SHOP TIP: An easy way to lay out smooth arches

Mark arches of nearly any length or curvature using this simple method. Clamp three stopblocks to the workpiece, two at the ends of the arch and one at its middle (this block should come to a point) as shown. Rip a ¹⁄₈ "-thick fairing strip of wood, position it between the blocks, and mark the arch.