Philsville

Goncalo Alves

2012-02-10T08:16:00.003Z

Hi Folks

One of the most common questions I get is "why do you offer your planes in Goncalo Alves as an alternative to Beech?". So here's my reasons...

1: It's colour - the timber is an orangey brown when first worked and reminds me a lot of mahogany. Most planks also have some streaks of black through them, giving a striking individual look to each plane. And it darkens with age and exposure to light, giving it a deeper, handsome shade.
2: It's easily available in quartersawn planks. I spend way too much time searching for quality timber and it is especially difficult to find quartered Beech in the UK (which sounds crazy as Beech grows everywhere in these parts). So to be able to get hold of large (12/4) planks of decent quality quartersawn stock is a dream for me - and Goncalo is usually available in this form.
3: The timber is quite waxy. This varies from plank to plank, but I find on the whole Goncalo to be slightly waxy, which is great for a plane. In use I find the sole very quickly achieves a tough, slick patina, which is exactly what you want in a wooden plane.

It has interlocked grain like so many tropical timbers (and Goncalo reminds me of Mahogany a lot) and this varies from plank to plank. Some pieces plane easily, others require a high angle smoother and a fine cut to prevent deep tear-out. But I do enjoy working with it - it takes crisp detail and polishes up a treat.

So to summarise - it's a hard wearing, handsome timber that is perfect for wooden planes. It feels good in the hand, moves slickly over the work and looks good to the eye. What more could you ask for?

Cheers
Philly

New Plane #3

2012-02-03T10:48:00.005Z

Hi Folks

And here's the last of the three new models - the Snipes Bill.
This is an interesting looking plane with its swoopy, pointed profile. They work hand in hand with moulding planes to start and refine profiles and can also be used to define a gauge line for a rebate plane. The planes come as a matched pair allowing you to work with the grain on any profile (i.e. linenfold panels).
The planes are available to order now on the Phillyplanes website.

New Model #2 - Side Rounds

2012-02-03T10:37:00.004Z

Hi Folks
So here's the next model - the Side Round. This plane cuts a profile that is a quarter of a circle ( 90 degrees). You're probably thinking "well can't you do that with a moulding plane?". The Side Rounds secret weapon is it can cut right up to the edge of a corner - the side of the plane is vertical. So adding this plane to your arsenal of moulders will allow you to cut a much wider range of profiles.
The planes come as a matched left/right hand pair and are available to order now on the Phillyplanes website!

New Model #1 - Rebate Plane

2012-01-26T08:44:00.005Z

Hi Folks

Introducing new model #1 - The Rebate Plane

This plane is one that we get asked for a lot so it's about time it made its way onto our list of standard production planes. Perfect for making rebates, trimming shoulders and all of those tasks where you need to get "right into the corner".

We are using a 55 degree pitch with a 4mm thick iron for good performance on a wide range of timbers. The iron is square not skewed as in some planes - this makes the plane much easier to use AND sharpen. To begin we are offering this plane in 1 inch and 1 1/4 inch widths - the price is £140 for either.

The plane will be on the website shortly. In the meantime feel free to contact me directly for more information.

Philly

New Stuff.......

2012-01-23T19:44:00.007Z

Hi Folks

Got some exciting things cooking in the workshop at the moment. To get things started here's a photo of a "Philly Shave" I just completed in English Yew. I've not used Yew before and it was joy to use, revealing a lovely pattern to its growth rings as I shaped it. And a coat of oil really brought out the strong ornage colour of the wood - beautiful!

Email - I am finally giving up on Outlook and moving over to Googlemail. After yet another PC crash that has corrupted my email folders I am now using phillyplanes@googlemail.com as my main email address - please could you update your address books.

Facebook - yes, Philly Planes has finally got a Facebook page of its own. Please feel free to drop by and leave a comment - I shall endeavour to add lots of photo's and titbits that don't make it to the blog. The address is : www.facebook.com/phillyplanes

Finally, we have three new models to release. These will be up on the website (and premiered here first!) over the next week. Stay tuned - it's going to be a great 2012!!

Philly

Christmas is Coming.....

2011-12-10T19:09:00.005Z

Hi Folks

Been crazy busy here at Philly Towers - lots or orders coming in and plenty on the go. Some times there really aren't enough hours in the day, but it sure beats being quiet! I realised I haven't updated the blog for a while and the guilt has been weighing me down ;)

I recently was demonstrating at the Harrogate "North Of England Woodworking Show" and shared the bench with woodworking teacher Paul Sellers. It was very enjoyable watching him work - he has a down-to-earth, honest approach to woodworking. No special tools or jigs, just straightforward time-honoured ways to work. I fully recommend you check out his website, especially his blog - he offers hands-on training courses and also books and dvd's.

