Why doesn't every woodworker have these cheap tools?

[@MWAWoodworks]

✅ HOW TO SUPPORT MY CHANNEL SUBSCRIBE : kzbin.info JOIN my Patreon community: patreon.com/MWAWoodworks GET project plans: bit.ly/download-project-plans ✅ TOOLS AND SUPPLIES IN THIS VIDEO: Amana Countersink Bit - amzn.to/3VCZUib Pica Dry Mechanical Pencil - amzn.to/3VfMwAJ Pentel Graph Gear 1000 - amzn.to/3gDM5Bf FastCap Track Racks - tsoproducts.com/organization-storage/fastcap-track-rack/?ref=MWAWW Magenetizer/Demagnetizer - amzn.to/3gGcK04 Thread Checker (metric/inch) - amzn.to/3gNlMID FastCap Lefty/Rigty (Inch) tape measure - amzn.to/3VvuIln FastCap Lefty/Righty (Metric) tape measure - amzn.to/3UnZbjW FastCap 12’ (Metric/Inch) tape measure - amzn.to/3ASi33m FastCap Flatback 12’ (Metric/Inch) tape measure - amzn.to/3EOOroC Vix Bit Self Centering Drill Bit Set - amzn.to/3XD6o2j 1-2-3 Blocks - amzn.to/3UfYn08 iGaging Set Up Blocks (set) - amzn.to/3F9LcJW Stanley 12’ Tape measure - amzn.to/3uenR3n FastCap Quad Edge Banding Trimmer - amzn.to/3gLgUnw Wera Ratcheting Screwdriver - amzn.to/3u8BwJt *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

[@phoppydizzle1999]

My sister recently got me a machinist ruler for my birthday. Its a solid metal ruler but the measurements start exactly at the end of the ruler, without the little gap. Its helped me become much more accurate in my measurements and for keeping things square!

[@MWAWoodworks]

Yeah machinist squares are good for several things in a shop. I have a small 4 inch one that I use all the time

[@meperson]

@@MWAWoodworks I think he is taking about the ruler - I have a set that starts from the edge and they are great.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Ah yeah I can't read so good 🤣

[@meperson]

I really appreciate your honesty in this video. Too many folks just peddle the tools they didn't use or don't say anything negative.

[@MWAWoodworks]

I try to do my best to show what I like and don't really like!

[@terrynunya7444]

Honestly I was thinking FastCap paid for the video.

[@oe4904]

​@@terrynunya7444If they worth recommending, who cares. Thats the sharp point...

[@watermain48]

The Amana countersink tool, Pentel Graph Gear pencils and the Fastcap tape measures are all great tools. Thanks for showing them off.

[@barrettbryan8905]

De-magnatizer comes in handy for drills or bits that start to accumulate metal shavings

[@ryannichols732]

This might be the first one of these videos where I actually want every item!

[@Pandion8131]

If you took a pencil-on-paper drafting class, you learned to spin the pencil to keep a fine, consistent line. You are effectively sharpening the lead as you’re drawing.

[@GregPucelDDS]

Indeed and its still a habit

[@wulf67]

If you stayed in that class for longer than seven minutes you would also know that you still have to advance your lead, or if using a wooden pencil, SHARPEN IT to keep the lead exposed from the wood.

[@Rebel9668]

I remember those days, lol. 2H pencils, that pale green paper, the T square...Damn, I'm old, LOL!

[@AxGryndr]

Or you can up your game and buy a drafting mechanical pencil, like the Kuru Toga, that has this functionality built in.

[@andrewknots]

I find a silicone pastry mat super useful for a glue station. Once the glue has dried, it pops right off

[@bingmattson8685]

Wax paper is cheaper.

[@peterlaughlin930]

Same thing I use

[@bretwhitten7038]

@@bingmattson8685 not in the long run, pay $5 once or pay $2 every couple months

[@richardrodgers1883]

Yep, I used wax paper for a long time, but the glue still sticks to it and if you have a glue line over it you get wax paper stuck to the glue line and have scrape or sand it off and that wastes a lot of time compared to using the silicone mat that the glue just won't stick to at all.

[@63Ducati1]

I guess nobody has had drafting training like us old guys had. When you drag your pencil across the paper (or wood) you turn it so that it takes a bit of lead off all around leaving a sharp point just like the one you started with. Can't do that with a carpenter pencil, but carpenters seemingly don't pay any attention to the lines anyway. Any pencil will last longer if you use it properly.

