Tools & Techniques

This is a jig that can be used to get a consistent and accurate taper useful for a variety of projects, for example when shaping table and chair legs. It is particularly useful where you want to create a number of identically tapered pieces. It’s construction is similar to the thickness planing jig and can be adapted to suit a variety of purposes.

In this video, Paul shows how to make a simple tool which he has been using all his working life. This screw in a block can be used as a beading tool or a marking gauge and is useful in many situations.

Make yourself a rebate plane to use for your upcoming projects using materials you will probably have readily available. Paul goes into the details of making sure the wedge and blade fit accurately and how to use a chisel as the blade. Used in the picture frames project.

The best way to get hold of a mitre box that suits your needs is to make your own. In this video, Paul shows how he makes one in a matter of minutes that guarantees accuracy, especially when used in combination with a shooting board (link to shooting board video). They can be used for many things such as trim for tool chests, boxes and drawers as well as picture frames and the like.

Chair Devils are a great tool for refining the shape of round legs and spindles, smoothing out any irregularity or unevenness. Paul shows how to make your own using a card scraper. The design can be adapted to various tapers and diameters and you could make a couple of different ones to have at hand for a number of projects.

In this video, Paul shows how to use chair devils to even up and refine tapered spindles and legs of various diameter. Chair devils are very effective at smoothing out any high spots left after shaping with the spokeshave.

Do you have a moulding plane you’ve picked up or been given but you’re not sure where to start with sharpening it? Paul shows how he would sharpen the blade whilst maintaining the profile to get the moulding plane sharp and ready to go.