How Log Scribes Work, Comparing Two Types

[@brightbleu]

Morning Shawn - I never realized how interested I would be in a log scribe! I am even more in awe of your log cabin build because at some point my brain started to hurt. lol

[@johnhine8725]

Hello from W. MI! We have lived in this log house 22 years now and even though it is beautiful (especially after being cob blasted), it is built with milled logs. I always wanted a custom full log home. The scribing is just one of many talents involved, you are doing a super job. Thank you for taking us along.

[@robertsimard735]

Good morning Shawn. Built my log cabin 45 years ago with plain homemade scribes, no levels. Made all the mistakes you talk about. A Finnish couple were building their cabin down the lake from me. They also used plain scribes. His wife scribed all the logs by eye. Every log fitted perfectly, not a gap any where. Amazing craftsmanship. It's so nice to see the new scribes, so much better for us mere mortals. Wish I had them 45 years ago.

[@FMorgigno1]

Thank you for the scribe tutorial. I was curious about their use as well. Great articulation! It’s amazing that you can get that kind of precision work done out in the elements. Great video Shawn.

[@IdahoEagle77]

I have been wondering how to use this tool for my cabin build! Thank you, Shawn, for explaining this.

[@alexkasacous]

It is very unlikely that I'll ever get the chance to use such a tool, but I'm still very glad to see your explanation. Just imagine how many tools and inventions humans have created over time which are now forgotten.

[@lucindaayala4111]

You be surprised . You probably own a compass and never thought to use it for vinyl tile. Or fitting a flush shelf to an uneven wall. Or even for crafting. The system is basically the same. I learned a lot about carpenter scribes by watching this channel.

[@williebaer850]

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[@webbsuperiorbelties5800]

Half of the reason I watch is my interest in your log cabins! I like seeing how different folks do it and I can learn from their mistakes as well. Thanks for all you do!

[@danielhynes7336]

I’ve been watching both channels for years and finally I am going to comment and say I love the new format where My Self Reliance shows the quiet work and scenery, and this channel provides the “apprenticeship” to match all that work. I’ve learned a lot these past few years, Shawn and appreciate your hard work and willingness to share!

[@robertcolvin3182]

You're right. I'm never going to build a log cabin, but I sure do enjoy watching you work your land, plant your gardens, interact with Cali and even use your scribe. Thanks for sharing.

[@LivinInSim]

I had wondered about how you knew exactly where to scribe. Now I see that the placement has to do with the bubbles in the levelers being centered, yes. Both vertical and horizontal levels lines it up. It looked like a serious but mysterious business that I was darned if I could make out, but it's clear now, thanks. Keep the bubbles in the middle, lol!

[@waynetapp5226]

From a man that is not going to build a log cabin, ( I live in outback Australia ) the log scribe is really a very precise piece of equipment now that you have explained how to use it. stay safe and well.

[@oned6264]

One of the reasons I watch your channel is to see how these special tools work. Keep them coming. Thanks.

[@NFT2]

That last part where you showed how if you kept it level it would always stay vertical really brought the explanation together.

[@yvonnebailey9973]

Good afternoon (just) from the UK. Always enjoy your videos, they have so much content, on both channels. Cali makes me laugh. Take care.

[@jeanneduchene3306]

I'm still with you Shawn, I always look forward for more of your journey.

[@BlackArtBMX]

Good morning from Finland. Just letting you know I am sitting here with my Veritas scribe in hand, watching this video to learn the basics. I have cut the first two notches in my cabin with a scribe I made myself but decided to invest in a high quality one, as it will last me a couple lifetimes. Inspired by Dick Proenneke and Shawn James. Thank you.

[@thalleshoward3962]

We used that in junior high school back in the 70's in a class called house of construction. But I can't remember how to use one. Love your videos Shawn you're are a inspiration for log cabin builders around the world.

[@richardcorsillo9819]

Shawn, the way you titled this video was perfect and excellent for categorization purposes. When your audience/non-audience get stuck in a project, all the answers are "somewhere" in your videos, but it is pften difficult to locate... Love you man.

