What is a Set Square?

Have you ever needed to draw a perfect right angle or precisely measure an angle while working on a project? If you’re not sure what tool to use for that, you need a set square. These nifty little devices have been helping creators, builders, and designers get nice clean angles for centuries.

In this article, we’ll explore what set squares are, how they work, and some of the ways you can use them in your own projects. Whether you’re a carpenter, artist, engineer, or hobbyist maker, set squares are handy to have around. Read on to learn all about those angled wonders known as set squares.

What Is a Set Square?

A set square is a tool used in technical drawing and geometry. It’s a triangle-shaped device with markings that allow you to draw straight lines and measure angles.

Set squares are ideal for architectural drawings, product designs, and any technical illustrations that require precise lines and angles. They give you the ability to draw parallel lines, perpendicular lines, triangles, and a variety of polygons.

So in summary, a set square is an essential tool for any technical drawing. Keep one in your drafting toolkit and you’ll be constructing precise shapes and angles in no time!

What are the Two Types of Set Squares?

There are two main types of set squares: 90-45-45 degree and 30-60-90 degree.

90-45-45-90 degree set squares have equal sides, with angles of 45, 45 and 90 degrees. They’re great for drawing perpendicular lines and squares.

30-60-90 degree set squares have angles of 30, 60 and 90 degrees, with the sides in the ratio of 1:2:√3. You can use them to construct equilateral triangles and hexagons.

With both types, the hypotenuse side faces away from the centre, while the 90 degree angle sits in the corner. Set squares are a must-have tool for any technical drawing.

What are the Characteristics of Set Square?

A set square is a triangular measuring instrument used in technical drawing. It has the following characteristics:

• It has a 90 degree angle and two 45 degree angles. The 90 degree angle provides a perfect vertical or horizontal reference line. The 45 degree angles provide lines at 45 degrees for diagonal lines.
• It comes in different sizes according to the scale of the drawings. Common sizes are 100 mm, 150 mm and 300 mm. The larger sizes are more suitable for architectural drawings.
• It is made of transparent plastic so that the lines can be seen through it. Some are tinted in different colors for easier visual reference.
• It has beveled edges so that it can be slid smoothly along the T-square or drafting board. This allows clean, sharp lines to be drawn.
• The inner edges have fine graduations in millimeters to enable accurate measurement and marking of distances.
• Some set squares have additional angles like 30, 60 and 120 degrees for more versatility.

It is a very useful and important tool for technical drawing to obtain accurate lines at predetermined angles. No technical drawing is complete without the use of set squares.

What is a Set Square Tool Used For?

A set square is a useful tool for drawing straight lines and precise angles. Here are 7 main uses:

1. Drawing parallel lines. Set squares allow you to draw parallel lines by using the edge of the set square as a guide.
2. Creating right angles. The most common set squares have angles of 45 and 90 degrees which can be used to draw perfect right angles.
3. Measuring angles. The angles on the set square can be used to measure and replicate the angles you need.
4. Drawing perpendicular lines. Perpendicular lines intersect at right angles, 90 degrees. Set squares make this easy.
5. Creating technical drawings. Set squares are essential tools for technical drawings where precision is key.
6. Marking cut lines. When making things out of wood or sheet materials, set squares guide your marking cut lines.
7. Checking angles. As a quality control tool, set squares are great for checking that angles are correct.

In summary, set squares are simple but useful tools for any task where accuracy and precision are important. Keep a set in your tool kit!

How to Use a Set Square?

A set square is a ruler used in technical drawing to draw straight lines at precise angles. To use a set square, follow these steps:

• Place the set square on the edge of the paper. Align one side of the set square along the edge of the paper. This will be your baseline.
• Secure the set square in place. Use drafting tape or a drafting arm to hold the set square firmly against the edge of the paper so it does not move as you draw.
• Align your ruler. Place a ruler along the inner edge of the set square. The ruler should touch the set square at a 90 degree angle.
• Draw your line. Keeping the ruler firmly in place, use a pencil to draw a straight line along the edge of the ruler.
• Adjust and repeat. Slide the set square and ruler to the desired location on your paper and draw additional lines at the same angle. You can also flip the set square over to the opposite side to draw perpendicular lines.
• Use additional angles. Most set squares have angles other than 90 degrees, such as 45 or 30 degrees. Align these inner edges with your paper edge to draw lines at those angles.
• Remove and label. Once done drawing, remove the set square, ruler and any drafting materials from your paper. Label the lines if needed for your technical drawing.

Your set square is a convenient tool for creating precise angles in your technical drawings or designs. With some practice, you’ll be using it to make perfectly straight lines at any angle.