I am putting the finishing touches on a half set of Hollow and Rounds at the moment - these planes are a blast to use and it's amazing the variety of shapes you can unlease with just a few sets. On my site I offer two sizes to get you started but I can build any size you desire - just email me for more information.

Finally - a chamfer plane made from English Box. This plane is so useful and remarkably easy to use. This is the only one I've made from Box, and it really suits it.

So - back to the bench.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas,

Philly

European Woodworking Show

2011-09-27T13:51:00.002Z

Hi Folks

This weekend it's time for the European Woodworking Show, without doubt the best woodworking event in the UK (and Europe!). I'll be there showing my wares as well as demonstrating Lie-Nielsen tools so do make sure you pop by the bench and say "hi!".

The show is held in a wonderful setting at Cressing Temple, Braintree, Essex - there are two massive timber frame barns and beautiful surroundings. This is the third year of this show and there are some the best craftsmen and demonstrators from around the world attending - don't miss it!

Cheers

Philly

Happy Anniversary!

2011-09-07T06:46:00.005Z

Hi Folks
This month marks an important date for me - it is five years since I launched Philly Planes! It has been an exciting journey so far (especially in this finacially troubled world) but I'm pleased to say that we are busier than we've ever been! So I just wanted to thank all my customers past and present for their support and business over these past five years - I couldn't have done it without you!

This weekend I will be at the Yandles Woodworking Show near Yeovil - I'll be bringing along a new Toted Smoother for customers to try out. I really like this plane and I look forward to hearing peoples responses to it after they've had a go. So if you are attending do pop by and say "Hi" - I'll be on the Classic Hand Tools stand.

Finally, a couple of pictures of smoothers that have left the shop recently. One in Box (with some amazing figure!) and one in Blackwood.

Cheers
Philly

Website Back And Lefties...

2011-08-19T11:32:00.002Z

Hi Folks
After a short absence the Phillyplanes Website is back up - we've had a small series of disasters (hacked site, broken server, holidays...) which meant the site was offline for over a week. I'm pleased to say we are back up and running and I've taken steps to ensure it should not happen again. Thanks for your patience!

The new "Toted Smoother" is available on the website and we also pleased to offer our "Moving Fillister" plane in a left-handed model at no additional charge. Please drop me an email if this interests you.

Cheers
Philly

Web Site Problem

2011-08-04T10:42:00.002Z

Hi Folks

I'm having web site problems at the moment - they are being resolved as we speak and the site should be back ASAP. Otherwise things are business as usual and I am beavering away in the workshop on yet more planes - please email me if you have any questions while the web issue it sorted.

Cheers

Philly

New Plane - Toted Smoother

2011-08-02T19:30:00.006Z

Hi Folks
A plane I get asked for a lot is a Smoother with a handle. Over the years I've made a few for customers and a few for myself, trying out different styles. I am pleased to say I am finally happy with the shape and feel of the plane, so let me introduce the new Philly Planes "Toted Smoother".

I am offering this plane in two timbers - Goncalo Alves (as in the pictures) and traditional quartersawn English Beech. It has a 50mm wide iron, a chunky 4mm thick from O1 high carbon steel. The plane has a 50 degree pitch and, combined with a tight mouth and that lovely thick iron, makes for effortless smoothing. The Tote is extremely comfortable to hold and makes planing for extended periods a cinch.

The plane also features a rosewood strike button. As well as looking extemely handsome, this button is essential for releasing the wedge and adjusting the plane - without it you would need to tap the rear of the tote with a hammer. Instead the strike button takes all the wear.

A wooden smoothing is a fairly rare beast and I hope this model will appeal to users who maybe are used to using metal planes - the grip will feel instantly familiar. The plane will be appearing on the website in the next day or so - you can email me direct if you are interested in purchasing one. The price will be £230.00 plus shipping.

Cheers
Philly

Small Planes

2011-07-17T08:36:00.005Z

Hi Folks

I recently had a commission for a pretty unique plane - a Classic Smoother in African Blackwood. But half size! No big deal you may think, but it was quite a challenge. I have made a good selection of specialised tools for making planes but most were too big to use on this plane. So I ended up making yet more tools. And I often mutter to myself when working down in the throat of a plane how little space there is to work - with this plane there was even less!

But she came out well and the customer was very pleased - it now lives with in his collection of special planes.

Cheers

Philly

Long Planes....