[@dougprentice1363]

Yep, I started out as a drafter, before cad. Who knows what I spent on my mechanical pencils, a lot. I got these pencils after stumpy nubs introducing them. They are by far the best I've used. If people are still breaking lead, they sell them in all different sizes. I like .7 mm. The most. But I bought all the sizes. They are very reasonably priced.

[@jonathanzj620]

Or you buy a Kura toga machine pencil from Japan and just let it do it for you

[@joelmartin2549]

Thanks that’s never occurred to me.

[@Bertdevries-pn4fs]

​@@dougprentice1363😊

[@chrisdzisiak7540]

Yep , just Learn to us a pencil. This is a lost art , it really works !

[@GregNickoloff]

The best thing about the FastCap tapes is that they're all very, very consistent from one to another. They are dead-on precise. I always had trouble finding that in other brands and mixing brands. They make "self-stick" versions for table saw and miter saw fences and they even a tape measure with a blank side that you can write on with a pencil so you can use it like a story stick too.

[@paint1956]

I have both the Pica and Pentel pencils, both have their place. The pica works best for initial rough layout and it has multiple lead colors for dark woods . And I deify you to break it on rough lumber. The pentel is suited better for fine layout lines for precision work on smooth lumber.

[@MWAWoodworks]

I agree pica is perfect for carpentry and rough layout. I have one that I put white lead in so I can mark on walnut.

[@petcatznz]

The forth be with you.

[@scottyee707]

they have a pica fine dry now 0.9mm

[@charlesschmitt9555]

I love the track rack. I have one piece of advice for you is to turn them opposite from the way they are in this video. From experience my silicone track moved where it rested on the track rack. Put the silicone facing upwards where the weight rests on the aluminum instead of the silicone. Keep the great videos coming.

[@timmyers763]

I have done the same thing. Let the weight rest on the aluminum instead of the silicone

[@warrensmith2902]

Protect the silicone. Nothing worse than to come out to the shop, and when you pull out your tracks to watch the zero clearance strip snake onto the floor.

[@MrLuckybug]

I wonder if the weight of the tracks on the garage door will affect the door operation? I know the spring is calibrated to the weight of the door and tracks are not light.

[@wallacegrommet9343]

Cut to the line! It’s thickness doesn’t matter

[@GenosMadlab]

😂 Everyone needs more than 50 tape measures. Love your channel.

[@PropPlanePat]

One year later and still helpful! Straight to Amazon for the Flatback tape measure :)

[@ottoranking]

I would add a digital caliper to your very informative list. You can get a good one for less than $10. They have a large digital screen, measure inside and outside diameter and depth. I appreciate the ability to convert inch and millimeter just by pressing a button. The measurement range is from 0-to 6". Calipers in the under $20 can even give you fractions, which allows you convert from inches to fractions to millimeters at the press of a button. I prefer the plastic/carbon fabric ones as they are non-conductive, inexpensive and very durable. For woodworking and home use they are extremely accurate.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Yes! In fact I actually did a previous tool video which included my digital calipers 😃

[@jeremyhewitt1952]

Tape measure with a built-in tape measure... Genius!

[@MWAWoodworks]

🙌

[@andreseguin5583]

Amazon must love you, I just ordered half the stuff you are talking about. Great video Thanks

[@rbrown2925]

Me thinks it's the other way around...

[@coloradomountainman8659]

For a pencil: Eberhard Faber #2. Period. Best tape measure (for me): Stanley Classic 25'. Hands down most practical. Been using the Vix Bits for 40 years and wouldn't be without.

[@shannonsew5120]

I have searched for years for a left handed tape. Thx u. I can’t wait to get one

[@justgoballistic]

I bought one from Lee Valley in 1975

[@MichaelJohnson-lx2dl]

My preferred tape measure is from Lee Valley Tools. It's called the Blindman's Tape. I prefer the right to left version to use on my table saw, router, bandsaw, miter saw, drill press. You get the idea. I'm not a contractor just a DIY guy so this 12 foot tape is the perfect size. This tape is 1 inch wide so it's better that the Stanley that's only 1/2 an inch wide and you can only get in left to right. I've tried some of the Fastcap tapes and for me they just don't hold up to use. Thanks for all the info in this video. I've wondered about the PICA pencil and you confirmed what I assumed. I use .5 lead but just some cheep mechanicals, I think I'll try the fancy Pentel you use. People who think the size of the mark doesn't matter usually aren't making furniture or boxes or other DIY projects that need this kind of precision. A contractor's margin of error is a lot larger than a cabinet maker's. For the future, how about a comparison between the igaging set up blocks and something like the Kreg set up bars? Thanks for your suggestions.

