How to Use a Jointer Plane

A jointer plane is a long hand plane used for smoothing and straightening the edges of wooden boards. Using a jointer plane can be one of the most frustrating experiences for a new wood worker. Unless the jointer plane, also called a number seven, is properly set up, getting even acceptable results from it can prove to be almost impossible. But once set up properly, with a little practice, the jointer plane can be a most effective and enjoyable tool.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Jointer Plane
• Sharpening Stones
• Wood

1. Sharpening the blade supercedes anything else. Without a sharp blade, nothing else matters. Due to the long length, 22 inches, and heavy weight, trying to use the plane with anything less than a razor sharp blade will not produce good results. Remove the blade/cap iron assembly from the plane and sharpen the blade using a traditional sharpening stone.

2. Once the blade is sufficiently sharp, attach the cap iron to the blade. The cap iron should end a little less than a sixteenth of an inch from the edge of the blade. Any more and it won't fully support the blade, leading to chatter marks. Less and the blade may not be able to dig into the wood.

3. With the board to be planed fastened securely with a clamp or by a helper, stand with your feet around shoulder length apart and firmly grasp both handles of the jointer plane. Your dominant hand should hold the rear handle.

4. Place the toe, the front part of the plane, on the edge of the board and push the plane forward, taking a full stroke. For best results, skew the plane to the board. Pushing the plane on a slight angle to the board will allow the board to slice through the wood more easily than with it aligned completely with the board.

5. Work your way down the board without stopping, taking full strokes forward and then pulling the plane back as you walk forward, keeping the jointer plane in contact with the board at all times. Your motion shouldn't stop, but you will only be cutting on the forward stroke.

6. Once you reach the other end of the board, stop and examine your work. If you have a smoothly planed surface with no rough or high spots, your work is done. If not, you will need to make another fine-tuning pass or two until the board is smooth and flat.

Tips & Warnings

• Where safety glasses anytime you are using tools. Set the blade deeper for the first pass and shallower for fine-tuning work.