Using Set Squares for Drafting and Drawing

Let’s start with the basics. To use set squares, place your set square along the edge of your paper to draw vertical and horizontal lines. Position the square so one side is aligned along the edge of the paper. Then, simply slide your pencil along the edge of the square to draw the line.

Drawing parallel lines

Want parallel lines? No problem. After drawing your first line, simply flip over your set square and use the other side as a guide to draw the next line. Repeat as needed. Set squares make it a breeze to get evenly spaced, parallel lines every time.

Creating angles

Set squares also come in handy when you need to draw lines at specific angles, like 45 or 30 degrees. Just align one side of the square with the edge of the paper to get the angle you want. Slide your pencil along the square and voila, angled lines made easy!

As you can see, set squares are simple but useful tools for any draftsperson. Keep them in your toolkit and use them anytime you need precision, evenly spaced lines or spot-on angles. Your drawings will be neater and more professional in no time!

How to Use Set Squares for Measurements and Angles

Once you have your set square in hand, here’s how to properly use it:

• Place the set square along the edge of your paper. The baseline of the set square should be parallel to the bottom edge of the page. Secure the set square in place with one hand.
• Use a sharp pencil to draw a line along the angled edge of the set square. Apply firm and even pressure as you draw the line from one side of the page to the other.
• Lift the set square away to see your straight line. Check that the line is at the intended angle, either 45 or 60 degrees. Make any necessary corrections before moving on.
• For measuring angles, place the baseline of one set square along one line of the angle. Place the second set square along the other line so that the angled edges meet at the vertex to form the total angle.
• Once the set squares are properly aligned, you can measure and mark the angle between the edges. Remove the set squares and you’ll have the outlined angle on your page, ready to draw in.

Using set squares requires a little practice to master but can help you achieve precise lines and accurate angle measurements for your technical drawings, math work, and other projects. Take your time and be careful to get the angles just right.

Selecting the Best Set Squares for Your Needs

When choosing set squares, consider the following:

The material and quality are important for accuracy and durability. Look for set squares made of durable materials like aluminum, stainless steel or acrylic. Cheaper set squares may warp or bend over time. For most casual uses, acrylic set squares are inexpensive but work well.

The sizes you’ll need depend on the types of drawings or projects you do. The most common set squares are 6 inches and 12 inches. Larger set squares, like 18 inches, are good for large format drafting. Smaller set squares are more portable but may be too small for some uses.

Degree options refer to the angles of the set square corners. The most common angles are 45° and 90°. 45°-45° set squares have two 45° corners for isometric drawings. 60°-30°-90° set squares have one 60° and one 30° corner, useful for math and geometric drawings.

Double check that the edges are straight and the angles precise. Run your fingers along the edges to ensure they’re smooth and splinter-free. Test the angles using a protractor to make sure each corner measures correctly. High quality set squares will have precisely machined angles and edges.

For most casual uses, a standard 6-inch or 12-inch acrylic 45°-45° or 60°-30°-90° set square is ideal. Look for a reputable brand that produces set squares known for accuracy and quality. With proper care, a good set square can last for many years and provide an essential tool for your projects.

What are the Advantages of Set Square?

Set squares offer many benefits for draftsmen and designers, including the following:

• Accuracy: Set squares provide precise 90° and 45° angles for accurate measurements and drawings.
• Versatility: Set squares can be used for a variety of technical drawings like floor plans, elevations, and 3D drawings.
• Precision: The finely calibrated edges and markings on set squares allow for exact measurements and flawlessly straight lines.
• Convenience: Set squares are compact, lightweight, and easy to transport and use.
• Compatibility: Set squares work with other common drafting tools like T-squares, protractors, and drafting boards.
• Durability: Set squares are typically made of durable materials like acrylic or metal that can withstand frequent use.
• Affordability: Set squares are an inexpensive tool, making them accessible to professionals and students.

For technical drawings and designs, set squares are an essential tool that provide accuracy, precision and convenience. Their compact size, affordability and compatibility with other tools make them useful for drafting by hand or with software like CAD. Overall, set squares offer draftsmen an ideal combination of functionality, portability and value.

What are the Disadvantages of Set Square?

Set squares have some downsides to consider:

• Limited angles: Set squares typically only provide angles of 30, 45, and 60 degrees. For other angles, you’ll need a protractor.
• Inaccurate: Plastic set squares can warp or bend over time, leading to inaccurate measurements and drawings. Metal set squares are more durable but also more expensive.
• Difficult to use: It takes practice to become proficient with set squares. They require careful alignment and positioning to get precise results.
• Limited functions: Set squares are designed for only a few specific functions like drawing parallel lines, perpendicular lines, and angles. They can’t do curves, circles or more complex shapes.
• Easily misplaced: The small, lightweight triangles that make up set squares are easy to misplace or lose if not properly stored. You’ll want to keep them in a designated pouch or case when not in use.