2011-05-31T18:46:00.004Z

Hi Folks
Bench planes work best as a team - using a smoother to do all your planing work is not the most efficient way to work. A Jack plane will bring a rough board quickly into a workable state, ready to be made "tried and true" with a Try plane. The Try plane (or Jointer) has the longest sole of all bech planes and excels at making surfaces and edges flat and straight. The longer the sole, the truer it will plane. Even if you use machines to prepare your timber you will be surprised just how far from true those boards can be - a quick swipe with a Try plane will reveal the truth!
We had a quite a few long planes leaving the workshop over the last few months, some 30 inches long. That's longer than a #8! We are also able to customise planes to your intended purpose, so high/low pitch angles, different blade widths, timber choices and even 18 Century features like offset totes are available - you have only to ask.

Back to the bench....
Philly

High Angle Planes

2011-05-08T20:01:00.002Z

Hi Folks
When it comes to working timber with difficult grain (and it's always the pretty timbers that are the hardest to work!) a sharp iron and a tight mouth sometimes isn't enough. And that's when a high angle plane makes all the difference. My "Coffin Smoother" plane is bedded at 55 degrees - this is a great angle for a smoother as it has a positive effect on tear-out but is still pretty easy to push. But the toughest timbers sometimes need more and 60 degrees is what you need.
A customer asked for a pair of planes with 60 degree beds, a smoother and a Try plane. The smoother (above) is made from English Box, a very slow growing and dense timber. Box was used for the finest grade planes and tools in days past and I was pleased to be able to make this plane from this wonderful timber.
The second plane is an 18 inch Try plane in Goncalo Alves and this is an excellent tool to compliment the Smoother. The longer sole allows you to easily flatten boards, and, as the plane has the high angle bed, tear-out is not an issue.

Cheers
Philly

Les Paul...

2011-04-19T18:46:00.004Z

Hi Folks

As most of you know I play guitar as well as make planes. Being a woodworker who plays guitar, the first thing people say is "have you made your own guitar?" and over the last year I have finally been making a guitar or two for my own enjoyment, not just to be able to answer "Yes" to the question ;)

This week I have completed a guitar I've always lusted after - a classic cherry sunburst Les Paul. I think it came out rather well for a humble planemaker - I won't give up the day job just yet, though.

By the way, what do you think of the headstock logo?

Cheers

Philly

Custom Planes For Custom Furniture?

2011-03-22T21:00:00.004Z

Following on from the last blog entry about customising a plane order, a recent customer wanted a Moulding plane of a specific (non-standard) size for a commision he was building. Joel Marshall is a furniture maker in Bristol and was working on a design for a coffee table. The design (see below) has radiused corners as a feature and he contacted me about building a plane to make it possible to cut these curves by hand. I was quite happy to do this and he in turn told his customer he was getting a traditional hand plane made specifically to build their table - the customer was very pleased about this!

As you can see, the table came out beautifully, a testament to Joel's skills. You can see more of his work on his website, here.

Philly

Left Hooker

2011-01-30T19:42:00.002Z

Hi Folks
I often get asked to make small customisations to planes when customers are placing an order. One I occasionally get is "can you make it left handed?", and the answer is "Yes!". As I make each plane one at a time its not exactly a problem to make these changes, although making a left handed plane does involve me being extra vigilent - it's way too easy to make cuts on the wrong side or wrong direction. Each operation has to be checked and double checked to make sure its properly oriented, especially on a skewed iron plane like this Fillister. It's also quite funny watching me test drive a left handed plane (although I am becoming slowly ambidextrous)
So here we have a perfect example of a custom order. A Moving Fillister plane, but made from Rosewood. And left handed, off course!

Cheers,

Philly

And Then...

2011-01-17T19:38:00.003Z

Hi Folks
Here's another couple of planes for your enjoyment. First up a Moulding plane.
This one was a commission for a furniture maker who was asked to make a piece for a customer with a 20mm radius on the edges - I was happy to make a 20mm radius Moulding plane for him to do this, making for a happy customer.

Next is a Coffin Smoother in Beech - I'm really pleased with the shape and proportions of my smoother. It's very comfortable in the hand and allows you to grip it in many different ways, something that isn't possible with planes that have handles. And the traditional choice of Beech makes for a handsome plane!

On the bench is something in Rosewood. Pics soon!

Cheers

Philly

P.s. - The title refers to a scene from one of my favourite films, "Dude, Where's My Car". Chinese takeout anyone?

First Out The Door..

2011-01-12T09:00:00.007Z

HI Folks

The first planes of the year are on their way - a Miter Plane and a Panel Raiser.

