Trammel Points Woodworking Tools – Your Ultimate Guide To Drawing

ByJim Boslice Woodworking Tool

What are trammel points? Trammel points are a set of two adjustable metal points that clamp onto any straight piece of wood (a beam), turning it into a large-scale compass.

What are they used for? They are essential for accurately drawing or scribing large circles, arcs, and curves in woodworking—perfect for projects like round tabletops, arched doorways, and custom furniture designs that a standard compass can’t handle.

Ever tried drawing a huge, perfect circle for a tabletop using a nail, a pencil, and a piece of string? If you have, you know the frustration of that string stretching, leading to a wobbly, slightly egg-shaped result. It’s a common workshop headache.

I’m here to promise you that there’s a simple, ancient tool that solves this problem with absolute precision. It’s the key to creating flawless, repeatable curves, no matter how grand the scale.

In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep into one of the most elegant and useful layout tools you can own: trammel points woodworking tools. We’ll cover what they are, why they beat the string-and-pencil method every time, how to use them for perfect results, and the best practices to keep them working for a lifetime.

What Exactly Are Trammel Points? (And Why You Need Them)

Think of trammel points as a compass that you build yourself, for any size you need. They are deceptively simple tools that offer incredible accuracy for large-scale layout work.

At their core, they are just two metal clamps (the “points” or “heads”) that slide onto a straight piece of wood or metal bar (the “beam”).

The Anatomy of a Simple, Brilliant Tool

A standard set of trammel points consists of a few key parts:

  • The Bodies: Two metal blocks that house the clamping mechanism and the points themselves. They are designed to slide freely along your beam.
  • The Clamping Screws: Thumbscrews on each body that allow you to lock them securely in place on the beam.
  • The Points: One body holds a sharp steel point, which acts as the pivot. The other holds either another steel point for scribing or a clamp for a pencil or marker.
  • The Beam: This isn’t included with the points. You provide it! It can be any straight, rigid piece of scrap wood, a yardstick, or a metal bar. This is what makes the tool so versatile.

Trammel Points vs. a Standard Compass: When to Choose Which

A small drafting compass is great for drawing a 6-inch circle on paper. But what happens when you need a 48-inch radius for an arched doorway or a 30-inch radius for a round dining table?

That’s where trammel points shine. A standard compass is limited by its fixed leg length. Trammel points are limited only by the length of the beam you can find.

Use a compass for small-scale layouts. For anything larger than a dinner plate, grab your trammel points woodworking tools for superior accuracy and stability.

The Unbeatable Benefits of Trammel Points Woodworking Tools

Adding a set of trammel points to your toolbox unlocks capabilities that are difficult to achieve otherwise. Here are the primary benefits of trammel points woodworking tools.

  • Unlimited Scale: As mentioned, your only limit is the length of your beam. Need to lay out a giant arch for a garden trellis? Find a long, straight 2×4, and you’re in business.
  • Rock-Solid Accuracy: Unlike a stretching string, a rigid wooden beam provides a fixed radius. Once you lock the points in place, that distance is not changing, ensuring a perfect, smooth curve.
  • Repeatability: Need to scribe the same arc on multiple workpieces? With trammel points, you can set your radius once and repeat the layout perfectly every time. This is a huge time-saver for projects with repeating curved elements.
  • Versatility: You can use a steel point to scribe a fine line directly into the wood for precise joinery cuts. Or, you can clamp in a pencil, a fine-tip marker, or even a blade for different marking or cutting tasks.

How to Use Trammel Points Woodworking Tools: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting started is easy. This simple trammel points woodworking tools guide will walk you through the process for a perfect result on your first try. Let’s assume we’re laying out a 40-inch diameter circle for a tabletop.

  1. Step 1: Choose and Prepare Your Beam

    Find a straight, flat, and rigid piece of wood. For a 40-inch circle (20-inch radius), a beam around 24-30 inches long is ideal. A piece of 1×2 oak or maple works great. Avoid warped or flexible wood like thin plywood.

    Check that the edges are parallel. If not, run it through your jointer or table saw to ensure a consistent surface for the trammel points to clamp onto.

  2. Step 2: Setting Up the Trammel Points

    Slide both trammel point bodies onto your prepared beam. Don’t tighten them yet. One point will be your pivot, and the other will be your marking point (with a pencil or steel scribe).

    Using a quality tape measure or steel rule, measure the distance between the tip of the pivot point and the tip of your pencil/scribe. For our 40-inch tabletop, set this distance to exactly 20 inches (the radius).

