Do More with Your Block Plane

Synopsis: Pound for pound, no hand tool in the shop packs in more value than the block plane. Its compact size makes it great for trimming parts flush, breaking edges, and shaping and smoothing both curved and straight pieces. Learn how to use your block plane and take your furniture making to the next level.

The block plane is a great acquisition for a woodworker of any skill level. Pound for pound (or ounce for ounce), it packs in more value than almost any other hand tool. The key is its compact size. A block plane fits in one hand, making it easy to control. It can be used with a delicate touch, and with your grip being so close to the wood’s surface, it’s easy to develop a good feel for the tool.

I’ll show you how to use a block plane to take your woodworking to another level. But first, a few words about the tool itself.

Go low angle, and keep it sharp

There are two types of block planes, standard models with the blade, or iron, held at 20°, and low-angle models with the blade bedded at 12°, designed for end-grain work. Both types have the blade bedded with the bevel facing up. I would recommend a low-angle model as a first block plane. Get the blade razor sharp (I hone the bevel of the low-angle plane at roughly 30°), set up the plane to take fine cuts, and you’ll get great results on end grain and long grain alike. (For more on standard vs. low-angle block planes, and for recommendations on which ones to buy, see Mario Rodriguez’s review in FWW #228.)

How to push (or pull) a block plane

The block plane is designed to be held easily in one hand, but I recommend using both when possible, to increase your control over the tool. There are a number of ways that I add my second hand (see photos, this page and opposite); I even reverse hands and pull the tool through the cut when needed. It works just as well.

Heavy planing is best done with the force coming from your lower body—all the way down to your feet—leaving your hands and lower arms for control. But for lighter cuts or awkward situations, you’ll find that pushing with your arms is just fine.

Photos: Asa Christiana

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Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Tite-Mark Marking Gauge

These gauges can be easily and precisely adjusted with one hand, which allows you to set the tool while holding a ruler or workpiece in the other. The quality is exceptional, and all have sharp cutters that offer great visibility.

Buy at Lie-Nielsen Toolworks

Veritas Precision Square

This precision square is incredibly versatile, from checking squareness to dialing in machine setups.

Buy at Lee Valley

Lie-Nielsen No. 102 Low Angle Block Plane

With smooth, precise adjustments and wonderful balance, this compact block plane is a joy to use. It doesn’t have any bells and whistles, but there’s not a better block plane available for the money.

Buy at Direct