The Miter Plane was one of my first models, and I've subtly tweaked its styling over the years. It's a low angle plane with its iron seated bevel down at 38 degrees. This is 7 degrees lower than a standard bench plane and makes a significant difference when planing end grain, a job this plane was designed for. Its big sides have a large footprint when using it on the shooting board, making it very stable. And the monster 6mm thick iron adds some real heft to the plane!

The Panel Raiser is a very tricky plane to make due to its skewed iron and profiled sole. I've made a few over the years and always look forward to the task - it makes for a very special plane. And to make your own raised panels without the danger of spindle moulders or large router bits flying about makes a lot of sense
!

Back to the bench.....

Philly

New Year

2011-01-06T18:57:00.007Z

Hi Folks

A Happy New Year to you all! Can't believe I've been so behind with my blog - needless to say my resolution is to remedy that! 2010 was a very busy year for me, even though the world seemed to have closed down with financial shock. Hopefully we are on the road to recovery and 2011 will be a much more positive year.

So - to begin the year a video interview with your truly. Many thanks to Tom Sustins from "The Wood Haven" forum for coming down to see me at the workshop and taping this interview. There is also a 'shop tour and some helpful tips and hints which will be coming up soon in additional clips. It's well worth taking a look at the Wood Haven forum - a very welcoming place and a hive of shared knowledge.

I have some new plane models in the pipeline and these will be introduced in the coming weeks - more news soon!

Cheers

Philly

Rosewood

2010-11-09T21:44:00.001Z

Hi Folks
Thought I'd share a photo of a Mini Panel Raiser that has recently made its way to a new owner. Made from a piece of Rosewood I've been hoarding away for years, it looks pretty stunning. And the customer is rather pleased, too, so I'm a happy camper.
I have some other exotic timbered beauties on the bench at the moment - more pics to follow.... ;)
Cheers
Philly

Irons and More Irons

2010-10-24T18:37:00.005Z

Apologies for the lack of blog entries lately - between building planes, playing with the band and taking a small holiday the month has disappeared!

First up - planes. Moving Fillisters are the current fave - I've shipped two and have a few more underway in a selection of timbers. Pics of some special planes coming soon!
I recently made a Coffin Smoother for Richard Maguire, maker of fine workbenches. He wanted the plane made with an early 18C style iron with the rounded top, which I was happy to oblige. If you would like your plane with a similar iron just let me know when you place the order - no extra charge for this.

I've also been making plane irons for customers - see the photo of a replacement iron for an infill shoulder plane. The original iron has seen some serious use and was completely used up - I was able to make a replacement for the customer which gives his plane another lifetime of use. If you need a replacement iron for a special plane or if you are thinking of building your own plane then drop me an email - I can make you a high carbon steel blade to pretty much any dimension.

Finding a little spare time in the workshop isn't easy when you are trying to be self-disciplined, but I've managed to do a little work on some projects. I've started a Maloof style rocking chair, which is a project I've always wanted to attempt. While in the States the other month I was able to get my hands on a set of plans and a DVD - this set is now available from Classic Hand Tools in the UK. I've got the chairs seat made up and the main components cut out - this week I intend to get the leg joints cut so I can fit them to the seat. I'll get some photo's taken once it looks like a chair :)

Cheers

Philly

European Woodworking Show

2010-09-30T16:58:00.006Z

Hi Folks

No sooner is one Woodworking show over than another comes knocking!

Things have been busy at the 'shop - plenty of planes flying out the door. I've also managed to do a little timber shopping and have some lovely pieces sat on the drying shelves for the future. I've also managed to finish another guitar - this time a Les Paul. There's full step-by-step photo's of the build here..

Tomorrow I set off for the European Woodworking show in Essex. This is the second year of this event and it promises to be a corker! Hopefully I'll see you there - I'll report back with some photo's from the show early next week.

Other news - I notice Sawmakers Mike Wenzloff and the team have launched a new website for their wonderful saws. Well worth a look!

Cheers

Philly

Festival Of The Tree

2010-08-25T07:33:00.003Z

Hi Folks

It's that time of the year again - time for the "Festival of the Tree" at Westonbirt Arboretum. This is a wonderful event in a beautiful setting- every possible wood related discipline is represented and there's tons of things for the family to do while you drool over the hand tools!

This will be my third year demonstrating at this show and I'm real excited this year to be demonstrating Lie-Nielsen tools. I'll also have a display of my own planes present, so don't panic.

If you are attending make sure you come by my bench and say "Hi"!

On another note, I have actually finished a project I've been working on for the last few months. It's an electric guitar - a Gibson SG replica. She's come out pretty well - I've put step-by-step on my Philsville site for you to see how she was constructed.

