Sometimes Lee Valley innovates in smaller ways. I like the whole array of miniature tools they make, but a recent tool which could actually be used is the Veritas Pocket Layout Square. Small enough for fine detail layout. or in tight spaces.
The square is made from a solid aluminum extrusion, which is anodized, and 1½” on side. The base is ½” wide, and 1/8″ thick, with a 1/8″ offset on one side, and ¼” on the other. The markings are laser etched on both sides.
The square has 1/16” rule graduations on the vertical edge, and angle graduations in 10° increments on the diagonal edge. Due to the small size, I imagine that these markings may not be as accurate as those on a protractor. The only concern I have is that it may be too small, and actually disappear in the wood shavings in the workshop!
working by hand 