How-To Guides
Step-by-step instructions for every KiXX Square feature
How to Mark Wall Stud Layouts
The KiXX Square features large, cut-away notches and V-grooves for rapid stud layouts.
Place the KiXX Square flat on your 2x4 or 2x6 (your "work piece").
Use the large, built-in notches at 3½" and 5½" to quickly mark the widths of 2x4s and 2x6s.
For other common layout marks (like trimmer studs), use the "V Groove" path. It has specific marks at 1½", 3", and 4½" for you to place your pencil.
How to Mark Anchor Bolt Holes
The KiXX Square has a notched spine that fits around the anchor bolt, letting you mark the exact center.
Place your 2x4 or 2x6 "work piece" on the foundation next to the anchor bolt.
Stand the KiXX Square on its thick edge (the "spine"). The spine is notched (or "coped") to fit snugly around the bolt.
With the spine held against the bolt, find the hole that matches your material. The square has specific holes for 3½" (a 2x4) and 5½" (a 2x6) material.
Push your pencil or marking object through the correct hole to mark the exact drill position on your work piece.
How to Scribe a Parallel Line
Our Progressive Scribe feature makes it simple to draw lines parallel to the edge of a board.
Hook the thick edge (the "spine") of the KiXX Square tight against the edge of your work piece.
Find the groove or slot for the measurement you need. The square has marks for measurements from ¼" all the way up to 5¾".
Place your pencil or marking object into the desired slot (for example, 1½").
While keeping the spine tight against the wood, slide the square back and forth to mark your line.
How to Use the Threaded Pin Shortcut
The removable ¼" threaded pin acts as a physical stop to get an immediate 22.5° angle or 5/12 roof pitch.
Identify the ¼" threaded pin. This is a removable pin that can be screwed into a stationary position on the square.
Hook the square's spine over the edge of your work piece.
Pivot the square until the threaded pin makes firm contact with the top, flat edge of the wood.
The square is now "locked" at a perfect 22.5-degree angle. Trace your "Scribe Line" along the square's long (hypotenuse) edge.
How to Mark Rafter Seat Cuts (Bird's Mouth)
Marking a perfect bird's mouth is no longer a multi-step process with our "Hip & Val" system.
Determine the location of your cut. Place the "Seat Cut Pivot @ desired position" point of the KiXX Square on this mark.
Pivot the square on that point until the "Hip or Valley SMALL marks" on the square's face align with the top edge of the board. For example, align the "5/12" pitch marks for a 5/12 roof pitch.
Once aligned, trace along the square's long, flat edge to mark your horizontal "Seat Cut line".
How to Use the Spine Info
The spine of the KiXX Square is etched with the complex roof geometry tables you actually need on the job.
Look at the thick edge, or "spine," of the KiXX Square.
Find the section for your specific roof pitch (example: 5/12).
Read the data you need directly from the tool:
- Rafter Length +/- @ 24" O.C.: Tells you how to adjust rafter lengths
- Hip/Val Layout: Gives you the numbers needed to lay out diagonal hip and valley rafters
- 48" Sheathing Cuts: Provides the diagonal measurements for cutting 48-inch-wide plywood sheets
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