Cheers

Philly

Coffin Smoother Upgraded

2010-08-10T19:14:00.005Z

Hi Folks

One of the things I like about my job is the chance to make more than one of an item - when I build projects for the home they are usually one-offs and I never get to make them again (without the mistakes!). But over these last few years I've made many hundreds of planes - I'm pleased to say that I am still improving and refining them. And I'd like to introduce the latest refinements to my "Coffin Smoother" plane.

With the popularity of my "Classic Smoother" model I've been wanting to bring my Coffin smoother into line with its traditional looks and chamfers. So I've subtly altered the shape and added interesting period details to it. And after much testing (by myself and dozens of eager volunteers at shows) I'm pleased to say it has made the plane not only more handsome but much more comfortable to use - the flare of the body fits the hand perfectly!

I've also upgraded the iron to a full 4mm thick high carbon steel - its a BIG iron without being ridiculous. And you notice it in use - the iron doesn't even blink on even the gnarliest of timbers. The iron is also now 50mm wide (about 2 inches) making it the perfect smoother for your workshop.

So I hope you like the upgrades to this model - its not just some "go-faster" stripes added to spruce it up. Its a ground-up improvement that builds on the lessons I've learned from building planes. And did I mention she's a handsome looking plane, too!

Cheers

Philly

P.s. And no, it's not called a "coffin smoother" because it was used to plane coffins - the name refers to the coffin shaped curves of the sole!

Back To It..

2010-08-06T08:10:00.004Z

HI Folks

Since my return from the States I've been back at the bench, beavering away at the batch of planes. I've also had some interesting ideas for new models, and will be showing some prototypes over the next few weeks.

First up - a customer wanted me to build him a smoother using an old toothing blade that he supplied. I was quite happy to do this and was looking forward to using it - while at the Lie-Nielsen factory I had opportunity to use their #62 with a toothed blade to flatten some gnarly stock.
I'm pleased to say it came out very nicely and hope to introduce my own toothing plane model in the near future.

I've also shipped another of my flagship model, the PPA5. This one again in African Blackwood, a beautiful and dense timber. I am now out of any suitable large pieces of this timber, so if anyone knows of a UK supplier I would be very grateful.

The "Festival Of The Tree" at Westonbirt is help at the end of August - I'll there over the four days demonstrating my planes and also giving a talk in the Masterclass tent. So if you are attending please drop on by and say hello!

Cheers

Philly

Open Day Video

2010-07-23T20:08:00.004Z

HI Folks

Just a little update to my last entry. Lie-Nielsen have put up a video of their open day, showing a lot more of the demonstrators present as well as more shots of that delicious seafood! Well worth a view...

Lie-Nielsen Open Day

Cheers

Philly

Trip To Maine

2010-07-22T09:20:00.011Z

HI Folks

I’ve always wanted to make the journey to the Lie-Nielsen factory in Warren, Maine – it’s been a dream of mine since I’ve been into woodworking. And while I have met Tom Lie-Nielsen a few times at various woodworking events it’s taken until now for me to realize that dream of a “factory tour”.

So – my trip was multi-faceted. First, a tour of the factory to see how everything was made, seeing the journey from raw materials to the completed tools being packed and shipped. Next a few days training on-site (more on this later) and finally to demonstrate my planes at the open day weekend at the factory, topped off with a Lobster bake!

The Factory

We were staying in Portland, a town about 60 miles south of the toolworks location. So each day started with a coffee and a drive through the beautiful Maine countryside. The factory appears just off the main road in picturesque fashion, and we turn in and park up. The building itself has been extended many times as the company has grown over the years and looked just as I imagined it. Additional buildings have been erected alongside to house more machinery and storage – these buildings were also erected by the staff. During my many chats with staff members it was obvious how proud they were of the facility and the work they do.

We were given a tour of the facility, which has separate areas for storage, tool machining, saw making, handle manufacture, finishing and polishing, blade manufacture and packing. There is a also a handsome shop/display area with all the range of tools on display and available to try out.

Two things that stood out to me most as we were shown around were :

Each family of tools is made by a set team of makers – i.e. all block planes are made by the same team, and they have their own area complete with the tools and machinery they need. There was no “sharing” of machinery – each team had their own area and specialized in their own range of tools.

There was a huge amount of hand work involved in the making of every tool. You imagine that with modern day CNC machinery you would put raw material in one end and finished tools appear magically at the other end – this could be no further away from the truth! There was a small army of workers who specialise in particular skills, and it was quite heart-warming to see.

