Centers

[TRKYHTR]

Is there any kind of tool that will find a center on a small piece of wood like a striker blank? I'm thinking of something that will either prick the center or mark the center on small objects? I'm having a hard time getting the center on my small 1/2" striker blanks. Thanks,

TRKYHTR

[stone road turkey calls]

Joe look at this and see if it will help.

gary
http://www.instructables.com/id/Make-a-Center-Finder/

[stone road turkey calls]

joe this may be what you are looking for.
peachtree woodworkers supply. http://www.ptreeusa.com/layout_products.htm#1295

gary

Item # 1295
   



Wood Turners Center Finder  

 

Quickly locates the center of turning stock.

•Maximum 8'' round, octagon and square; 5-3/4'' hexagon.
•Made of impact—resistant plastic

[magnoliagamecalls]

Joe,
        I just use a metal ruler. I take it from corner to corner making a cross.

[handcannon]

Hey Joe. If all of your 1/2" blanks are uniform, you might be able to make a small jig. Cross cut a slice off a 1/2" square from the end of one of your blanks then drill a small hole into the center. Make it just big enought to run a brad nail or something simular through. Just set it onto the end of the blank, set your nail into the hole and give it a light tap to make your center point.

If need be, I will sell you one of these precision pieces of scrap wood for $19.95 plus S&H. That's an OG special price that is 50% off the going price and all the proceeds go to my favorite charity (ME). I'm here to help.

[lightsoutcalls]

I mark my striker blanks with my bandsaw.  I set up my fence to guesstimate center with the blade.  I make a cut about 1/8" deep, flip the blank 90 degrees, cut again, flip 90 degrees, cut again, flip 90 degrees and make final cut.  If the fence is lined up on center, the 3rd and 4th cuts will end up in the same mark as the first 2.  If it is a bit off, I make the needed adjustment before marking (cutting) the other end.  This also helps by allowing the 4 teeth of my head center to catch in the cuts.