[@egbluesuede1220]

I learned drafting many years ago before computer aided design. You're supposed to rotate the pencil when you draw a line so the width stays consistent as you draw. Same goes for the Pica.

[@TheIdeasGuy]

You are absolutely correct but I also agree with old mate about the 0.5mm mechanical pencil for workshop use. I use a variant of the Pica pencil at work (on site carpenter) but I still prefer my super fine lead mechanical pencil for the dainty little projects I work on at home.

[@barniclebill3008]

I was a draftsman also in the 60s and 70s. We call the folks who dont know to properly use a pencil. “Wood butchers”

[@Goodellsam]

Yes, have an AA in Architecture and Construction Tech. Cad wasn't being taught around here then. I never used it except for myself. I became a medic the law enforcement.

[@SAMUELPEREZ-yc8uq]

Great, keep this frequent. I learned two things today. You are a trusted mentor. Thank you.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@bobt2522]

I have a .5mm and a .9mm Graphgear pencil. They are both great! I ordered an Amana countersink bit about an hour before I watched this video. I have been wanting one for a while.

[@MWAWoodworks]

It's a great drill bit!

[@halsonger1317]

I use the 1-2-3 block in conjunction with a fence clamp for a use-anywhere stop block. It works on my drill press fence, router fence, table saw fence, etc. since you can rotate it to the optimal height for the particular fence. The pair works great when doing repeatable cuts with my miter gauge on my table saw since I can set my fence to 1 inch more than what I want the cut piece to be, then register the end of the board to the 1-2-3 block .

[@MWAWoodworks]

Nice yeah I think a stop block is a great use for them!

[@Cecil_X]

I have gone metric. I have 25x50x75 blocks. I use them often, but generally in conjunction with my I-gauging metric setup block set. I also purchased the fastcap metric tape measures (regular and flatback), largely because that is the only metric brand I could find in the US. I also use calipers often in the wood shop.

[@TheBrewjo]

As a life long metric user, seeing an imperial tape measure up close is daunting. Hope you're well and having fun sliding the decimal place around for unit conversions.

[@AdamsLeatherWorks]

Those Pica (lead holders) and even mechanical pencils work better if you slowly rotate the pencil as you mark your line. So instead of wearing a flat tip in one spot as you make your mark, it sharpens itself while you draw your lines if you rotate it while drawing. Learned that in drafting class back in high school (a long time ago…).

[@MWAWoodworks]

I don't know if I'm coordinated enough for that 😆🤣

[@woodandwheelz]

@@MWAWoodworks Even if you rotate the Pica pencil, the point will still widen as it dulls. Rotating the Pentel will allow the lead to wear evenly and not create a 'point' on one side of the lead as you write/draw with it. I was taught this in mechanical drawing in high school (c/o '86).

[@dougw2340]

That’s an old drafting trick we were taught with those original mechanical pencils they had in the 70’s

[@philipmorey2129]

@@woodandwheelz you all should look at the Uni Kuru Toga, everytime you put down the lead it rotates, problem solved

[@sunalwaysshinesonTVs]

Pro tip; if you use multiple tapes, make sure to check they are all accurate to each other (and all your other go-to measuring tools).

[@beyondutility]

Bought one of those pencils straight after watching the video! I have one where the tip retracts but so does the lead so you have to push it out each time. This looks great. Thank you.

[@fredrickdavenport1611]

You de magnetize when working on electronics.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Agreed! However I wouldn't be using a #2 philips head screwdriver on my electronics. I have a whole other set of much smaller specialized tools for working on computers/circuit boards which I would never magnetize to begin with so there would be no need to demagnetize them.

[@fredrickdavenport1611]

@@MWAWoodworks I get it I have tools for wood working different tools for electronics and different again for automotive work. Was just answering your statement for some who might not know why a de magnetizer lol be safe.

[@BenNawrath]

Igaging also makes a 4" and 6" double square set (just under 40 bucks) that's really nice. Overall, their setup/layout tools are super good value! I also revently grabbed a set of Uncle Bill's splinter tweezers. Game changer.

[@David-hm9ic]

The 6" double square is used almost every time I do anything in the shop. Need to get a 4" one.

