A marking gauge consists of two parts, a fence 2.5 x 2 inches and a stem 9-10 inches long, and carrying a pointed steel spur at one end. The head is fixed in any required position by means of a wood thumb screw or a wedge. Marking gauges are used for marking lines parallel to the face side or edge when planning work pieces to size, and to similar parallel lines when marking rebates, joints, etc.