You can get obsessed with tools, jigs and fixtures. I free build a lot and am still building Jig number 3 and may sell some in the end. But for now here are some tools you might find useful:
Frame tubing and lugs from Peter at Framebuilding.com
My favorite tools right now are my trend digital angle finders. its the right size, has rounded end so measuring angles with big fillets are not problem and its acurate to a fraction of a degree for any angle:
Other angle finders i use app on my phone or old analog ones
Notes for TIG welding you can use standard steel rods but the joint is weaker. stainless 312 is nice to use a low cost and relatively strong (check with supplier as it can vary). A popular choice on forums is weld mold 88OT but is hard to get hold of and pricey. it does make a nice weld pool and it pretty strong. note if you are using Reynolds 953 you need to use their native tig rods or 312l but that not certified and will give you a weaker joint as will standard steel. here’s some data:
| Rod type | Strength | Elongation |
| 880t | 800 | 35% |
| 312-16 | 800-750 | 25-29% |
| tigtechtic 680 | 827 | 25% |
| 312mol | 780 | 35% |
| tigtechtic 6800 | 730 | 30% |
| Er80s-g | 700 | 24% |
| ER80S-B2 | 655 | 29% |
| ER70S-2 | 640 | 22% |
| 309lsi | 635 | 32% |
| 309mosl16 | 600 | 35% |
| 309 | 580 | 32% |
| ER 80D-2 | 580 | 26% |
Software
I have been using Rattlecad (you also need ghost script and FOXIt pdf ) for the frame design and geometry and for CAD CNC i have tried Solidworks but much more content using Auto Desk Invetor.
Levy Bike Works 
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