No math needed to find the center of a board in this quick tip. It only requires a ruler and a pencil.
Using Math is Hard for Irregular Sizes
If we want to rip a long board in half and that piece is a 2″ piece of wood, then it’s super simple to find the center– divide by two and get our clean easy 1″ answer. But most boards do not have a nice and easy measurement when they are milled at the factory.
So here’s the problem: Take a non-standard sized board of 2″13/16, and quick — divide by two and tell me the measurement!
Great, now do it for the rest of these boards: 3″7/16, 5″3/16, and 7″1/8. You get the point.
Well, fear not– no math is required for this next tip!
Solution: Find An Even Number on the Diagonal Line
Step One: Extent your tape measure or ruler on a diagonal line to an even number.
Step Two: Divide by Half and Mark
Step Three: Mark Second Crow’s Foot
Step Four: Draw The Center Line
There you have it: The easiest way to find the center of a board.
Bonus tip: Add a scoring knife on top of the pencil line to prevent splintering.