Overview
Born out of a desire to understand traditional toolmaking mechanics, this project reimagines the classic small shoulder plane. While historic hand planes rely on established wooden forms or heavy cast metal, this build combines minimalist mechanical engineering with a distinct visual gesture—blending the warmth and tactile connection of traditional wood with a modernized silhouette.
Specifications:
| Title: | Shoulder Plane |
| Year: | 2025 |
| Classification | Custom Tool Design |
| Edition: | Custom (1 of 1) |
| Dimensions: | 5 1/4″ x 2 1/8″ x 3/4″ |
| Construction: | Body: Peruvian Walnut, YellowHeart, Brass, Iron: High Carbon Steel |
| Status: | Custom, Prototype |
Design Philosophy & Form
The design explores “minimalism in motion,” allowing core functional requirements to dictate the base architecture while drawing visual inspiration from 1920s and 1930s Art Deco automotive design.
- Dynamic Profile: Features a long, low forward body punctuated by a swooping tail.
- Ergonomics: The rear wedge curve nests directly into the palm, offering natural leverage when pushing through stubborn grain.
Materials & Construction
- Body Core: Constructed from deep Peruvian Walnut, flanked by 1/8″ Yellowheart sidewalls for high-contrast visual framing.
- Sole: A 1/8″ solid brass sole plate provides a flat, durable, low-friction base to ensure true $90^\circ$ reference angles.
- Alignment & Rigidity: Strategically placed brass alignment pins lock the laminated core and sidewalls together, delivering superior torsional strength under heavy cutting loads.
Gallery