    Once you have the exact measurement, firmly tighten the thumbscrews on both bodies. Double-check the measurement to ensure nothing slipped.

  3. Step 3: Mark Your Center Point

    Find and mark the exact center of your workpiece. Use a small awl or even a nail to create a tiny indent at this center mark. This divot will give your pivot point a secure place to sit and prevent it from “walking” as you scribe the circle.

  4. Step 4: Scribe Your Arc or Circle

    Place the steel pivot point firmly into the center divot you made. Hold it in place with gentle downward pressure with one hand.

    With your other hand, slowly and smoothly rotate the beam around the pivot point, allowing the pencil or scribe to draw the circle. Don’t force it. Let the tool do the work.

    For a full circle, go all the way around. For an arc, just mark the section you need. It’s often best to make a light pass first, then go over it a second time to darken the line if needed.

Pro Tips for Flawless Results

Here are a few trammel points woodworking tools tips I’ve learned over the years:

  • Use a Sacrificial Center: If you don’t want a pivot hole in your final piece, temporarily stick a small piece of scrap plywood or a plastic bottle cap over your center mark with double-sided tape. Pivot inside that instead.
  • Angle the Pencil: Tilt the beam slightly so the pencil point trails as you draw. This helps prevent the pencil from digging in or chattering, resulting in a smoother line.
  • Support Long Beams: If you’re scribing a very large arc, the beam might sag under its own weight, altering the radius. Have a friend help support the end of the beam, or place a block of wood under it to keep it level.

Solving Common Problems with Trammel Points Woodworking Tools

Even simple tools can have their quirks. Here’s how to troubleshoot the most common problems with trammel points woodworking tools.

Dealing with Beam Flex on Long Arcs

The most common issue is beam sag. If your beam is flexing, your arc won’t be true. The solution is to use a stiffer beam. Instead of a thin piece of pine, choose a thicker, more rigid hardwood like oak, or even a piece of aluminum angle iron.

Ensuring Your Points Stay Locked in Place

If your points slip after you set them, it can ruin a layout. Make sure your thumbscrews are tight. If the beam is made of a very hard wood like Ipe, the screw might not bite well. In that case, use a beam made of a slightly softer hardwood like poplar or maple.

Trammel Points Woodworking Tools Care Guide

With just a little care, a good set of trammel points will last a lifetime—or three. Following this simple trammel points woodworking tools care guide is key.

Cleaning and Rust Prevention

After use, wipe down the metal points to remove dust and oils from your hands. Apply a light coat of paste wax or a dry lubricant like Boeshield T-9 to prevent rust, especially if your shop is in a damp basement or garage.

Keep the steel points sharp. A quick touch-up on a diamond stone will ensure they scribe a clean, fine line.

Smart Storage and Sustainable Practices

Store your trammel points in a dedicated drawer or on a magnetic tool holder to protect them from dings and moisture. Keep a few favorite pre-cut beams of different lengths with them.

One of the best things about this tool is its eco-friendly nature. You don’t need a new tool for every size. By using scrap offcuts for your beams, you’re practicing sustainable trammel points woodworking tools best practices right in your own shop.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trammel Points Woodworking Tools

Can I make my own trammel points?

Absolutely! Many woodworkers make their own wooden trammel points. It’s a great little project that involves some careful drilling and tapping for a thumbscrew. However, a quality metal set from a reputable brand like Veritas or Starrett is relatively inexpensive and will offer superior rigidity and longevity.

What’s the best material for a trammel beam?

The best material is one that is straight, stable, and rigid. For most workshop tasks, a piece of quarter-sawn hardwood like maple or oak is perfect. For extremely large layouts where weight is a concern, an aluminum extrusion or bar stock is an excellent choice.

Can I use a marking knife instead of a pencil?

Yes, and for ultra-precise joinery, it’s often preferred. Some trammel point sets come with attachments for holding a utility knife blade. A scribed line from a knife severs the wood fibers, creating a perfect channel for a handsaw or chisel to follow, which prevents tear-out.

Your Next Step to Perfect Curves

The humble trammel points are a testament to brilliant, timeless design. They solve a fundamental woodworking challenge with elegance and dead-on accuracy.

Stop fighting with flimsy strings and start laying out your projects with the confidence of a seasoned pro. Add a set of trammel points to your workshop, and you’ll wonder how you ever managed to build beautiful, curved furniture without them.

Now go make some sawdust, and draw a perfect circle while you’re at it. Stay safe and happy building!

Jim Boslice
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