Precision Edge: The Art of Handplane Sharpening

Meet Steve, a skilled artisan with a keen eye for design and a mastery of hand tools like handplanes and chisels. Steve creates stunning furniture and turns ordinary wood into works of art. His teaching approach at the Artisan's Asylum is infused with his passion for craftsmanship, making every class a dynamic journey into the world of woodworking, where students discover their own creative potential.

This class is essential for woodworking enthusiasts who are eager to elevate their skills by mastering the art of hand plane sharpening. This skill is considered the most critical for effective hand tool work. Whether you're a beginner embarking on your woodworking journey or an experienced craftsman aiming to refine your precision and efficiency, this course is tailored to meet your needs. You'll delve into the theory behind effective plane sharpening techniques, understanding the nuances that impact performance. Through practical demonstrations and guided practice, you'll learn how to grind precise bevels and hone a sharp edge. You will discover useful tricks and insider tips for consistently achieving a razor-sharp edge and optimal plane performance with ease. By mastering this foundational skill, you'll enjoy cleaner, more precise cuts, saving time and enhancing your woodworking projects with confidence and finesse. Get ready to transform your woodworking experience and elevate your craft to new heights.

The materials fee for this class is $30. This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts payments in cash or through.

Knowledge Gained: Handplane blade anatomy, selection, grinding, honing, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Skills Learned in Sequence: Tool inspection, bevel and micro-bevel angles, grinding, honing, and stropping/polishing.

End Result: Graduates achieve razor-sharp blades, cleaner cuts, and receive a Scary Sharp system lapping plates set, along with a leather strop and polishing compound. They will also have the knowledge needed to effectively use these tools for ongoing chisel maintenance.

Handplanes for practice and demonstration purposes.

Abrasives and sharpening stones required for the workshop.

Scary Sharp system lapping plates for each participant.

Leather strops with polishing compound for each participant.

Sharpening jigs for setting the bevel angle.

All necessary safety equipment for the workshop, such as safety glasses and hearing protection.

Handouts and instructional materials for reference during and after the course.

Participants will have access to these materials to ensure a hands-on learning experience and the opportunity to practice their newly acquired handplane blade sharpening skills during the workshop.

Students are not required to bring anything to the class, as all essential materials and equipment will be provided. However, it is recommended that students consider the following optional items:

Handplanes: While handplanes will be provided for practice, students may choose to bring their own handplanes if they wish to sharpen and work with their personal tools.

Sharpening Jigs and Stones: If students have their own sharpening jigs, diamond stones, oil stones, or water stones, they are encouraged to bring them to the class. This allows them to practice with their preferred equipment and receive guidance on its use.

Notebook and Pen: Bringing a notebook and pen is a good idea to take notes and jot down key tips and techniques shared during the workshop.

Closed-Toe Shoes: For safety purposes, wearing closed-toe shoes is recommended to protect the feet from any potential hazards in the workshop environment.

Comfortable Clothing: It's advisable to wear comfortable, natural fiber clothing that allows ease of movement during practical exercises.

While these items are optional, bringing personal chisels and sharpening equipment can enhance the learning experience and ensure that students are familiar with the tools they use regularly.

Students must be 16 years old or older. All students under 18 must be accompanied by and under the direct supervision of a responsible adult.

Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies Here.

Please email [email protected] with any questions.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Artisan's Asylum, 96 Holton Street, Boston, United States