How To Use A Checkering File
One easy way to get the proper angle for the master lines is to use a Dem-Bart Checkering Gauge 241-000-001.
How to use a checkering file. The tough part is to get your first basic lines straight and orderly. It costs less than 10 and is simply a diamond shaped template 3 long by 1 high for a 3-to-1 ratio or 4 long by 1 high for a 4-to-1 ratio. Easier to use for the less experienced user also.
Trace the lines through tracing paper with a ponce wheel or with a sharp pencil. After pencil tracing use a sharp grease pencil to darken the lines. Overcut is parallel to file edges and upcut is 90 degrees to overcut.
They are often used to create decorative edges on bezels broad textured surfaces and fast material. Once the pattern is fully laid out bring to final depth with a 60 needle file. Layout your master lines or use a guide like our 45 Checkering Guide then establish the pattern by moving the file a few teeth each time using the previous lines as the guide.
Depending on how round the handle is you might have to use a file with a single row of teeth. Overcut is parallel to file edges and upcut is 90 degrees to overcut. Procedure is very similar to wood checkering.
In this video Kurt shows you how to lay out your border lines and your master lines. Now score the master lines with help of flexible rule and scribe. Im thinking a thin hacksaw blade might work.
As far as coining goes I wonder if you would even use a file. It is what I use when refinishing stocks. Like by taking it to the grinder and thinning it out maybe.