Category Archives: Link of the week

Link of the week

Patrick’s Blood and Gore Page

Old Stanley PlanesSure, it sounds like a page where people might talk about gruesome murders or the latest shoot-em-up video game, but this is actually one of the best resources for Stanley hand plane information on the Internet.

Patrick Leach of the Superior Tool Works assembled this virtual library of information on the hundreds of different styles of hand planes build by Stanley Tools from the mid 1800s through the 1960s.

Leach concentrates his efforts primarily on the Bailey and Bedrock offerings, not delving too deeply into the lesser-quality lines such as Handyman.

While his style is pretty tongue-in-cheek, and he does lean heavily toward offering his own personal opinions (especially when it comes to the transitional offerings from New Britain) there is no doubting that he has done his research. Sole lengths, blade widths, special features and the like are all offered in meticulous detail. If you are looking for a new hand plane, this site is a must see.

Link of the week

How to Build Three Basic Hand Planes

Three handmade planes

I’m sure that you know by now that I’m a big hand tool nut. If you love hand tools as much as I do and want to try your hand at making your own, this is the site for you.

Popular Mechanics offers easy to follow instructions complete with a detailed measured drawing and step-by-step photographs to make construction as easy as possible. There are even helpful tips (the proper way to glue the wood pieces together to ensure the most stable plane body, etc.) that will help you avoid common pitfalls in building your own tools.

I’ve got to admit, building your own hand plane sounds like a challenge I’m up for.

Link of the week

David Marks teaches how to tune a band saw

David Marks at the band sawThe band saw is one of the most versatile tools in the shop. It can cut curves, rip, crosscut, resaw and cut in 3-D… but, only if it’s tuned properly!

Wood Works’ David Marks takes you step-by-step through the process of setting up your band saw to get the best from this essential tool. Adjusting for blade drift, balancing the wheels and setting your guides are just some of the tips David offers.

Start the year off right with a well-adjusted tool. It may be what you need to improve your work.