String, the Ultimate Tool

String comes in a plethora of sizes, materials, and strengths. The string needed in a home owner's toolkit is made from nylon which gives it strength. Everyone could use a roll or two with several hundred feet on them.

Sting is used in chalk lines, for marking long lines where a ruler is far too short to get the job done accurately. The string is carried in an enclosed reel that chalk can be added to, simply mark the object at opposite ends as needed, and stretch the chalk line across tightly. Once the line is taught snap it once and a line of chalk will mark where the line is stretched. Keep extra chalk handy as it tends to use it up quickly.

Plumb bobs use string to suspend a weight to mark vertical lines, keep the weight off the floor slightly so the bob is free to swing until it stops on its own. Find the mark on the floor or ceiling you want to transfer and mark the opposite end.... A chalk line reel is great for a plumb bob, and will keep the string neatly rolled up and out of the way when not in use.

A roll of string has many uses and a line level is just one more way to utilize string the ultimate tool!
A line level, hooks over the string and once you have pulled the string taught over your project it is possible to check it for level over a long distance. You can set grade, level forms, and measure rise or fall from it.

A string line on grade stakes will allow a straight wall to be built, or your concrete forms to run straight and level, or about any other long project that only string can aid in the completion of.

String can be used in a pinch to lash projects together like a clamp or temporarily hang one end of a long board in place when working by yourself when you need an extra hand.

String can be used as a means to draw large curves or circles, find your center point, run out a length of string to match your needs and attach a pencil in a loop at the other end to mark your curve with.

String the Ultimate tool, don't leave home without it... or at least not when remodeling your house. Try to keep several rolls around since it is all too easy to cut one up for smaller projects.