Marking gauges are used to mark notches or lap and seam allowances by scratching a line into the metal parallel to the edge.

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not used

Answer: (A)

Marking gauges are built to transfer a precise offset from an edge by scratching a line along the workpiece. The fence rides along the edge while the scriber marks the metal, creating a line parallel to that edge. This is exactly what you need for notches and seam allowances, so you can lay out where to cut or bend with a consistent distance from the edge. Because the line stays parallel as you work, it helps ensure accurate lap joints and seams across long pieces. While other tools can scratch a line, a marking gauge is specifically designed to produce a reliable, parallel mark at a fixed offset, making the statement true.