[@willacampbell9939]

Shawn, thanks for explaining the scribe. Even though only a few viewers will build a cabin, many of us are very detailed with our own crafts. I’ve watched you since the beginning and the reason is the high quality of your work. Everything fits. Always. Such an important life lesson. Thanks so much for sharing your journey.

[@brinos123]

I will never ever attempt what you are doing but that was a clear description....Far superior to ordinary TV because it's like you were explaining it to me personally...Good job.

[@vivienhill7934]

A very resolved outcome of all the skills and abilities acquired from before...an off grid homestead built to last forever. Love it

[@martyevans8162]

The mutual benefit to both you & your viewers makes both of your channels a win-win for all. An opportunity not often to be had in today’s world. The commitment, energy & enthusiasm you share in your journey towards “ultimate “ self reliance for yourself & the building of your off grid wilderness homestead & all that is involved is truly enjoyable. As always, a 👍 & stay safe.

[@Flowergurl2000]

Hi,Shawn! This cabin is wonderful. I love the logs being exposed.

[@jeffdorrity5609]

Thank you for showing your knowledge and wisdom for the use of the scribe. It will be handy when hanging cabinets … just not as technical. I love this channel and can only dream of “What If” I was back to a younger age. Thanks for sharing your dream. Missed not even seeing a glimpse of Cali in this one. I look forward to seeing what shenanigans she’s going to do next.

[@lucindaayala4111]

I am more acquainted with using a compass than a carpenter scribe. We use it for fitting flooring or flush fitting a cabinet or shelf to an uneven wall. I have to admit, your scribe is pretty cool. And you are well skilled in the use of it. Learning a lot. Thank you.

[@RyanStellaYT]

I likely will never build a log cabin, but have wondering this for a while! Great explanation. Throughout the videos I happened to have figured out exactly what you were doing with it, and after watching this, I was right!

[@janiceconnett3192]

Thank you so much for the scribing tutorial! I often wondered how it worked. I will most likely never use one, but my curiosity to understand the tools you use begged for this very video. You are so patient in teaching us all about outdoor life...taking the time to show the processes...and even the failures. Your work ethic is stellar and your teaching skills are remarkable.

[@Smalfry47]

At my age building a cabin is not on my bucket list but I love learning the how of doing it. You are a natural teacher…… oh to be young again and know what I know now!

[@coolgrandma4952]

I have said the same thing hundreds of times. Have a great day!

[@13prevailbushcraft]

I'll be starting my second log cabin in a few weeks. First time doing saddle notches.(Not full log scribe). Was checking out these scribes at Lee Valley but out of my price range. I'm hoping I can get away with a basic compass if I'm really careful. Especially with the logs being smaller. Guess I'll find out lol. Great video.

[@helmutkrahn9337]

Oh yes! Now I get - bloody brilliant! I saw the tool (noticed the levels), I saw you using it and I saw the end result. I watched, I replayed, but my brain just couldn't make the necessary connections. Now I get it and it's utter genius. So, thank you. PS. You're right: I won't be buiding a log cabin any time soon, in my mid-sixties, sometimes living out of my car in an Australian capital city but I have a curious mind (in both senses). Watching your videos is a happy meditation.

[@jeffe.9904]

Thanks Shawn, nothing like my first cup of coffee in the morning while watching one of your videos! Thanks again.

[@TheOffGridExperience]

Great info. I almost went this route with my current cabin build but felt I wasn't quite ready so I went with 2x8 "logs" This video helped answer some questions I had. I plan to be 1 of the 10 you mentioned who builds a cabin this way in the future. Take care!

[@rebeccamercer4160]

Well explained! You should be a teacher! I am serious! Books are great but actually seeing someone demonstrate it makes so much sense!! Maybe on down the road you can teach a class online! You are gifted! Thank you for all your videos ! They are so inspiring and interesting! I can’t turn the clock back but I can tell everyone I come in contact with about you and your videos! And I do that! God bless you and your family! Have a great week!

