Plane Making DVD - Now Available

Making a hand plane was the first thing all students had to do at the College of the Redwoods Fine Woodworking Program under the guidance of Jim Krenov. For many of us this was not the last plane we would ever make. From then on planes were made as the need arouse. For example, in order to make a set of coopered doors for a cabinet I was making, a curved bottom plane was necessary. Once you know how to make a bench plane and a curved bottom plane you can make any type of plane to fit just about any purpose. The same techniques apply, you just have to change the blade size, the plane dimensions, or both. This plane making DVD will demonstrate how to make both types of planes and will give you the know-how to then go on to create any type of plane you may need.

This instructional video gives instruction on making a bench plane and a compass plane. A compass plane is a curved bottom plane used in guitar making to scoop out the solera and back work boards. These work boards are dished to a radius because both the top and back of the guitar are domed.

The bench plane is the most commonly used plane in any woodworking shop. A bench plane has many uses and is considered an all purpose plane. It is typically used for joinery, smoothing, thicknessing and even surface preparation. The design of both these planes can be altered to suit just about any purpose. The blade size and the size of the plane itself can be altered to suit a particular task.

Click here to watch a preview of the new plane making DVD.

Need an idea for your next woodworking project? This project is for all skill levels and can easily be completed in a weekend. And when you are done you will have two very useful tools. If constructed properly these planes will perform as good as anything you can buy, its all up to you.

Complete full size color drawings for both planes are included on the disc. Instructions for accessing the drawings are on the disc itself.

Using a wooden hand plane is a unique experience. They feel very different than store bought metal planes. I think you will like the difference. The wood on wood leaves a very different surface, one that is silky smooth. These plane are ideal for use in guitar making. The bench plane is ideal for thicknessing tops and other parts. I encourage you to discover how rewarding it can be to work with a plane that you have created. I think you will enjoy the experience.

Kits for both planes complete with high quality blades and breakers are available on this web site as well as a complete plane making kit which includes the DVD and both plane kits.