I was quite amazed to see the saw making shop – this had a collection of interesting machinery. Tooth cutting machines, tooth filing machines, machined modified to perform specific tasks and a man called Patrick. Patrick makes all the Lie-Nielsen hand saws and hand files and tests every single one! We were treated to a saw sharpening demonstration by Tom Lie-Nielsen (on a staggeringly hot day which took ones breath away) and shown the many steps in a saws manufacture – very low tech and definitely not the modern day super efficient production style I was expecting.

The irons for all the Lie-Nielsen planes and shaves are also made in-house. There are many steps in the manufacture, including heat treating, tempering and cryo treatment. There is a small crew of skilled workers who do this work, and throughout the week I was able to watch them at work – it was amazing how many steps were involved in the making a blade the Lie-Nielsen way and also the amount of times each individual blade was checked throughout the process, from grinding the raw blank through to the final hand lapping of the back.

We were treated to a tour of the bench making shop – this is at a separate workshop nearby. It was quite impressive to see huge amounts of maple being turned into accurate and sturdy workbenches. Shop manager Darren is a stickler for perfection and it was very enlightening to see the amount of time and care that goes into each bench.

Tom Lie-Nielsen gave us a sneak preview of many of the tools soon to be reaching production, as well as some interesting ideas he has in the pipeline. I’ve been sworn to secrecy, but there some real treats ahead!

As I mentioned earlier, I was at the factory for a few days training on too demonstrating. We had three days tuition from Deneb Puchalski , aided by the team of L-N demonstrators Alex, Lee, Curtis and Jeremy (apologies if I missed anyone!). It was very enjoyable, despite the high temperatures and humidity of the Maine summer, and I came away topped up with information, ideas and enthusiasm. Expect to see me at a woodworking show near you demonstrating these great tools soon!

The final days of my trip were the “open day” event. The factory was thrown open to the public, with tool demonstrations from Lie-Nielsen as well as other craftsmen like Michel Auriou, Chris Becksvoort, Al Breed, Kevin Drake and myself. It was a busy couple of days and it was great to meet and talk to so many passionate American woodworkers. The finale of the open day was the “Lobster Bake” – fresh Maine lobster and mussels cooked on a barbeque at the rear of the factory! Boy did that taste good (washed down with a cold beer!) A great way to end the week.

After reflecting on my trip the main thing that stood out to me was the tools – Lie-Nielsen tools are made with care and attention, with huge amounts of hand work by a hard working team of American workers. The factory was much closer in spirit to the way I work in my one-man workshop that to a modern production factory and I am amazed that they are able to sell their beautiful tools at such reasonable prices and still make a modest profit. Truly these are “heirloom” tools, tools to be proud and worthy of a place in our tool chests.

My thanks again to Tom and his wonderful staff for looking after us so well on this trip.

Cheers

Philly

More partidge wood...

2010-07-07T18:22:00.005Z

Hi Folks
I've got a fair selection of exotic timbers hoarded away in the workshop. Small pieces, not-so-small pieces and many different types. One I've been wanting to use is Partridge wood - I don't know much about it but I do know its extremely dense. And yes, it does sink in water - I've tried! Recently I made a 2 inch wide smoother for myself from this timber and was very impressed with the beautiful grain - supposedly the timber gets its name from the way the grain resembles partridge feathers. A customer called to place an order recently and mentioned this plane after seeing it in this blog. After searching through my timber store I found a single piece just big enough for a plane and wedge, so the customer was very pleased (and so was I to be using this lovely timber again).
Here's a shot of the plane before any shaping is done on the body - I cut all the important stuff first and do the fun shaping stuff when everything fits and works.

And here's a photo of the completed plane - and a sweet little thing she is too :)

I've also started another guitar project - after seeing Paul Weller in action with his trusty '60's Gibson SG I had to have one. But after finding out the price I decided to build my own. I've keeping a photo diary here on my Philsville site.

Next week sees me travelling to the States to Maine and the Lie-Nielsen factory. I'm really looking forward to this trip, a dream trip for me. Needless to say, I'll be taking plenty of photographs. And if you're attending the open day please come by my bench and say "hello!"

Cheers
Philly

A Pair of Pairs...

2010-06-30T07:19:00.006Z

Hi Folks
Seems I've been making a few pairs of planes recently. First up are some Moulding Planes, #2 and #4 size hollow and rounds from some perfect English Beech.

Next we have a pair of Luthiers Scrub planes - these have cambered soles, both front-to-back and side-to-side. This pair are made from Pau Rosa and they are huge fun to use - you can almost make a bowl with one of these!

Back to the bench - my last piece of Partridge wood is becoming a plane.....

Cheers
Philly

Summer is Here!