[@howler5000]

This is one of the best Xmas lists I’ve seen this year!

[@MWAWoodworks]

Ha wow! Thanks! 😁

[@wayneeshelor639]

Hypermarket in Quito, Ecuador has a couple of 6 meter tapes for under $2 that seem to work fine. Since people everywhere seem to think borrowing a tape measures ok, these are perfect. They also sell a magnetized ash tray/screw collector that magnetizes screwdrivers easily

[@KeithOlson]

FWIW, a 'flat 1.8 mm x 0.9mm exam mechanical pencil' [good search term] is a *GREAT* sub for a standard mechanical pencil, as the rectangular lead gives it a lot more strength, and can be easily kept to a sharp wedge with just a bit of sandpaper stuck to the edge of your workbench. They are also cheap as chips and available everywhere.

[@TomBaier]

This might be the best youtube video of all time. Thank you so much.

[@BigJonkulous]

I second the graph gear. I have the Pica Dry, but reach for the Pentel constantly as the lead is always nice and crisp.

[@greymane4030]

I have to agree with you on the Pica, I saw a KZbin clip where they guy called it a workshop essential, I bought one and my experience was the same as yours/ It dulls quickly and even sharpening the thing is a chore. I went back to my mechanical pencil.

[@brianhall9019]

I’ve been subscribed to your channel for a while now. I enjoy your wit and delivery. I’ve started going back through your old stuff and stumbled across this video. I know the demo with the Kreg hinge jig was to emphasize the Vix bits, but are you aware of the two screw pilot holes that are under the cage when you remove it from the base? Just have a second drill set up with a 1/16” bit set to appropriate depth and you don’t have to worry about lining up your hinge out of square. If you knew this great, but if any of your followers didn’t know this then great also. 😊

[@MWAWoodworks]

Yep that's true. Thanks for pointinging that out.

[@HarrisonFord11]

Always a good day when you upload. I’ve said it before but I stand by it. Your quality and skill is right there with bourbon moth, Jay Bates and TWW and I’m sure one day you’ll have that type of following.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Thanks for the kind words and high praise!

[@mjac8373]

Just what the doctor ordered. Thanks for posting, !!

[@mailbox4286]

Nice to see you master the fourth.

[@stevenmasterson5871]

Matt, Another great and informative video. I built my miter station from your video. I noticed in this video that you built a miter saw hood. Would be interested to see an update video to your miter saw station showing the build and functionality of the miter saw hood and also the shop towel holder.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Thanks Steven! I'll be sure to include those updates in my next shop tour video. So many new things in the shop this year!

[@gregorymacneil2836]

Getting a consistent line out of a pencil (any pencil) is as simple as rolling the pencil in your hand as you make the line - that’s the second skill taught in any traditional drafting class. The first skill is how to stretch paper and hold it in place with four pieces of masking tape. I own two of the pica pencils - they offer leads that can mark on wet wood and other materials that regular graphite leads do not. It’s the versatility of the lead types they offer and not the mechanical action of the pencil that makes them so useful. They are probably not needed in a cabinet shop where the wood is surfaced and dry. Simple wooden pencils can be purchased in bulk complete with spare erasers and a sharpener at Costco during back to school season. In the right hands that kit is far cheaper and more versatile than a collection of mechanical pencils. I keep a kit in my truck and shop - I never run out of pencils before the next back to school season. The trick with all pencils is not to drop them.

[@MWAWoodworks]

I love the white lead for the Pica. Great for marking up walnut before cutting it to rough parts.

[@w9jim]

I use a magnet out of an old computer hard drive to magnetize my tools. Works very well. Those HDD magnets are very strong.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Oh wow I think I about 100 old hard drives I just found a use for 😂

[@tubeamprepairs]

Magnets from mechanical hard drives are the best. The reason you were unable to demagnetize your screwdriver was technique. To demagnetize, connect the screwdriver to the magnet and move it around a little VERY slowly. Then, move the screwdriver away VERY slowly. Any sudden movement will cause the screwdriver to retain magnetism. To magnetize, move the screwdriver around a little on the magnet, and then SNATCH it away. That’s all it takes. Just use a hard drive magnet. You don’t need to buy the tool.

[@matthewshannon6946]

Vix bits are an absolute necessity!

