Summary: Learn how to scrib wood or timber, scribe and cut a difficult shape and fit wood against an uneven surface.
Scribing is a technique used to fit skirting boards, worktops, or any wooden panels against uneven walls or floors to create a perfect, flush fit. Scribing essentially copies the profile of the wall onto the panel so that, having cut the panel to shape, it will fit like a jigsaw piece against the surface of the wall.
Method one
- Place the panel firmly against the wall.
- Use a level to check it is plumb.
- Hold a small block or wedge between the wall and the panel.
- Press a pencil against the block with the nib on the panel and allow it to draw a line on the panel as you move along the wall.
- To replicate this profile as near the edge as possible for trimming, take two compasses and place the points on the line you have drawn where the line is nearest the edge of the panel.
- Move the point along the line so that it traces a second line near the edge of the panel.
- Clamp the panel and cut it to fit this profile using a sander.
Method two
- Place the panel against the wall.
- Use a level to check it is plumb.
- Set a compass to bridge the gap between the wall and the panel.
- With the pencil against the panel, move the compass along the wall.
- Clamp the panel and cut it to fit this profile using a sander.
Related projects
- Building a metal framed stud wall
- Building a stud partition wall
- Creating an arch
- Closing a fireplace
- Fitting a door frame
- Fitting a door stop