[@lory2622]

Very Insightful, a point I hadn’t thought of was what you will be looking at forever on the inside walls. I faced our floor to ceiling fireplace with natural stones, it was beautiful, huge and heavy but there were 6 stones in the whole thing that looked like faces. We ended up naming them and over the years guests and family came to know them too. Apple face, purple man, tongue man, split face and so on. I would rather *not* have had them in there.

[@MarcvanExel]

Clear explanation, I have been wondering about this several times but it's all clear now. Thanks and have a great week.

[@Indie_Outlaw]

Hey, Shawn! You’re my absolute favorite KZbin, and I love watching both Channels. I have been watching for a very, very long time! Have you drawn up any blueprints or sketches of what your vision is for the final “product”? It would be really exciting to see what kind of idea you have in mind and then to see you gradually work towards it and compare what it’s like in the end versus what you had in mind in the beginning. Anyways, thanks for being such a great guy, for sharing your life and wisdom with us. Cheers from USA 🇺🇸

[@ShawnJames1]

Thanks! I did upload a video showing a sketch of the layout, but it’s already changed in my head 😂

[@Indie_Outlaw]

@@ShawnJames1 that’s how it usually goes, right? 😂

[@0623kaboom]

@@ShawnJames1 as they say in the military ... no plan of action survives contact with the enemy ... in this case ... the enemy being the trees and time lol

[@jimmefish6855]

Before one fight, after being told by reporters his opponent’s plans for beating him, Iron Mike delivered the famous quote: Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.

[@andreboudreau6474]

@@ShawnJames1 Ha ha , the only thing you can be sure of when you have a plan…it’s that at some point, it WILL change.

[@frb821]

Shawn, albeit that you did mention that not many of your viewers will be building a log cabin, I for one was happy that you took the the time to explain the details on the log scribe. I have watched most if not all of your videos' starting with your original cabin before this project and have always been intrigued by the log scribe, never noticing the bubble level to make sure that the portion that you carve out makes for a nice level and snug fit accounting for the log taper.

[@SuperFuzzmonkey]

This is mind boggling. Engineering at its finest!

[@bobobrien8968]

Scribing is more intricate than I imagined. I wonder if-many builders don’t just eyeball the whole process and hope for the best.

[@davidmonnin2792]

After watching you use the scribe tool in the past and present, I have always wondered exactly how that tool worked. Thanks for taking the time to explain!

[@localsouptalks]

Even though building a log cabin isn’t part of my life plan, I appreciate your explanation of the log scribe tool. Thanks!

[@loupiscanis9449]

Thank you , Shawn . Entertainment and Education ,all in one package , Can't ask for more !

[@athollmcnicoll256]

Yes you are correct in your assumption I for one at my age would never consider building my own cabin and that is for more professionals but in saying that there are plenty of already built and well interior designed chalets springing up in places people love to hang out at and I for one would love to spend time in one. Cheers for now.

[@kevinolson1102]

@5:20 and following: "That's good for left-right, which is typical...move this down slightly...it's hard to move it slightly, which is what I don't like about this one...if they'd fix the - if they had some kind of calibrated nut here to make fine adjustments..." The PDF manual for the Veritas Log Scribe shows (in Figure 5) that you can move the cross level from the head of the scribe to one of the studs which secure the legs to fix the span between the scriber's points. In that case, the adjustment for the outer level vial (now pointing perpendicular to the length of the scriber's legs) is effectively "nulled" and will only read level when the scriber's tips (pencil and stylus) are in line vertically with each other. The inner vial (now more-or-less parallel with the scriber's legs) can be adjusted by tweaking the level housing around the stud to account for difference in point length (or possibly, angle), without messing up the other level vial.

[@frankrodriguez2332]

Shawn, you put out some of the most inspiring and magical video's on the internet alone with how to do insight. I know I speak for thousands and myself when I write we cannot wait to see the final outcome of this project. keep up the great work,stay safe out there in the woods and as always God Bless You and your family and Cali too!