[@G.I.JeffsWorkbench]

Try the Crescent “Nites Eyes” 8’ tape measure & you’ll never go back. The 8’ tape is the perfect size for furniture making & fits easily in your apron pocket. If you need a longer tape, they also make a 16’ version. Both are very tough & keep you from hauling around more tape than you need. The “Nite Eyes” feature was a game-changer for me.

[@MWAWoodworks]

I have the 25' Nite Eye and its nice. Not sure I'd ever need glow in the dark in my shop, but it's great for outdoor projects.

[@G.I.JeffsWorkbench]

@@MWAWoodworks I like the “Night Eye” feature since the marks are easy to read, probably since it offers a bold color contrast with most species of wood. I never benefit from (or use) the glow in the dark feature. It’s the large numbers, compact size (8’) & contrasting color between the tape & stock that have made this measure a game-changer for me.

[@codykenison6581]

I love your videos this one is no exception. I definitely think this should become a regular video segment. A tool I use in my shop all the time is the dewalt 20v router

[@MWAWoodworks]

And Ive got that router 😁

[@tommanseau6277]

The handiest set up tools I have are Lee Valley Veritas 1 1/2 inch pocket layout square and Imperial layout block. Both have very common fractions built right into the depth, width etc of each of these consisting of 1/8", 1/4", 1/2", 3/4", the block has a 1", and layout square a 1 1/2" offset. It makes layout and setup so easy. I leave them either in an apron pocket or more often right on top of the table saw fence. Yes, they are tiny. But want to set up your tablesaw blade to 45 degrees? It's perfect as it fits under the teeth. And the best part? You can get both at just under $20 currently.

[@YouTuber-mc2el]

I use the Graphgear pencils and have one gripe about them. I wear an apron and store the pencil in the chest pocket. When I grab it and depress the plunger to project the writing tip it also advances the lead which was where I wanted it when I stored it. Aggravating!

[@toddtangen6750]

Re: pencils; a technique I learned in drafting class is to always roll the pencil when making a line. This wears the lead evenly, keeping your line a more consistent thickness and keeping the lead sharp.

[@Mr.redacted.]

If you'rre looking or a pocket tape measure, Stanley makes a 10 footer that is 2" x 2" x 1/2".

[@MWAWoodworks]

I'm done buying tape measures, I have a problem..... that's a lie, I'm looking at the 10 footer now 🤣🤣🤣

[@ehRalph]

I’ve been using pentel twist erase mechanical pencils for mor than 10 years. It has a rubberized grip, it clicks and stores several extra leads, and has a long vinyl erasure that cranks out of the back end. They come into various lead sizes (I prefer .9mm HB). Also, get a pentel polymer erasure for cleanly removing marks on wood- or when quickly drawing up plans, they are amazing.

[@Rebel9668]

I don't have stuff like the countersink tool because I don't need them, lol. Simple as that. Most everyone that recommends them seem to always be in a big hurry for some reason. I find woodworking to be relaxing and a way to pass my time. Like right now, I'm in the process of building a punched tin door pie safe and I've probably been working on it off and on for about 2 weeks now and I've got nothing but time on my hands....and sometimes stain, but the Lava soap gets rid of that well enough.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Glad to hear it! But I can't say the majority of my audience has nothing but time on their hands 😀 most appreciate the efficiency!

[@danbeeson9564]

I use a pica pencil and I absolutely love it. However, I do construction and finish carpentry on the field more than my shop. The holster is fantastic because I never loose my pencil anymore or have to go digging in my pocket for it. There are leds for it available in various colors too for marking different materials. There is at least one other brand I’ve seen that has the pencil sharpener in the side of the holster which is more convenient.

[@ibtarnine]

The thicker mechanical pencils are useful when dealing with extremely rough wood or plywood, where 0.5mm lead will simply not work. It's great if you only work with smooth, flat surfaces, but not all of us do.

[@fredjacques2979]

Thanks for the honesty. All too often products are pushed without all the facts

[@mr.redacted1441]

Brother, you gotta get a Komelon Self Lock tape measure. They come in all lengths. My favorite for years and very inexpensive. Great video thanks!

[@MWAWoodworks]

I have one now! It's in my truck. I love that thing!

[@johnvesperman1530]

I got my magnetizer at Wal-Mart for about $5. One on the bench and one in my carry bag. Magnetism fades with time and use, so having one in my bag to refresh my drivers is a good thing.

[@donpantolonez]

I’ve a small but powerful magnet that I ripped from an old key holder. Put it on your screwdriver and it’s instantly magnetizes, pull it of and it’s demagnetized. It’s held on to my ratchet screwdriver over 10 years.

