Scribing. Scribing is the term applied to the process of fitting wood to the irregularities of any uneven surface, as, for instance, in fitting a piece of ceiling against a stone wall, as in Fig. 116. Here it is necessary that the tongue edge of the piece of ceiling should stand plumb, resting at one or more places as at a, as it is to be the first board of a ceiling partition. Dividers should be used to transfer the irregularities of the stone wall to the piece of ceiling. First, fasten the ceiling firmly in the place as indicated, and set the compasses at the greatest distance between the stone wall and the edge of the ceiling, as at b. In making the mark, or scratch, /, the points of the compasses should be carried perfectly level, or square with the edge of the ceiling; to insure accuracy the greatest depressions and angles, as at c, should be transferred to the ceiling by means of a try-square.

Fig. 116. - Scribing.

Some workmen prefer a pair of scribing dividers which have very stiff legs and a pencil attachment that makes a mark which may be more easily followed in cutting than one made with the legs of a compass.

The cut should always be made so that the joint will fit on the face; therefore the face of the piece being marked, the wood in its thickness should be cut far enough back to insure that it will not prevent the piece from making a joint on the face.

This process is useful in fitting against moldings, finish, floors, or in any place where a joint, not perfectly straight, is necessary.