This class will introduce you to the basic tuning features of a hand plane and how to adjust them to get an optimal cut of wood with the tool. We will discuss the different types of hand planes used in woodworking and finishing, and how the different aspects of the tool are used to achieve an optimal finish. Armed with this knowledge we will prepare stock for use in a project from a rough-cut piece of poplar wood, provided in class. We will address straight edges, cupping and bowing of the wood, and how to flatten it. When complete, we should have a piece of wood ready to use in a project, or at a minimum the skills required to do so.
Aspects of the class:
- Hand plane basics such as the components and how they contribute to the work of the plane.
- A word on sharpening.
- Workbench overview and basics. Size, weight, vices, and dogs. Bench alternatives.
- Adjusting the tool, and how to set up for an ideal cut.
- Different hand planes and their use. Why is one better than another for a specific job.
- The Scrub plane, the Jack plane, and the Smoothing plane. Basics for almost any job.
- Winding Sticks. What they are and how they are used.
- Wood grain and how to cut with a plane. The famous Dog hair example. Identifying grain direction.
- Cutting, stance and direction. How to mount a piece of wood to the bench.
- Taking shavings! Planning your finish on the board. Using the Scrub plane, Jack plane, and the Smoothing plane to finish the wood.
Notes
The fee for this class includes the use of tools and a bench in class, and a piece of poplar from the woodpile that you will dress with a finish ready for work in a project. Typically, this will be a flat piece of wood from six to eight inches wide by about two feet long and may have cupping and bowing in it that needs to be addressed with the hand plane. There is one bench available for use, with two vises on it, a face vise and a tail vise. These will have to be shared during class. Hence the limit to class sizes.
Please be on time to maximize class time and out of respect to the other member of the class. Class will begin on time and end on time.