Carpenters and roofers who chalk a lot of lines save time by using geared boxes that rewind the string about three times faster. Check the label for this “speed wind” feature. You will have a choice of red, blue, white or fluorescent chalk. Fill your chalk box with the blue chalk for general use. Red is more permanent, making it a good choice for lines that must survive a few days of weather. White is easy to remove and is best for interior painting and wallpaper, where coloured chalk could bleed through. Fluorescent is easier to see on some surfaces.

A chalk box creates a crisp, perfectly straight line in the blink of an eye. No other tool, except an expensive laser, makes a perfectly straight line over a long distance so quickly and reliably. Here are a few tips that will make it easier to get good results.

1: Loading Chalk

Fill the chalk box about half full with powdered chalk from a squeeze bottle. Tap the chalk box occasionally to settle the chalk.

2: Snapping a Basic Line

Hook the end and stretch the string tight so it crosses directly over your mark. Reach out as far as you can and grab the string between your forefinger and thumb. To chalk a line, lift the string straight up about 10mm and release it (It will snap to the floor).

3: Snapping Angle Lines On Wood

Mark angles on plywood by tacking a small nail to your mark, hooking the end of the string on it and stretching the string to the other mark.

4: Marking Angle Lines On Drywall

Cut a slit in the drywall with a utility knife and slip the string into it to secure the end. Cut the slit a little above the mark so the line will hit the mark when it is extended for an angle cut.

5: Snapping Long Lines Accurately

Stretch the string taut. Use a helper or another nail to hold the chalk-box end of the string. Press down on the string about midway between the ends with your thumb or finger and hold it. Lift and snap the string on one side and then the other using the technique shown. This technique is good for irregular surfaces and will help prevent unwanted double lines.

Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us!