Making Traditional Wooden Planes

Astragal Press books on antique tools and more

John M. Whelan

Making Traditional Wooden Planes by John M. Whelan

John Whelan unlocks the fascinating secrets of an almost lost art: wooden planemaking. For those curious about the ingenious ways of the craft, this book lays out clear step-by-step instructions that will enable any woodworker to make a plane. Each chapter (covering 20 different types of planes and spokeshaves) is fully illustrated by the author’s line drawings. In addition, there are chapters on the history and alternative methods of planemaking, making plane irons, and the tuning and using of wooden planes.

Every chapter that details the construction of a particular plane starts with a photograph of the plane that has been made by the author. As you would expect from Mr. Whelan, the book is the finest and most complete work on the making of wooden planes. You will enjoy it even if you never put blade to wood. Should you make a plane or two, you will find Making Traditional Wooden Planes most satisfying.

“A classic reference work in its field…thoroughly researched and well written
and illustrated.” — RAG

“This book is excellent…with directions that were easy to follow and accurate. Certainly the book I’d recommend to anyone wanting to build their own plane.”
— Woodenboat