[@leeprism9564]

Your building time lapse of your last cabin just popped up . Your new cabin makes that one look like a play house.

[@jakereiland]

I really appreciate the info about the actual process and tools that go into building the cabin as I intend to be one of those ten people to actually build one.

[@brendagervais5566]

Wow! Thank you for taking the extra time out of your business to explain and describe how the scribe works

[@murrayandru7527]

Thanks for sharing , A Good Lesson on scribing a Log ! Take Care !

[@coyoteloghomesinc.1381]

Hi Shawn, I recommend you invest in the rotating pen holders that use plotter pens for your Chambers Classic Scriber. This would save you a lot of time, as you do not need a levelling board and you can adjust the pen angle as you scribe and you don't have to worry about broken pencils. God Bless.

[@baddoopey]

Doesn’t a plotter pen work on gravity so can’t mark pointing up?

[@coyoteloghomesinc.1381]

@@baddoopey The pens that I use are pressurized. They work when pointed up. Fisher space pens also work great in various scribers.

[@fredcarani6764]

Just saw a video of a guy who built a log home in Alaska in 1965. To scribe he used a hand held marker with a piece of string tied to it. His left hand held the string and followed the contour of the lower log while the marker in his right hand marked the upper log. Simple and he got perfect saddle notches.

[@thewunder-lusters9644]

I couldn't figure out the bottom log thing either ... now it all makes sense! :) ... you're right, most of us will probably never build a log cabin, but this little instrument, opens up all sorts of possibilities we may never have considered. :)

[@KatMac5]

You are a great teacher! I enjoy your pace and willingness to share your knowledge and experience.

[@4316rodney]

This is EXACTLY the kind of video I love. I’m probably one of the 10 people 😌 ….maybe the 11th. I worked on a log house one time ages ago but we just used a normal scribe without levels…eye balled it. Worked ok. I didn’t even know these existed…thanks!

[@johntatum8088]

Your cabin will be awesome...hope you make it before the worst of the winter weather arrives.

[@GreenhavenFarmandHomestead]

Thanks Shawn, I'm clearing land and using the trees for all our construction projects. I will definitely be picking up a scribe. I appreciate the detailed explanation.

[@thizizliz]

You're right. It is interesting even to those of us who will not be building a log structure. The complexity of the second scribe is fascinating.

[@trisho.8331]

Loved your explanation of scribing Shawn. Way back in the day we called them protractors in Geometry class, except they didn’t have attached pencils that needed sharpening then. Was happy to learn I hadn’t forgotten the fundamentals and therefore able to understand the premise behind your method. Another great educational video for more than cabin builders. All the best and hugs to Cali and your family as always. No matter the content, you always impress. 🙏🏻👏

[@dandaniels4558]

I'm glad others asked how you use the scribes.i was wondering to and no I'm not going to be building anything but it's just interesting to know how you do it. I was like why is he going so slow across the logs but now I get it.your concentrating on keeping the scribe level as you go.

[@judestewart3955]

Thank you Shawn, was curious about how the scribe worked.

[@yvonnemcmahan9037]

Very informative tutorial. I will never build or have a log cabin, but, I love that you take me along as you build yours. I would love to have a small log cabin, but, I am disabled. Thank you so much.

[@arthenry498]

FANTASTIC!! I have been observing your use of the calipers and NOW, I understand. Thanks for the excellent lesson!! Now it makes sense, even to me!! I was positive you were not leaving any thing to chance, but now I know.

[@oldsmokeeater7075]

Thanks for the info on the scribe. Wow even when your tired you got to be sure both level bubbles are correct. Stay safe and be careful, Blessing for you and your family.

[@mareknosek9377]

Thank you very much for taking time to discuss and explain how you scrib.