[@sterlinghein]

I discovered a use today for demagnetization. When you drill into metal; you often get metal ‘sawdust’ that sticks to the drill bit. Would have loved to have been able to demagnetize the bit today to drop those off.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Was the bit magnetized to begin with?

[@sterlinghein]

@@MWAWoodworks No, it wasn’t. But the drill bit had a hex end which I put into my Festool centrotec chuck, which is magnetized. So maybe the chuck imparted a charge to the bit.

[@KalatSaar]

first the thing with the Pen .. You are comparing Apples with Plums ... the first one has a long metal tube .. this is a "Deep hole marker" ... so if you have to mark the Drilling hole behind/through a thick Board or so ... the second one is a normal Pencil .. to draw lines at a ruler .. two different tools for two different situations ... !!!!

[@YesiPleb]

I live in the UK and we use metric and imperial, choosing the one most suited to the job in hand. It's very hard to get hold of a tape measure over here that has one system marked on both sides and definitely not got them written upside down as we don't need it - we went to school and received an education allowing us to read numbers from all angles.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Good for you! 😀

[@terryaugsburger857]

My favorite ratcheting screwdriver is the Kobalt 13-Piece Plastic Handle Magnetic Ratcheting Assorted Multi-bit Screwdriver Set, Model 15000. Includes 12 bits including straight, Philips, torx, and hex. The best part is that it has a collar grip that if you hold it will turn the bit at double rotation. You can also hold the handle stationary and turn the collar to rotate the bit, giving more stability like trying to start a screw without a pilot hole.

[@GraemePayne1967Marine]

The finer graduations on a tape (like 1/32") gives you better PRECISION. The ACCURACY is a function of the tape manufacture and printing, and possibly the current temperature. Picking nits, yes - but calibration of measuring instruments was part of my professional life for a long time.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Hahaha thanks for setting me straight 😅

[@sklikizos]

Late to the party but here's my input: skip the thread checker! Instead, get the 60 piece imperial/metric tap and die set from harbor freight. It's under 30 bucks when it goes on sale, and yeah yeah I know you should spend more money on nice taps and dies but here's the thing - this is going to be your beater set. Keep using each component until it breaks (hopefully not in a hole) and replace the busted taps with a higher quality version as needed. That way you have the best of both worlds: a functional tool instead of a one-trick pony, and a way to check/cleanout junky bolts/nuts.

[@edwardmedina1236]

The pentel mechanical pencil comes in .3, .5 or .7. I use the .5 as shown in your video, but for those with a heavy touch they can go with the .7 to give them that extra strength. Also there are different types of leads for those pencils, 2B, B, HB & 2H (I know because I also use them for drawing). Anyway, the 2B is the softest lead (the darkest too) while the 2H is the Hardest of these (also the lightest of these). So if someone has a heavy hand they can get a .7 pencil and buy .7 2H leads for that pencil to give the best chance.

[@a9ball1]

Couple comments, I liked the video so much I subscribed. I've been using a Fastcap tape for years but now I'm trying to find a good one for a person with limited vision, any ideas? I also have the thread checker like yours and it has come in handy so many times. I highly recommend it! That set of set-up blocks is the best I've found and I've been woodworking since 1974. I would like to see more like this from you.

[@genecarden780]

Search for “ blind man’s tape” I dont remember who makes them

[@craftedbykvg4649]

On your issue with the Pica pencil, all you have to do is buy harder lead. That solved the issue for me, and I'll never go back to a mechanical pencil. One drop of a mechanical pencil that causes the tip to bend, and you're back to Amazon buying more.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Yeah I just used the Pica with the lead it came with

[@byfordbarnard2264]

Tool and die maker, I’ve used the 1,2,3 blocks for years. Like this video

[@MWAWoodworks]

Yeah that's the wheelhouse of that tool for sure!

[@MCsCreations]

Fantastic tips, Matt! Thanks! 😃 Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊

[@MWAWoodworks]

Thanks 👍

[@bjorne46]

Cool stuff, the track storage looks interesting.Though you're limited to working with the door closed when fastened to the door.

[@greyspot00]

I never upgraded to the narking knife, but buying a huge pack of cheap .5 mm mechanical pencils and leaving them EVERYWHERE has worked for me. If I had just one nice pencil or marking knife, I'd never be able to locate it when I need it.

