I've recently joined the hand plane movement because it looks so satisfying to use, and I love the idea of taking off thin layers of wood. However, I'm struggling with actually getting it right. While I think I can get the blades pretty sharp (my skin can attest to that!), I'm not able to achieve those beautiful thin shavings you often see in videos. Can anyone share basic resources on choosing the right hand plane, how to set it up, and how to use it effectively on different types of wood grain?
5 Answers
When I learned at school, the basics were getting a good plane, like a Stanley or Record. It's essential the sole of the plane is flat and to sharpen the blade correctly. I use two angles for sharpening and make sure the mouth isn't set too small. A tiny adjustment can make a big difference too. Don't stress if it doesn't work perfectly at first—just tweak it until it feels right!
I’m a big fan of Rob Cosman’s videos too. He really breaks down the foundational steps, from sharpening to setup. He has a particular video that shows how to tune a new plane which is a must-watch!
Check out some YouTube channels like Matt Estlea, Paul Sellers, Rob Cosman, and Rex Kruger. They all have great tips, but I'd especially recommend Matt for hand planing basics. You'll find everything from setup to technique in their videos!
Getting tips on how to set up your specific type of plane can be super helpful. I use a Sweetheart #62, and it has its unique quirks. But don’t fret too much about hitting that perfect shaving standard. You can still achieve nice surfaces without chasing after perfection while you're learning!
Your plane might be the real problem here. Paul Sellers has excellent videos on tuning a hand plane, and he usually recommends older Stanley models—especially the ones made before WWII. Smoothing planes in sizes 3, 4, or 4 1/2 work best. If you're using a cheaper, newer plane, you can still make it work, but it’ll take more effort. Also, remember to always plane with the grain for the best results!
That makes total sense! I’ve had some trouble before because I wasn’t paying attention to the grain direction. I'll definitely check out those Stanley models.