[@OdeeOz]

*While it is time consuming to use that tool to **_trace_** the patterns of the logs. The end result is well worth the time taken.* 👍👏😀

[@name-ey5it]

Good morning Shawn is getting colder up there, we been pretty lucky here not to much snow here. You are doing very good on your home,

[@sovereigns1grace]

I've always understood the concept of the device but I did not realize it had bubble levels to keep it plumb. I thought you just had to be very careful eyeballing it. Thanks so much for showing us. I do hope to use this technique for a mini build!

[@chairmanmike5858]

Hi, I'm in the process of collecting lodgepole pine for my cabin build. The cabin will be 12'x12' and more for the grandkids to sleep in. My logs will not be "Full Scribe" as the logs are not as big. I got the Veritas scribe. Thanks for the inspiration and learning!

[@lance5299]

I'm really glad that you went into some detail about it. It seems relatively straight forward but I had assumed there was more to the process. Your comments toward the end about sinking the log a bit further in to keep the structure level was eye opening. Seems to me that the success of the cabin lies with the experience of the builder at least on bigger structures like this.

[@young-soonkim6730]

Good Tuesday Shawn & Cali🐕! That scribes reminded me of the geometry compass usd in math classes at the school. 👍🏞🏡

[@jeanettec6212]

Wow, this is above me, but just goes to show how much you have learned from cabin building. Keep safe

[@DustyTrailCFDA]

Thanks for doing this. Your right, I'm not planning on a cabin build but wondered how that process worked.

[@vitellaj]

I may never build a cabin but the technique to transfer a pattern will be used for many things. Thank you

[@larrymaxwell5535]

We can't see the bubbles on the level, but you've explained it perfectly! Thanks for sharing!

[@kevinharding2099]

I’ll never build a log cabin, but I found this very helpful to better understand what I am watching. It is important to understand your strategies to better appreciate the complexity of the build. I am assuming that you want to avoid wide chinking and benefit from the R value of larger logs with this full scribe technique, but it certainly appears to be labor intensive. I suppose if you really dislike chinking this method is more desirable.

[@doone5303]

I've never used 1 but from watching you use it I just knew what the levels were for

[@boatfreak207]

Hi Shawn, I know you've talked about the cabin size a little, but how does this cabin compare to the previous one? It looks larger and a more square footprint. Also, can you talk about the planned layout, I think you mentioned in a previous video that the stove will be more centralized. I won't likely be building a cabin, but I like the scribe tutorial, you never know when that knowledge can be used else where. Currently I am working on a small boat. I like how the cabin is starting to take shape, the joints look beautiful. Keep up the great work, on the cabin, the videography, and a gratuitous scratch'n for Cali's fun whimsy in the videos! She always brings a smile. Thank you

[@Caennuck]

I was definitely curious how you were scribing the logs, so thanks very much for making this video!

[@antond2154]

Good morning Shawn , here’s an idea for you, you could use a blue dye to mark where you’re scribing and you wouldn’t need the pencil , just a regular steel scriber . You would be able to see the scribe clearly using a dye , they sell it in spray cans too, same one machinists use , it’s called dyekem .

[@rawwillpower4408]

Just here for a comment to support my favorite youtuber

[@ec6933]

Actually I've been wondering how to use that tool for the last two weeks because I'd like to build a cabin myself and that was one of the things I didn't know how to work and was really discouraged about so please keep showing how to do this It looks very complicated

[@0623kaboom]

you can do a botch version to practice with with a pair of LONG chopsticks and a ruler ... the chopsticks are placed in a v shape and the ruler goes between so it makes a bar like a capital A ...across them ... the ruler sets your gap and then you eyeball up and down and flat to the point of the angle .. sure it's not as precise BUT it will allow you to get the idea in your head .... you can also use a protractor from your kids school geometry kit ... the scribe doesnt just work on logs either ... installing a countertop on a wonky wall ... is great for them ... you match the wall to the counter top then ... and of course many other uses to get things to flush mount to each other . as with shawns troubles getting a marker to work in all weather and at any angle is not easy ... sadly crayons are best from my experience BUT they shrink FAST and so require a spring loaded feed to keep them at the horizontal level ... while you watch to keep it at the vertical level . the idea behind the ga is it is a fraction larger than the largest gap you need to fit to ... that way the complete surface will be fixed to that point and adjusted correctly all along the line of the scribe

[@timkeagy4094]

Thanks Shawn, I'm glad you explained this procedure of your build.

