Squaring the rough edges.

[<moonsong@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Thomas,

I usually pick the flattest surface after splitting and
lay it face-down on a hard, flat surface (concrete floor
or slab) and use a roofing square and felt pen to mark a
vertical line square to the flat surface on the outside
of the rough stone. Knock off those bits outside the
line with a hammer and heavy pitching tool.

Mark another vertical line on the fresh face of the
stone after swinging the square around 90 degrees
(horizontally) from the original position. Go back and
forth between these 2 positions (using the hammer and
pitcher) until the vertical line is straight.

Repeat for each of the four vertical edges of the block
until they are all straight, square and parallel. The
edges will be square to the original face that was laid
on the concrete.

Measure up from the floor and mark an equal distance to
the top of the block. Join the top corners of the block
to mark 4 horizontal edges. Repeat the marking and
pitching process until the 4 horizontal edges are
straight.

This is a good way to quickly set out a squared-up block
ready for further refining work. To get an exact size,
mark out a square on the floor first, extend the lines
forming the sides well beyond the intersections and sit
the block on top of the setout. These lines can then be
transferred up the edges of the block so that waste
stone can then be removed with the hammer and pitching
tool.

Simon