[@MWAWoodworks]

That was my strategy with tape measures 🤣

[@j.hueston4370]

Have you ever used golf pencils? The kind that have a little bit of lead in a plastic holder. Got a box of them free and have them all over the workshop.

[@BarryHull]

The Pica you showed isn't designed for fine woodworking. I use them while repairing my fence and they are fantastic, never fails me.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Exactly

[@JasonPeltier]

I use the 123 blocks as an offset for my table saw fence when using the miter gauge. It's a perfect 1" offset, so very easy to set the fence.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Yep

[@David-hm9ic]

The longer you have the 1-2-3 blocks the more useful they become. They compliment the set up blocks very nicely.

[@woodandwheelz]

You can also magnetize a tool with any home magnet. Just rub the magnet along the length of the tool actually touching the tool (i.e. along the shaft of the screwdriver or claws of a hammer). Neodymium magnets are the best. So, save the $10 and grab a fridge magnet. The reason you would want to de-magnetize a tool is when your working on something delicate like a computer, or almost anything electronic, where the magnetization would damage the sensitive components.

[@philshock3805]

All you have to do to magnetize something like a screwdriver is rub the tip with a magnet. No idea how you would reverse it (or why you'd want to). lol I love the Amana countersink but one drawback I've found is the rotating wheel sometimes gets in the way because of it's size ... especially when you've got things clamped up. Then I need to drag out the old school countersinks. My go-to tape measure is a small, yellow 10-footer from (I think) Stanley. Very pocketable without being bulky and completely accurate.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Yeah the small Stanleys are nice pocket tapes. And I agree why would you unmagnetive any tool! 🤣

[@Ritalie]

15:00 LMFAO. That was hilarious. Love seeing your attempt to break expensive Festool stuff in the name of making a good video. That looked like something a normal person would do in their shop haha.

[@poppopsworkshop]

I love my Pentel Graphgear as well. I use my Pica with white lead for marking rough lines on darker woods

[@MWAWoodworks]

I do the same thing. My Pica is used for rough layout on walnut boards.

[@ColumbiaSCRealEstate]

One the best tool videos I've ever seen! Thanks!

[@MWAWoodworks]

Wow, thanks!

[@johnnyrayh5858]

If you want to magnetize something you can always just drag a magnet over it in the same direction a few times.

[@dougcook7508]

Thanks a lot!!!! Now my Amazon wish list just got bigger - and I didn’t know that was possible! 🤣🤣. Great video, I really enjoyed.

[@dsigetich]

Love your video! I have some of the tools and accessories you showed, and want some of the rest. I too have 1-2-3 blocks and never use them. Maybe I’ll try using them for stop blocks. Or paper weights. I second the comment about the usefulness of a digital caliper. Thanks!

[@onecarwood]

Totally agree on the pencil. I tried a fat lead and used it for one day. The mechanical pencil i use are the cheap ones so when i lose them it’s ok.

[@MWAWoodworks]

🙌

[@MrWaldorfian]

PICA makes a 0.5" version also. I have both. I use the 0.5" one all the time for working in the shop. The fatter lead one is used for basic framing where the fat line doesn't matter as much.

[@johnnyb362]

I can answer the question about why you’d want to demagnetize something. I changed the screen in an iPhone once and was congratulating myself on how smart I was for organizing all the microscopic screws on a magnetic tray. Then I started to reassemble it and realized all the screws had been magnetized. My screwdriver was also magnetized and the law of averages meant that half my screws had opposite polarity to my screwdriver so it would repel the screw head making it impossible to use. 😂

[@mac3971]

Critter paint spray gun. It's cheap if you already have a compressor. Easy to clean and puts down a nice finish with either paint or poly.

[@brianstevens3858]

I used the stanley powerlocks for years, as a go to period, now I use Komelon selflock, having the button pull the tape {after use} is way more functional, {once you adjust to it}. no contest.

[@MWAWoodworks]

I'm going to try one of those.

[@DaveGDesigns]

I have a telescopic magnet with a small built in LED light. It's great for when you drop screws into small places to retrieve them or like I do quite often I drop screws or metal parts into the pile of sawdust under my lathe

[@MWAWoodworks]

Ooohhhh I need to check that out! I just put a magnet on a dowel rod and hope for the best 🤣

[@meperson]

Same here!

[@2233sc]

I carry the graph gear 1000 and the pica, I use the pica for writing notes, marketing sides, etc. and the 0.5mm for marking measurements.

