Begin by selecting the Linear Tool at the top of your screen.

Name your measurement, such as "Hip and Valley Tool."

Set the Linear Type to Hip and Valley. This will allow you to pick items from the catalog and automatically source the correct material for the hip and valley measurements, ridge, or other components.

Set the Number of Plies for your material. This can range from one to several plies, depending on your requirements.

Specify the Bearing in Inches, which is the length of material that rests on supporting elements (e.g., jack studs for headers).

Measure the pitch of the hip and valley. For example, if the pitch is 7-12, ensure this is reflected in the settings.

Select the Manufacturer (default is usually "General") and choose the appropriate catalog for the Hip and Valley Tool parts.

Choose the material size, such as 2x6s, from the catalog that matches your measurement requirements.

Set the Linear Width to a visible size, typically 4 inches, for clear reference.

Choose a dark color for the line and adjust transparency for better visibility during measurement.

Click Start and left-click to begin your measurement. Double-click at the end to complete it.

The tool will calculate the necessary material length based on the measurement (e.g., a 16.05-foot measurement will source an 18-foot board).

Select Stop to end your measurement session.

Go to the Reports tab and select Estimate to review the measurements and sourced materials.

For larger sections, enable Hover Label under Options to see the measurement length as you draw.

Measure in segments if the material length exceeds standard sizes. For example, if you need 26 feet, measure in two segments of 14 feet each.

In the Estimate Report, segmented measurements will display separate material lengths (e.g., 18-foot, 16-foot, and 14-foot boards with waste percentage included).