[@v.r.-h.1967]

Thanks, now I understand how to use such an instrument. You are a good teacher.

[@joebacarella2829]

I heard you say, if I missed a big knot at eye level it would drive me crazy for years. I would have to take the time to chop and feather all those inner knots down, at least the ones visible, or I would be staring at every one of them. I wouldn`t care if it was after it was built, if I had to. I would also have to do the mesh and mortar finish, I love that look, nice and clean. Waist high already, the big logs really stack up quick, they sure are fitting together nicely, with that scribing method for sure, very nice.

[@Go4Corvette]

Thanks for taking the time to show how us how this works Shawn

[@mattokeefe691]

I am loving your cabin build Shawn. I appreciate how much work it is to share. Thank you. Learning a lot on this one

[@kiwdwks]

I actually have that scribe. I haven't really found a good use of it. Thanks for making it clear how it works.

[@timofeyserikof8397]

When you start scribing a log, you need to know the diameter of the next log in advance. And lifting or lowering one of the ends of the log will avoid making an unreasonably deep longitudinal groove (as in your case), and will save a lot of energy, since cutting a long groove on a log is a high-cost physical process. And one more clarification: - on a log with a diameter of 30-35cm. the width of the long groove should not exceed 12-14 cm, and the depth should be approximately 3-3.5 cm.

[@TheMaineWoods]

I am one of the ten that actually applies what i learn from you

[@darrellhendricks4778]

Thanks, my many years in floor covering especially installing vinyl stair treads used the Scribe technology.

[@FearlessCrusader100]

Im hoping in a few years to build a cabin when I am out of school, thank you for going through the effort of explaining how your tools work and your processes. It really helps! It would be cool if you could also give a reading list of good books for an aspiring woodland carpenter to get good basics from as well!

[@yvobalcer]

After building your estate on your property, you should consider writing a book on the various tools you used to build your cabin. This is a lost art. Best of luck.

[@xXabstractXx]

My friend. I will most certainly be building a cabin because of you.

[@darthgbc363]

That's exactly how I thought a log scriber worked. Great explanation.

[@tommychew6544]

Describing this is great! It answers all the questions I had in my mind of how it worked, Thank You for doing it!

[@westend3019]

It must feel good to gain that wall height with just a few courses of logs. Congrats!

[@TheJimcrooks800]

That was informative and helpful - but you're right - few of us will use that bit of learning but we do like to know! Thanks for explaining it. The logs will look great fitting so snugly together.

[@Caoucaren]

My goodness, it’s coming along, it’s amazing how fast you work. Are you doing it all alone? I bet your wife helps behind the scenes. You kinda mentioned it when you said you cleared the greenhouse. I think you said we. Truly amazing.

[@HummingbirdJa]

Hello Shawn and Cali, I've wondered what that instrument really does, and why it always seems to be so important in your buildings. Now I got schooled, I have a better understanding of why it is never far away, and why you always have it on hand, Thank you. UK

[@0623kaboom]

think of it like this ... install flooring in your home and you need to make an odd shape to fit around a door jamb ... that's exactly what he is doing ... just with logs

[@Cornfed41]

Thank you. You did a great job teaching and explaining how this tool is used.

[@eliinthewolverinestate6729]

Guess I am one of those 10. I will be putting building post and beam timber framing in my masonry earthship. I built a log cabin for a customer last winter. Due to change in building codes it will be last one I build in southern MI. The logs now have to be cut and insulation added in center of them. Not to say I won't build a few in the upper peninsula as codes are different. I will be putting log accents on my sister's house too.