Hand Planes

We currently have two wooden planes that can be used to finish certain structures in woodworking projects. Have a look at this great video class (about 20 minutes in) to learn how to tune and sharpen them or this video explaining different styles of hand planes!

Smoothing Plane

ToolInfoBox Smoothing Plane
Synonyms:	reform smoothing plane; DE: Reform-Putzhobel, Schlichthobel?
Type:	hand tool
Material:	wood
Location:	wood workshop
Access Requirements:	upon reading
Tutors:	Lukas

To retract the blade, loosen the set screw a tiny bit, hold the plane in one hand and hit the metal button at the thick end with a hammer.

Until we get a jointer, it's possible to joint edges with a small hand plane like this (with a little practice)!

Router Plane

ToolInfoBox Router Plane
Synonyms:	hand router; DE: Nuthobel, Grundhobel
Type:	hand tool
Material:	wood
Location:	wood workshop
Access Requirements:	upon reading
Similar (More or Less):	router

Used for smoothing grooves and recesses - for large or repetitive jobs, you'd rather use a power router nowadays.

Our router plane has not been commissioned yet and very likely needs some sharpening!

Surform Plane

ToolInfoBox Surform Plane
Synonyms:	DE: Surform-Hobel
Type:	hand tool
Material:	wood
Location:	wood workshop
Access Requirements:	upon reading
Similar (More or Less):	rasps

Short for "surface forming" plane, a surform plane closely resembles a rasp. Use it for fairly quick and aggressive material removal, but don't expect a silky finish!

Further Reading

• Dictum: "Expertenwissen - Hobel" (DE) or "Expert knowledge - Planes" (EN) with terminology of parts and some information about bevels and cutting angles