Layout tool for framing studs

A layout tool for framing studs including, in combination:

• (a) a straight elongated bar having a flat narrow top surface;
• (b) first and second flat narrow bar segments pivoted to the top surface of said elongated bar adjacent to opposite ends of said flat narrow top surface for swinging movement in their own planes towards each other to closed positions in which the segments overlie and are parallel to said elongated bar, and to open positions away from each other in which the segments extend at right angles to said elongated bar, the distance between said segments when in open positions corresponding to the desired distance between framing studs to be erected;
• (c) an additional straight elongated bar having third and fourth bar segments pivoted to its top surface for swinging movement in an identical manner to said first and second bar segments, the distance between one end of said additional straight elongated bar and the third bar segment being such that when said one end is in abutting alignment with the end of said first mentioned straight elongated bar following said second segment, the distance between said second segment and third segments when in open positions corresponds to said desired distance;
• and
• (d) connecting means for securing the straight elongated bars in end-to-end alignment whereby, said tool can be positioned along base and overhead boards for the framing studs with the open bar segments overlying the boards and four stud positions marked on the boards with one application of said tool by utilizing said segments as a pencil guide, and whereby said segments can be folded to their closed positions and said straight elongated bar disconnected from said additional straight elongated bar for easy packing and transportation of said tool.