I never use more than one tape when I'm making furniture. I will, though, use my dial calipers more than any other measuring device when measuring 6" or less.

[angib]

I will, though, use my dial calipers more than any other measuring device when measuring 6" or less.

Yup, they're one of the best workshop treats to buy yourself, even if you think you don't need them.

My tip is that I've been using the same plastic (well, glass-filled nylon, I think) ones for many years. I'd laughed at the idea of plastic until I used them at work and now I'm a convert.

Andrew

[An Ol Timer]

Thank GOD for my good old fashioned folding stick ruler. Worked before tapes and still does.

[Chris C]

A lot of really fine pieces of furniture has been built using a good folding rule...................just don't use two different ones from different makers. Same problem.

[DestinDave]

I too like a folding rule but whenever possible I use the same old trusty 4-foot aluminum "yardstick"...

[An Ol Timer]

I too, have and use, a "4-foot aluminum "yardstick"..." given out 45 years ago as a gift for joining my Credit Union. No guts, No Glory! I was afraid to post it, as I thought that maybe it would give the Striped paint and left handed monkey wrench gang a field day!!!!!