I'm really eager to dive into using hand planes for my DIY projects, especially for making small to medium-sized furniture, like jewelry boxes and cutting boards. However, I'm kind of lost on where to begin! I've been watching tons of YouTube videos, but I'm still uncertain about what tools I actually need. Can anyone share some insights on what hand planes I should consider buying first?
3 Answers
Definitely start with a No. 5 plane! Whether you go for a new Stanley, a vintage version, or a high-end one like Veritas or Lie-Nielsen depends on your budget. If you want to test the waters, get a new Stanley from a local hardware store. It'll be decent for your initial attempts. Once you're comfortable, aim for a No. 7 jointer for flattening long boards and a No. 4 smoother for finishing touches. These three will really get you set up and once you enjoy planing, you can explore specialty planes as needed.
I recommend starting with a No. 5 jack plane for general use and consider getting a No. 3 smoother later on. If you’re going to work on long boards, a No. 7 is great too. Also, look for a block plane; you can often find one used for a low price and they’re great for rounding edges. Keep in mind that each plane has its own purpose, so as you gain skills, you might want to invest in a variety for different tasks.
A good starting point would be to grab a Stanley No. 5 jack plane and a small block plane. These will cover a lot of your needs and help you get comfortable with the techniques. Also, don't forget to get a setup for holding your workpiece steady while you plane it. You'll definitely want a sharpening system too—keeping your tools sharp is super important, especially as a beginner who might wear them down faster. Just keep in mind, learning this skill will take some practice and some trial and error with scrap wood, but once you get the hang of it, you'll really appreciate the results!