2010-06-09T19:59:00.007Z

Hi Folks

Its been "busy busy busy" here at the workshop. The lovely weather we've been having lately has even got me wearing shorts - but worry not, there are no photo's of that to hurt anyone's eyes.... ;)

Orders have been pouring in, I guess helped by the recent weakness of the Pound. But that's fine - I certainly pleased to be inundated with work! And now for some photo's....

Philly Shaves - one in Oak, one in Walnut. I do enjoy making these tools, and they feel so much better in use than metal shaves, a much different experience.

Next up is Skew Miter with a Philly Shooting Board. I don't offer the Shooting board on my website as the shipping can work out expensive. But its such a useful workshop fixture - once you use one you'll wonder how you ever managed without one. I've also been making a left-handed Skew Miter, which tests the brain even harder than usual. Lots of checking, checking again and then maybe one more check before making a cut.

A plane I've been wanting to make for a few years now is a baby version of my Miter plane. Mike Wenzloff has asked me a few times to make one for his lovely Wife - I've finally made a prototype so maybe now I can send one his way. It's a 3/4 size version, and is essentially a block plane, perfect for one handed use. My prototype has seen lots and lots of use so I'm about to make the first production models and will have them on the website soon.

And finally, so exciting news. I'll be at the Lie-Nielsen hand tools event at their factory in Maine next month demonstrating some of my planes. So if you're thinking of attending please come on by and say "Hi!".

Bye for now,

Philly

Partridge and Box

2010-04-22T18:51:00.005Z

Hi Folks

The Yandles show was very enjoyable - thanks to all that called by to say "Hi!" and have a play with a plane. The verdict on the new 2 inch smoother shape was a big thumbs up, so I'm making a couple more to photograph and put on the website. One is from a piece of Partridge wood, a timber I've never come across before. It is extremely dense, possibly the heaviest timber I've worked - its easily as heavy as Lignum or Blackwood. I've managed to keep a little streak of sapwood on the one side - I need another couple of days to finish it off, but it looks very promising.

I've almost completed another Try plane, too. I love making these - I'll be adding these to the website as a standard item soon, along with Jointers. 30 inch Jointer anyone?

Here's some pics of a Boxwood Classic Smoother that shipped this week - it had some lovely streaks of colour and plenty of birds eye. Pretty rare for Box - and a treat to work!

Cheers
Philly

Show Time....

2010-04-07T18:22:00.004Z

Hi Folks

Yandles Woodworking Show is upon us again - seems only weeks since the last one. Time certainly flies! I'll be there with the Classic Hand Tools Team displaying my wears - and also this little beauty.....

It's a smoother in Pau Rosa with a 2 inch wide blade - essentially a scaled up "Classic Smoother". I've been meaning to make this for a while and I'm very pleased with it. It'll be on the bench for Folks to play with at the show, so don't be shy! Depending on feedback I may make it a standard model.

Cheers

Philly

Spring Is In The Air

2010-03-18T20:06:00.004Z

Hi Folks

Last weekend I was at the GetWoodworking Live show at Alexandra Palace - I gave a presentation each day on using and restoring wooden planes. It was an enjoyable show, although a little nerve-wracking giving the presentation!

Plenty of handsome planes have been making their way out of the workshop - a Coffin Smoother in Santos Rosewood, lots of Chamfer Planes and plenty of Mini Panel Raisers. The Plough plane is coming along nicely and I should have some photo's soon to share.

I've also been making quite a few custom plane irons lately - as I make the irons for my planes myself I am quite happy to make custom irons for any project you may be planning. I'll also be introducing a small range of plane irons in the near future - more details soon. Drop me an email if you're like to find out more.

With Spring approaching I've been getting the workshop re-arrange itch - I spent a couple hours today clearing out off-cuts of timber, cleaning up sawdust and various little tasks this afternoon. And I've had some interesting ideas for modifications to my bench - pics soon!

Cheers

Philly

Latest Planes And News......

2010-02-22T19:31:00.007Z

Hi Folks

Been a crazy month here at the workshop - planes left, right and centre. The "Moving Fillister" has been real popular as has the new "Chamfer Plane". I've also just shipped another Classic Smoother is Blackwood, an amazing piece of timber.

I'm currently making pairs of Hollow and Round moulding planes and I've slipped a pair in for myself from some slightly spalted beech that I've been hoarding away. Pics soon! Another plane that is slowly coming together is my much anticipated Plough plane - I've been slowly working on the prototype and it's looking good.

The band has been busy too - we played in Dublin this weekend (a fantastic place!), Rotherham and Leeds last weekend and Doncaster and Basingstoke next weekend. So a busy time for The Lambrettas, but so much fun.

