www.popularwoodworking.com ```html Opening: DIY Planing Stop for Woodworking Are you tired of your workpieces slipping while planing? A simple planing stop can be a game-changer, providing a solid and reliable surface to push against. This DIY version is inexpensive, easy to build, and will dramatically improve your planing experience. This guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, to create a custom planing stop that perfectly fits your workbench.
Materials and Tools: Before we begin, gather the necessary materials and tools:
- A piece of hardwood (maple, oak, beech are good choices) approximately 6" x 4" x 1". This will be the main body of the stop.
- A smaller piece of hardwood (same or different) approximately 2" x 2" x 1/2". This will be the cleat.
- Wood glue
- Screws (1 1/4" wood screws are recommended)
- Drill and drill bits (including a countersink bit)
- Saw (hand saw or table saw)
- Chisel (optional, for fine-tuning)
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Pencil
- Clamps
- Vise (optional, but helpful)
Step 1: Preparing the Main Body First, prepare the main body of the planing stop. Ensure your piece of hardwood is flat and square. If necessary, plane or sand it to achieve a smooth, even surface. This will provide a stable base for your workpiece.
Step 2: Creating the Cleat Next, prepare the cleat. This smaller piece of wood will act as a lip that butts up against your workbench, preventing the planing stop from moving. Make sure the cleat is square and its edges are clean.
Step 3: Attaching the Cleat Apply wood glue to one face of the cleat. Position the cleat flush with one edge of the main body, on the underside. Clamp the cleat securely to the main body.
Step 4: Securing with Screws While the glue is still wet (or partially cured), pre-drill pilot holes through the cleat and into the main body. Use the countersink bit to create a recess for the screw heads. Insert and tighten the wood screws, ensuring they are flush or slightly below the surface of the cleat. This will provide a strong and lasting bond.
Step 5: Sanding and Finishing Once the glue is completely dry (follow the glue manufacturer's instructions), remove the clamps. Sand the entire planing stop to remove any sharp edges or imperfections. Start with a coarser grit sandpaper (e.g., 120 grit) and gradually work your way up to a finer grit (e.g., 220 grit). Rounding over the edges slightly will improve comfort and prevent splintering. You can apply a finish (oil, wax, or varnish) to protect the wood and enhance its appearance.
Step 6: Testing and Adjustments Test the planing stop on your workbench. If the cleat doesn't fit snugly against the bench, you may need to slightly adjust it with a chisel or sandpaper. The planing stop should sit securely without wobbling.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your New Planing Stop! Congratulations, you've successfully built your own DIY planing stop! This simple yet effective tool will make your woodworking projects easier and more enjoyable. Remember to always use proper safety precautions when working with tools. Happy planing!
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