How to Scribe Logs
- 1). Position the log that will be scribed in the exact position of final attachment on top of the lower log. Orient the top log so any bow, crown, knots or other imperfections will be facing the outside of the wall.
- 2). Square the log being scribed with the lower course of logs. Measure the distance with the tape measure from the ends of the bottom logs, lining the top log up evenly with each end of the lower log. Fine tune the alignment of the logs by placing the level against the sides of both the top log being scribed and the log under it.
- 3). Clamp the top and bottom logs together with a log dog clamp so the top log will not move during scribing.
- 4). Measure the height of the log. Open the scribe up to the depth that you wish to make the notch. For example, if you want the notch to equal 1/2 the height of the top log, place the bottom point of the scribe on the top center point of the bottom log. Open the jaw of the scribe with your hands until the top point of the scribe reaches halfway up the top log.
- 5). Set the scribe so the top marking point of the scribe is set against the bottom edge of the top log with the bottom point of the scribe resting against the side of the bottom log.
- 6). Carefully move the bottom point of the scribe up, over and down along the outside of the bottom log while keeping both points of the scribe in constant contact with their respective logs. This will transfer the exact shape of the bottom log to a pattern on the top log.
- 7). Turn the log over so the traced pattern is facing upwards. Carefully cut out the traced pattern with the chain saw. Use a hammer and chisel to finish removing any areas of wood which cannot be reached with the chain saw along the edges of the notch line.
- 8). Roll the log back over and check the fit of the notch. If there are any areas around the edge of the notch that need trimming, mark the spots that need trimming with a pen. Flip the log back over, so the notch is facing upwards again. Make the final detail cuts with the hammer and chisel.
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