When it comes to fabricating sheet metal projects, a good set of layout tools makes your work consistent and repeatable. Being able to quickly and easily mark out reference lines for cutting, drilling or bending makes you more efficient, too. With the help of master fabricator Jamey Jordan, Eastwood has developed four new sheet metal layout tools.
The latest additions to the Jamey Jordan Signature Series lineup includes a 12-inch straight layout ruler, a circle layout tool, a straight line layout tool, and a French curve and circle tool. All four of these tools are available separately of can be ordered as a set.
Edge Layout Tool
The 12-inch aluminum Edge Layout Tool features a 1/8-inch-thick lower lip that hugs the edge of your material, ensuring precise alignment every time. It inclues a ruler edge marked in ¼-inch increments. Elevenholes run through the center of the blade, spaced an inch apart and a ½-inch from each edge. This spacing is ideal for rivets and the tool is perfect for marking or center-punching pilot holes.
An offset center channel on the top face provides a visual reference for the lower lip, helping you stay aligned as you work. Designed for sheet metal projects where accuracy matters, it can also be used with Clecos during the layout phase.
Circle Layout Tool
This 12-inch x 7-inch Circle Layout Tool features a classic half-circle profile with six 1/8-inch-wide grooves for precise marking. Baseline notches at each end ensure accurate alignment for consistent start and end points, while seven reference holes spaced every ½” add flexibility for detailed layout work.
It has a 12-inch straightedge to help maintain alignment when laying out symmetrical designs. Crafted from sturdy 1/8-inch anodized aluminum and laser-cut for precision, this tool is ideal for scribing accurate cut lines before bead rolling, snipping, or plasma cutting.
Straight Edge Layout Tool
The 16″ x 5.25″ Straight Edge Layout Tool features five 1/8”-wide grooves to guide your scribe or marker when laying out straight, parallel lines. Its reversible design includes two marked scales with 20 pre-measured spacing options for quick and precise line placement.
Fifteen reference holes spaced every ½” add further versatility, helping you maintain alignment and symmetry across panels. Like the circle layout tool, it’s laser-cut from durable 1/8” anodized aluminum.
French Curve Layout Tool
The oversized 18-inch x 6-inch French Curve Layout Tool features classic curve profiles. It also incorporatesten integrated circle templates ranging from 1 to 2.25 inches with index marks for fast, repeatable layouts.
It’s the ultimate tool for laying out smooth, flowing curves in custom panels, bodywork, aircraft skins, and other projects. Use it with scribe tools to transfer complex contours before cutting, shaping, or forming.