I'm new to woodworking but eager to get my 12-year-old son started. I've seen a lot of recommendations for Lie Nielsen planes, but they seem pretty pricey! I don't mind spending for quality, but I want to make sure it's worth it for both of us. I have a few questions:
1) I noticed that Stanley planes are also costly on places like Facebook Marketplace. Should I just go for the Lie Nielsen and avoid future regrets?
2) Is a #4 or #5 jack plane easier for him to use due to weight differences?
3) My son is left-handed; does it matter if the plane is labeled for right-handed users?
4) I've used an electric planer before. How does the finish and function compare to a hand planer?
5) Lastly, what would you recommend as a good starter plane for someone with zero experience?
6 Answers
A block plane is actually a great starter option! It’s user-friendly and perfect for learning the basics without overwhelming him. Plus, it’s lightweight, which is great for a kid just getting into it.
Check out Rex Kruger on YouTube! He does an excellent job showing how to take budget hand planes and make them work great. He also shares tips on finding good old planes at garage sales. Honestly, it’s a fun way to learn!
Consider a Japanese hand plane, like those made by Kakuri. They’re usually pretty affordable (under $30) and are more manageable for beginners. Just a heads up, electric planers are more for speed, so you won’t necessarily get a better finish with them compared to hand planing. It's great to use a hand plane for that final touch!
You don't need to break the bank! A simple block plane is all he needs to get hooked on woodworking. It's effective without being too fancy or expensive.
I’d recommend looking for a #3 from Veritas or Lie Nielsen. They hold their value, so if your son outgrows it, reselling won't be a problem. Also, when searching online, don’t just look for "Stanley" planes; terms like "hand planers" or just "planes" often yield better deals! You might find old rusty ones that just need some TLC to be good as new.
Smaller bench planes like a #2 or a #4 are great for kids. They require less muscle to use, which is perfect since a lot of kids may struggle with larger planes. A lighter plane is easier to control and helps build craftsmanship skills. As for the Lie Nielsen vs. Stanley debate, sure, Lie Nielsen has better quality, but a sharp cheap plane can still do wonders. Just make sure to invest in good sharpening tools—sharp blades make a huge difference!
Thanks for the tip about the smaller planes! I didn’t realize they’d be easier for him to handle.