14 Different Types of Marking Tools in the Workshop and their Function

Published: 30 Nov 2025

In this article, we will discuss Different types of Marking Tools in the Workshop and their Function. Marking tools are important in every workshop, whether you are working with wood, metal, or other materials. They help craftsmen measure, mark, and prepare materials for cutting, shaping, or joining. Let’s explore these tools simply and easily

Types of Marking Tools in the Workshop

Here are different types of marking tools commonly used in workshops.

1. Marking Table

A marking table is a flat, rigid surface, usually made of cast iron. It provides a stable reference plane for marking workpieces. Edges are precisely at 90°, helping align tools accurately. Workers use it for layout work, measurements, and checking parallelism.

2. Pencil

A workshop pencil is a simple but essential tool. It is used to draw lines on wood, metal, or plastic before cutting or drilling. Hard pencils make fine, visible lines that last longer. They are easy to use and allow precise marking for accurate workmanship.

3. Surface Plate

A surface plate is a precision flat platform made of cast iron, granite, or glass. It is used to mark, inspect, and measure the flatness of workpieces. The plate provides a reliable reference surface for all layout operations. Always handle with care to avoid scratches or dents.

4. Angle Plate

Angle plates are L-shaped tools used to hold workpieces vertically or at specific angles. They provide a reference plane for marking, inspection, and machining. Solid angle plates have fixed 90° surfaces, while adjustable ones allow different angles. Box angle plates allow turning the workpiece for multiple operations.

5. Hermaphrodite Caliper

Also called a Jenny Caliper, this tool has one pointed leg and one adjustable leg. It is used for marking parallel lines and finding the center of round workpieces. It is ideal for cylindrical or cast jobs. Ensure both legs are equal when marking.

6. Divider

A divider has two sharp points used to draw circles, arcs, and transfer measurements. It comes in rivet-type and spring-type models. Dividers are useful for dividing lines into equal parts. They are made of high carbon or mild steel for durability.

7. Scriber

A scriber is a hardened steel tool with a sharp point used to mark lines on metal surfaces. It can draw straight or angled lines with precision. Variants include straight, bent, adjustable, and offset scribers. Always handle carefully, as the points are very sharp.

8. Bevel Square

A bevel square is an adjustable tool used to mark or measure angles. Its blade rotates 360° and locks in place. It helps check and transfer angles accurately. Bevel squares are commonly used for oblique surfaces.

9. Trammel

A trammel is used for marking large circles or arcs that a divider cannot reach. It consists of a beam with a sliding head and adjustable points. Trammels are ideal for large radius layouts. They are usually marked in inches and millimeters.

10. V-Blocks

V-blocks are V-shaped supports used to hold cylindrical workpieces during marking or machining. They come in single groove, double groove, double-level, and matched pair types. Grade A blocks are highly accurate, while Grade B is for general use. U-clamps secure workpieces tightly in the V-block.

11. Protractor Head

A protractor head is used with a combination of squares to mark and measure angles. It helps lay out both acute and obtuse angles precisely. The tool often has a spirit level to ensure horizontal alignment.

12. Try Square

A try square is an L-shaped tool used to mark and check right angles. It ensures the edges and corners are straight. Try squares also to measure short distances along the blade.

13. Prick Punch

A Prick Punch is a small steel tool used to mark dots on workpieces. These dots guide drills and ensure accurate hole placement. The tip is ground at an angle of 30°–60°.

14. Mortise Gauge

A mortise gauge is used to mark parallel lines, especially for mortise and tenon joints in woodworking. It has adjustable pins to ensure consistent spacing. Mortise gauges help achieve precise joints.

Conclusion

In conclusion, in this article, we covered Marking Tools in the workshop and Their Functions in detail. I hope you found something helpful, and don’t forget to share it with your friends.