Scaling up/down

[arfer1943]

I find it helpful to either use a model of what I want to carve or base my carving on an object (Figurine etc).

This may require scaling up or down to my desired size. I try to fit what I want to do to wood I have.

Once I know the scale I want, this is what I do.

1. Get two strips of wood about 12" long.
2. Set one end of the two strips at 1" apart.
3. Crossing the strips in an "X" set the other at the dimension required.
4. In other words, scaling up or down by 2 times step 3 sets at 2".
5. Clamp both pieces.
6. Drill carefully at the middle of the crossing. Insert small bolt, washer and nut.
7. Carefully sharpen each of the 4 ends to a point WITHOUT SHORTENING each leg.
8. Use to take measues from model to work....

[Grayhorn]

So do you make a new set of scales for each carving or do you drill several holes for different scales in one set of strips. This is an interesting set of "calipers". Al

[arfer1943]

As scaling migt be 3.37 to 1 depending on wood, model size, I make new each time.

Shop bought adjustables cost over $100.

[Kelley]

I use the same process to do most of my large carvings. I can use the same sticks for several carvings. I think these are called proportional calipers.
Kelley

[Old_Gord]

Yep, proportional dividers when they are straight line measuring tools.
There are proportional calipers as well, but then the ends look like outside calipers.
Here's a sketch of one type of home made proportional dividers.



OG

[arfer1943]

Old Gord, a picture is worth a thousand words! Just the ticket!

Being mean and using what I have, not what I'd like I often have to make "odd" scales.

[Grayhorn]

Good post arfer1943. Old Gord thanks for the picture, been looking for just that rig. Al

[jimmy joe]

Looks good to me . Thanks for sharing .

[Old_Gord]

You are welcome, glad I could provide some info.

OG

[Larry Bev]

Great tip thanks for posting.

Larry