What Is A Try Square Used For? Explained Simply

Ever stumbled upon a tool that looks deceptively simple but holds a secret superpower for creativity? That's often how it feels with a try square. While you might picture it in a seasoned woodworker's workshop, this unassuming tool is a quietly brilliant companion for anyone looking to add precision and polish to their projects. It's the unsung hero that helps bring your ideas to life, whether you're a seasoned crafter or just dabbling in a new hobby.

So, what exactly is a try square used for? In its most basic form, a try square is designed to help you draw and check perfectly straight lines and square corners. Think of it as your trusty sidekick for ensuring everything is "just so." For artists, it can be a revelation for creating clean, crisp borders in drawings, ensuring architectural sketches are geometrically sound, or even laying out precise patterns for textile art. Hobbyists, from model builders to scrapbookers, will find it invaluable for cutting materials accurately and assembling pieces with satisfying symmetry. And for the casual learner, it’s a fantastic introduction to the fundamental principles of measurement and alignment, building confidence with every perfectly squared line.

The beauty of the try square lies in its versatility. You'll commonly find the classic style, with a metal blade and a wooden or metal stock, perfect for general woodworking and drafting. Then there are combination squares, which are a bit more sophisticated, offering a sliding head that allows for a wider range of angles and depths. For those into intricate work, smaller, more delicate squares are available, ideal for jewelry making or detailed paper crafts. Whether you're sketching out a landscape with precise perspective, planning a garden bed, or even ensuring your shelves are perfectly level, the humble try square is ready to assist. It’s a tool that transcends specific crafts, proving its worth across a surprising spectrum of creative endeavors.

Ready to give it a whirl? Trying a try square at home is incredibly easy. Start with some simple paper and a pencil. Use the stock of the square as a guide against the edge of your paper, and then draw a line along the blade. You'll be amazed at how effortlessly you can create a perfectly straight and square edge. Practice drawing lines at different points on the page. You can also use it to check if existing lines or corners are truly square by simply placing the corner of the try square against them. Don't be afraid to experiment with different materials too, like cardstock or thin wood. The tactile feedback you get from a well-made square is incredibly satisfying.

Ultimately, the enjoyment of using a try square comes from the satisfaction of precision. It's about taking a rough idea and giving it a sharp, defined form. It’s the quiet hum of confidence that comes from knowing your lines are straight and your corners are true. It’s the simple pleasure of making something look exactly the way you intended, with a little help from your square-shaped friend. So, next time you're embarking on a creative project, consider reaching for a try square. You might just find it’s the missing piece to unlocking a new level of accuracy and enjoyment in your craft.