A scribing device and method for generating curves, the term "scribe" encompassing marking a groove on a surface such as with an awl or router, marking a surface with a writing instrument, or cutting into a surface such as with a jigsaw. In one embodiment, the scribing device comprises a generator and a scribing assembly. The generator has a generally flat, upper surface with a groove formed therein, the groove comprising one or more connected, linear or circular segments. The scribing assembly comprises a body having a lower tracing surface shaped to permit sliding movement over the upper surface of the generator. The scribing assembly also includes first and second tracers and means for mounting a scribing instrument. Each tracer includes a follower projecting downward from the tracing surface, and each follower is adapted to slide along the groove. The scribing assembly is moved such that the followers follow the groove, whereby the scribing instrument scribes the curve. The generator may include first and second grooves that are followed by the first and second followers, respectively. The groove or grooves may also be cut directly into the upper surface of a workpiece that is to be scribed.