In summary, while set squares are useful basic tools, they have some inherent limitations and disadvantages compared to more advanced drawing tools and software. For many applications, set squares may not meet all your needs on their own.

What is the Difference Between a Try Square and a Set Square?

A try square and set square are both drafting tools used for technical drawing, but have some key differences. A try square has a handle and a blade that connects at a 90° angle, used to draw perpendicular lines. A set square, on the other hand, comes in a variety of angles, typically 45° and 60° in addition to 90°. These adjustable angles allow a set square to create angled lines, not just perpendicular ones.

Set squares are more versatile, enabling you to draw a wider range of angles for diagrams, floor plans or any other technical drawings. However, for simple 90° angles, a try square can work great and may be more affordable. It really depends on your specific needs and how precise your angles need to be. If you’re a casual drawer or just getting into technical drawing, a basic try square is a great start. For architects, engineers or any highly technical fields, a set square will probably suit you better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have some common questions about set squares? Here are the answers:

How does a set square look?

A set square looks like a right-angled triangle made of metal or plastic with graduated markings along two edges. The most common set squares are the 90-45-45 degree and 30-60-90 degree triangles.

How many different angles can you draw with two set squares?

Using a 90-45-45 degree and 30-60-90 degree set square, you can draw angles of 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 135 and 150 degrees. These two tools provide a versatile and accurate way to construct angles for any geometric drawing.

Which angle cannot be drawn using a set square?

A set square cannot directly draw angles that are not multiples of 15 degrees, such as 38 or 72 degrees. To construct these angles, you need to use a protractor.

What is another name for a set square?

A set square is also known as a triangle, T-square or drafting triangle. Its primary use is in technical drawing, to construct perpendicular lines and measure angles. Students often use set squares for geometry lessons in school.

What is the use of set squares in architecture?

Set squares are essential tools for architects and designers. They are used to draw precise lines, angles and shapes. Set squares allow architects to draw plans, elevations and details with accuracy and consistency.

How do I use a set square?

Set squares are very versatile tools used for measuring angles, marking lines, and drawing parallel lines. To use one, simply place the edge of the set square along the side of your ruler or straightedge and slide it along to make your needed measurement or line. Some set squares have a 90 degree angle, while others have a 45 or 60 degree angle. They come in transparent and opaque varieties.

What are set squares used for?

Set squares have many applications, including measuring angles, marking perpendicular lines, ensuring your drawings have parallel lines, creating technical illustrations, and more. They are essential tools for architects, engineers, designers, and draftsmen.

What size of set square should I get?

Set squares come in a range of sizes, typically ranging from 6 to 12 inches. For most basic needs, a mid-size set square around 8 or 10 inches will work well. Larger sizes, around 12 inches, are good for bigger drawings. It depends on the scale of your work.

Are set squares durable?

High-quality set squares made of durable materials like acrylic or metal can last many years with proper care. Plastic set squares may warp or break more easily. Look for set squares with securely attached rulers or protractors that won’t come loose or fall off over time. With normal use and storage, a quality set square should provide many years of service.

How do I draw a 15 degree angle?

Place the 45 degree edge of the set square along the horizontal line. Then slide the set square down while keeping it lined up with your vertical line. The angle it creates where the vertical line meets the slanted edge is 15 degrees.

How many set squares are in a geometry box?

A standard geometry set will contain two set squares, one with 45 and 90 degree angles, and one with 30 and 60 degree angles. These provide the flexibility to create most common angles used in technical drawing and geometry.

How should I handle a set square?

Always pick up a set square by grasping the longest edge. Never bend or twist the set square, as this can affect the precision of the angles. Store set squares flat and avoid dropping them.

How do I maintain my set square?

To keep your set squares in good working condition, store them in a dry place away from extreme heat or cold. Avoid scratching the edges and wipe them down occasionally with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris. With proper care and handling, a quality set square can provide many years of accurate use.

Conclusion

Set squares are those nifty little triangle rulers that help with drafting precise angles. They come in a few different sizes like 30-60-90 degree and 90-45-45 degree triangles. You’ve probably seen them around in math class or your tool box. While they may seem old school, set squares are still super handy for drawing, crafting, or woodworking. Next time you need to mark some neat angles, reach for a set square instead of a protractor. They’ll help you make measurements quickly and easily.