How to Make a Plumb Line
The plumb line is a simple tool that has been used for centuries. It is believed to have been a critical instrument used by the Egyptians to build the great pyramids. Using a plumb line will ensure your own project is vertically straight. It is both easy to make and easy to use and will prove most helpful when hanging wallpaper, squaring wall panels and creating doorframes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Tie a small weight to the end of a long string. A strong nylon or twisted cotton string works best. You may use a plumb bob, an object made specifically for this purpose, or any household object such as a key or a watch as your weight.
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Cover the string with chalk. Do this by running the string along a soft piece of chalk or by covering a cloth with chalk dust and running the string through it. Be sure to use a color of chalk that will be easily seen on the wall.
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Pin the top of the string to a fixed point at the top of the wall or on the ceiling. The weight should hang freely near the floor and be stationary before proceeding.
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Use your thumb to hold the string against the wall just above the weight.
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Pull the center of the taught string back with your free hand and snap it against the wall leaving a chalk line. This line is exactly vertical and perpendicular to the fixed point above.
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Use the plumb line on each wall to ensure straight lines throughout a room.
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