Replies

1. 
   Floss | Oct 19, 2006 04:58pm | #1

   Eric,

   Plane by lifting the plane at the end of the stroke to sever the shaving.

   Then use a scraper to even out the surface.

   Finally, sand and finish.

   J.P.

   http://www.jpkfinefurniture.com
2. 
   JeffHeath | Oct 19, 2006 10:08pm | #2

   I would add to what jp said that I keep a stick of parrafin wax handy, and 'squiggle' it across the sole of your smoother to help it slide better, as well.  It cuts down on the friction and effort quite a bit, especially when you're working a large surface.

   You can decide if you want a hand planed finish, or a sanded finish.  When I'm done smoothing a top, I don't sand it.  That just dulls it up again, in my opinion.  I go straight to finish.  If your plane iron has been sharpened correctly, with the corners cambered slightly, you shouldn't be leaving any ridges.

   Jeff

3. 
   derekcohen | Oct 20, 2006 03:16pm | #3

   A couple more points.

   I assume that the the top is flat as determined by winding sticks?

   Time for the smoother. Draw lines across the top so that you are able to keep track of what part of the surface is planed.

   Where absolute flatness is required (if the finish is a gloss), then I would use a panel plane or even a jointer set up to take fine shavings. Otherwise a standard smoother is fine.

   I use ordinary candle wax on the soles of my metal planes.

   Regards from Perth

   Derek

1. 
   Cirept | Oct 21, 2006 12:19am | #4

   Yes it's all flat- I just have a hard time reaching the middle to have continuous plane lines to smooth it out.  Maybe a lower bench height would help?

   Eric

4. 
   AdamCherubini | Oct 21, 2006 03:30am | #5

   I'm not sure I understand the problem. If you are looking to smoothen you should be going more or less with the grain. You would plane it like anything else except that you may have to either turn it around to do the other side, or pull your bench away from teh wall and work from the other side. Also, dont' be afraid put the thing on the floor and kneel on it and plane on your hands and knees. No rule against that.

   I would like to recommend turning off your shops lights and or covering the windows and setting up some sort of raking light. It really helps you find problems.

   Adam

1. 
   mwenz | Oct 21, 2006 04:01am | #6

   Adam's suggestions are good ones all--but the raking light is one of the ones I found useful.

   Never gave it a thought back when I worked in my grandfather's basement or once I was working in the log cabin under kerosene lights. When we moved to a place with running water [inside] and electric lights, my work instantly improved--until the finish was applied.

   Do be aware raking light will most likely show up "flaws" which one might otherwise live with. So a bit of interpretation is needed as one learns to use raking light.

   Take care, Mike