I'm working on my first project, making a mallet for my dad from a piece of apple wood. I've managed to chisel out the mallet head and plane most of the sides, but two sides are still rough and not the right shape. I usually stick to hand tools, but I do have access to power saws. What methods can I use to get the mallet head into the correct shape?
3 Answers
If you want to see the process in action, check out some YouTube videos! There's one showing how to make a simple mallet with basic tools, and another for a more complex version. I actually built a modified version of the complex one, and I use it all the time. It’ll give you some great insights into shaping your mallet better!
A belt sander could be a good option too! Just keep in mind, whether it's a belt sander or any cutting tool, it really depends on what sides are rough and how much material you need to take off. Just be cautious with it!
Using a hand plane is probably your best bet for flattening out the mallet head. You can also try a rasp or a file; basically, anything that cuts can work. Just remember to check out some safety videos for the tool you choose. A good tip is to keep both hands behind the cutting edge when you're working to stay safe!