Needham Community Education

In this class we will begin by learning the theory behind sharpening single bevel blades with a hollow grind and practice on hand planes and chisels. You will be introduced to layout tools such as marking gauges and knives and learn to appreciate the importance of laying out your work. Moving to the hand plane, we will then learn how to tune a hand plane and begin properly using it to flatten, thickness, smooth and square wood boards (e.g., for panel glue-ups). Next up is the uber-versatile 1” chisel. After appreciating the difference between a sharp and a dull chisel, we will lay out and carve chamfers and round-overs by hand to obtain the feel for how the chisel moves through wood. Chisel work will continue with chopping and further paring in the building of a basic, wooden display case. We will finish the class by working with router planes to smooth the bottom of our project.The instructor will also address any questions you may have along the way. Project materials (such as wood) are covered by the cost of the class. Hand planes, chisels, router planes and marking gauges/knives will be provided or bring your own. Limited to 4.