When I first started woodworking I was like most beginners; attracted to power tools. Sure, this was a fast way to get projects done, and not knowing any better, I was quite satisfied with the results. I guess, whenever you start a new hobby, any progress achieved makes you proud; as it should.
For a while now (3 years later) I’ve been getting into hand tools in a big way. The tool that started it all for me was the medium shoulder plane from Veritas. I ordered this tool and when it arrived I was stunned! What a beautiful tool! I sharpened the blade and started working with it that same day. I was very impressed with the improved accuracy of my mortise and tenon joints when they were cleaned up with this tool (before, I was cleaning them with my table saw).
I once read an article (can’t remember where) that said once you have 2 hand planes, they tend to multiply. Sure enough, my second plane was a Veritas block plane, then a smoother, then a jointer, then … you get the picture.
My woodworking is improving as I get more proficient with hand tools. Now, when I’m the in the shop, it’s the absence of the machine noise and dust that lets me enjoy this hobby even more. Of course I still use my table saw and the thickness planer for stock preparation, but that is what I now consider ‘grunt’ work. Once the stock is ready, out come the hand tools and the real fun starts.
Sorry for the pointless post, I just felt like saying those words.
Take care,
Stephane
