Definition: A level is used to determine whether an object is level (perfectly horizontal) or plumb (perfectly vertical). There are many types of levels, but two are predominantly used in woodworking.
The first is a full-length level, typically 48-inches in length and made of hardwood with brass edges. There are two glass-encased bubbles on each end of the level. To use, place the level flat against a horizontal object, and if the bubble settles directly in-between the two lines on the glass tube, the object is level. Similarly, if placed against a vertical object, checking to see if the bubble lies between the lines will determine if the object is plumb.
The second type of level is a torpedo level, which is typically between eight and ten-inches in length. They work the same way as a full-length level, but are ideal for checking level and plumb on small objects.
There are many other types of levels, such as string levels, aluminum levels and laser-line levels, but these are more suited for construction purposes.
The first is a full-length level, typically 48-inches in length and made of hardwood with brass edges. There are two glass-encased bubbles on each end of the level. To use, place the level flat against a horizontal object, and if the bubble settles directly in-between the two lines on the glass tube, the object is level. Similarly, if placed against a vertical object, checking to see if the bubble lies between the lines will determine if the object is plumb.
The second type of level is a torpedo level, which is typically between eight and ten-inches in length. They work the same way as a full-length level, but are ideal for checking level and plumb on small objects.
There are many other types of levels, such as string levels, aluminum levels and laser-line levels, but these are more suited for construction purposes.
