chalk line
1 of 1noun/ˈtʃɔk laɪn/
Forms:chalk lines
1
a carpentry tool consisting of a reel or container filled with powdered chalk and a string, used to create a straight reference line on a surface by snapping the string coated with chalk
A chalk line is a simple tool used to mark straight lines on surfaces for construction or woodworking tasks. It consists of a string coated with powdered chalk inside a case, which also serves as a reel. To use it, the string is stretched tightly across the surface and snapped, leaving a straight chalk mark. Chalk lines are helpful for creating guides for cutting, aligning materials, or laying out designs. They are commonly used on walls, floors, or boards where precise, straight markings are needed.
- The carpenter used a chalk line to mark the spot where the wall studs would be installed.
- Before cutting the plywood, he snapped a chalk line to ensure the edges would be perfectly straight.
- The mason stretched a chalk line across the foundation to align the first row of bricks.
- She used a chalk line to create a guide for painting the stripes on the wall.
- The flooring installer snapped a chalk line to mark the starting point for laying the tiles.