[@shermantank]

My experience with mechanical pencils is the lead is probably going to break going cross grain. I started using the Zebra DelGuard mechanical pencil, it's got a little spring mechanism in it that reduces lateral strain on the lead and it's been great. They are also cheap as hell, like 2-3 bucks a pop, so it's not a be problem to have a few around the shop, or if I lose one.

[@MWAWoodworks]

I have an Uni mechanical pencil that has the same spring action. It's great!

[@simonlang2001]

rotate the pen as you move it down the square, will help maintain the point.

[@MWAWoodworks]

Good idea

[@simonlang2001]

@@MWAWoodworks in general i find the hufltus same thing as the pica is great for rough carpentary, but the sharpener is on the case clip easier to sharpen on i have 3, 5 n 9 of the stadier pencil, but invariably reach for the hulfitor

[@ticketforepic4429]

If you mark like a drafter and pay attention to the angle of your pencil and spin it while you mark, you will essentially be sharpening while you use it. You will have to sharpen your pencil occasionally but much less frequently.

[@kenerickson4923]

I just got the thread checker. Love it and it can be an industrial necklace for woodworking geeks 😂

[@MWAWoodworks]

Great idea!!

[@tedpuckett2779]

Really good vid. One of the best ones I’ve seen for actually useful items. Re the Pica segment…now that’s swimming upstream. Good ole #2 pencil for me. The lil time I spend sharpening slows me down a bit which isn’t always a bad thing. Thank you for sharing.

[@MWAWoodworks]

I still keep good quality cedar pencils lying around. Never know when you'll need one.

[@Ritalie]

9:17. When I saw the "Demagnetizing" feature on that tool, I was thinking, you can't demagnetize something with the same magnet that made it magnetic. That seems like a major marketing scheme. I think the only way you can demagnetize something is by heating it up, hitting it with a hammer repeatedly, or applying an AC magnetic field to it to degauss it. The problem with magnetic screwdrivers is if you have metal shavings around. If you're strictly using your screwdrivers for wood, then they should be magnetic, 100%.

[@danielbackley9301]

In answer to the question why you would demagnetize something always demag your drill bits before drilling steel helps to keep the chips from sticking in the flutes . This helps to keep the drill cooler and helps to keep your hole sized properly.

[@dereklong801]

I have a Penta but honestly any cheap mechanical pencil with a fine lead will work. I actually reach for the cheap Walmart disposable mech pencil on my bench more often. The Vix self-centering drill bits are essential, IMO.

[@j.f.christ8421]

The cheaper pencils (in general) eject more lead with each click, with fine lead the more it sticks out the more likely to break.

[@dereklong801]

@@j.f.christ8421 If too much is out, hold down the lead ejector and push some lead back in. Takes a second.

[@j.f.christ8421]

@@dereklong801 Yeah, you can always make a cheaper tool work with effort. Or just buy a better one, they're not that expensive. I usually use a marking knife anyway and 0.9mm for writing.

[@dereklong801]

@@j.f.christ8421 I have both. The cheaper one is literally just as good.

[@IfDawidCanYouCan]

Thank you for sharing your view on the gadgets. I got very similar items (e.g. Flat Measuring Tape, Mechanical Pencil, Magnetiser/Demagnetise block - it actually came with my Screw Driver Set, so that’s bonus, and some other items those you didn’t show). Saying that I’m no PRO but to keep me occupied I do some woodworking after watching various videos like yourself. I got a very small Shed (10’x8’), and which I got too many things. So seeing the Cart for your Shop Vac, it wasn’t a brainier to make something similar for my vacuum cleaner that I use for collecting Dust/wood shavings and the rest. Brilliant ideas and the tips you do. Thank you! I believe, “Our World is a Shared Experience”… Remember, *_Life_* is *_Short_* so, *_Live Long_* and *_Prosper_* … 🖖 Look after yourself and each other & Stay Safe! Now let’s get on to your next video. Pls Stop by my Channel and let me know if and where I should concentrate to improve my contents and pick up some paces. Being disabled, it’s not easy to keep it up, but I’m trying… Cheers!!!

[@miguelangelsucrelares5009]

"Both metric and 'normal' measurements..." That made me chuckle.

[@whiskeygrunt772]

You can magnetize a screwdriver with....... a magnet. Any powerful rare earth magnet will work. Speaker magnets work pretty good since they're large. Just draw the tip along the magnet in the same direction. Done