Lee Valley Spokeshave Roll. For some people, spokeshaves are like peanuts (or planes); they can't have just one. This Lee Valley tool roll (really a tri-fold case) keeps them all organized, accessible and portable. Made from a heavy polyester fabric, the exterior of the roll is double-layered and padded.
For some people, spokeshaves are like peanuts (or planes); they can't have just one. This Lee Valley tool roll (really a tri-fold case) keeps them all organized, accessible and portable.
Made from a heavy polyester fabric, the exterior of the roll is double-layered and padded. Sewn elastic straps hold six spokeshaves of lengths up to 12". The roll flaps fasten closed with hook-and-loop strips to cover the shaves, or fold behind the roll for display or use. Nylon quick-release buckles secure the roll for transport, and wall-mount clips are included for hanging.
Two inside pockets have a cut-resistant lining for holding extra blades, and a small pouch holds shims. An external 7" x 10" zippered pocket stores instruction booklets, notes, designs or sharpening papers. At 23" long by 13" wide without the flaps, it folds up to a compact 8" x 13" case.
Which plane to start with depends on what you will do, but for most people a smoothing plane (No. 4) or a jack plane (No. 5) is a good first choice. The smoothing plane gives smooth surfaces, and the jack plane is a versatile plane for both rough work and truing edges.
Low-angle jack planes such as the Lie-Nielsen No. 62 and the Veritas low-angle jack are also popular all-round planes. A block plane is a good addition for end grain and chamfers. The guide explains how the hand plane is built and which types exist.
Planes of cast iron and steel rust easily, especially in unheated workshops and from moisture on your hands. Wipe the plane after use and protect bare surfaces with a thin layer of wax or oil that will not mark the wood.
Store your planes dry, ideally in a plane sock or box. If rust has already formed, the guide shows how to clean and protect them.