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Fine Homebuilding Project Guides

Framing

Guide Home
  • Introduction to Framing
  • Framing Tools, Techniques, and Materials
  • Framing Floors
  • Framing Walls
  • Framing Stairs
  • Framing Roofs
  • Efficient Framing Methods
  • Timber Framing
Tools & Materials

No-Wind Chalkline

This sturdy, self-retracting chalkline is tough to beat.

By Patrick McCombe Issue 278 - Oct/Nov 2018
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I never get tired of the jaw-dropping reaction I get when other carpenters see my self-retracting Tajima Chalk-Rite chalkline. “What is that?” and “Does that chalkline wind itself?” are the most common responses that don’t involve profanity. But far more than a gimmick aimed to impress, the $20 Chalk-Rite works great and is very durable.

I especially like how the fine, braided string leaves a distinct line and won’t ball up inside the housing like cheaper strings. The line maxes out at 33 ft., but self-retraction is limited to 23 ft. A steel ball inside the chalk reservoir breaks up the chalk and the sturdy hook grips both edges and corners of material quite well. In short: Get one.

Photo: Melinda Sonido

Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Reliable Crimp Connectors

These reliable, high-quality connectors from Wirefy work on 10-22-gauge wire have heat-shrink insulation to keep out water and road salt.
Buy at Amazon

Makita Top-Handle Jigsaw (4350FCt)

This saw is compact, well balanced, easy to maneuver, and features a small but bright LED that illuminates the cutline even when working in dark spaces.
Buy at Amazon

Hitachi Pin Nailer (NP35A)

This compact, no-frills nailer is a good choice for someone starting out in the trades or a builder unsure of how to get the most out of a 23-ga. pinner.
Buy at Amazon
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Framing

Framing

Trusted, in-depth guidance from the pros for framing a durable, code-compliant house

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Introduction to Framing
  • House Framing Concepts, Tips, and More
Framing Tools, Techniques, and Materials
  • Tools
  • Techniques
  • Framing Lumber
  • Steel
Framing Floors
  • Floor Framing
  • Engineered Floors
  • Floor Sheathing
Framing Walls
  • Wall Framing Basics
  • Layout
  • Wall Assembly
  • Raising and Straightening Walls
  • Framing Rough Openings
  • Blocking
Framing Stairs
  • Stair Layout
  • Building Stairs
Framing Roofs
  • Roof-Framing Basics
  • Roof Design
  • Laying Out and Cutting Rafters
  • Framing Valleys
  • Working with Trusses
  • Dormers
  • Special Situations
Efficient Framing Methods
  • Advanced Framing
  • Double-Stud Walls
Timber Framing
  • Timber-Frame Construction
  • Timber-Frame Design

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