Appearing rapidly over the horizon is the Get-Woodworking Live show at Alexandra Palace on the 12th-14th of March. I'll be giving a masterclass on wooden planes - their history and use, how to set-up and maintain them, and some useful hints and tips to get the most out of your tools. Hope to see you there,

Philly

Rosewood Fillister and Mini-Panel Raiser

2010-01-28T19:55:00.005Z

Hi Folks
Thought you might like a look at the latest pair of planes I've completed. The customer wanted something a little special for the timber and chose Rosewood - so please say hello to the Rosewood Moving Fillister and Mini Panel Raiser!
There was a lot more work involved in the finishing of the Rosewood compared to Beech, but it was well worth it as they look a million dollars (they didn't cost that though, you'll be pleased to know!)
If you would like a custom plane just drop me an email or check out my website at www.phillyplanes.co.uk for more details.
Cheers
Philly

Winding Sticks

2010-01-15T14:43:00.004Z

Hi Folks
Already we're halfway through January - times flies! The new Chamfer plane is now available from our Website - it's been a very popular plane already and one that I've been using myself a lot lately. I'm building bunk beds for my daughter and it was the perfect tool for putting chamfers on the many rails and stiles.

Another new product for 2010 are "Winding Sticks". We get asked for these a lot and are pleased to be able to offer these useful tools - they allow you to check a surface for twist or "wind". Being able to plane surfaces flat and free of wind will take your woodworking to higher levels of precision, with projects that fit together perfectly instead of needing huge amounts of clamping pressure to pull them into "square".
Our Winding Sticks are made from quartersawn Paduak, a dense and stable timber. They are hand planed into perfectly matched pairs and are inlayed with brass center marks. A maple insert is fitted to one of the stick to make it easier to read the amount of wind. They are hand finished with blonde shellac and come ready to use. Price is £40 plus shipping - please email me for enquiries.

Philly

Xmas Present

2009-12-17T18:29:00.003Z

Hi Folks
Been a busy month here in the workshop. Lots of orders, and pressure to get them out for Christmas, but its been a good time - I thoroughly enjoy making planes. And I find it amazing that Philly Planes is now in its third year of business. So as a thank you to all my customers present and past I'm offering a 25% discount on my "Classic Smoother" plane with the Karl Holtey iron through to the end of January (or until I run out of irons from my current batch). I have some lovely Santos Rosewood, English Boxwood and a small amount of African Blackwood. I also have some other rare exotics available - email me if you are interested.
So -thank you again for your continued support, encouragement and custom. A Merry Christmas to you all.
Philly

The Chamfer Plane

2009-11-26T10:34:00.003Z

Hi Folks

Some exciting news - a new plane model! Introducing the "Chamfer Plane"....

This is a simple but joyful little plane. You set the adjustable fence to the width of the chamfer you need, set the iron for a suitable depth of cut and get planing! Once the full profile is cut the plane stops cutting - simple. And it works great on end grain, too.

I'll be making this plane in English Beech and Goncalo Alves - more details will be on my website soon. I've also put together a small video of the plane in action - see below.

If you are interested in owning one of these babies just drop me an email.

Cheers

Philly

Rosewood and the 100

2009-11-18T20:31:00.004Z

HI Folks
Just about finished the second "Inphil" plane - it works really nicely, and looks suitably handsome in the tradition of infill panel planes. The timber on this one is Santos Rosewood, a favourite of mine - very dense and wonderful figuring. Smells nice, too!
One of the reasons for building this plane was to try a longer soled smoother - being a longer plane also adds additional weight. My initial thoughts were that it was un-necessary and I kept wanting to reach for the shorter smoother. But I'll perservere with it for a bit longer and see if it converts me.

Other exciting news - The Lambrettas played the 100 Club in London on the weekend. It was a real buzz to play at such a famous venue - the list of famous bands and artists who have played there over the last half a century is quite mindblowing! The walls were plastered with atmospheric photo's and it felt really amazing to be playing there. We were supported by The Teenbeats and Long Tall Shorty, so it was an entertaining (and long) evening.

So with my feet back on the ground I'm beavering away in the workshop - this week see's Skew Miters and a Fillister underway.

Cheers

Philly

On The Porch..

2009-11-12T20:01:00.002Z

HI Folks
I've been doing more work on the second Inphil prototype and its coming together nicely - I tested it out with a spare iron and it worked very nicely with minial tuning, a good sign. I have some final sanding to do and the finish to apply and I'll take some decent photo's. Here's a picture of it next to the first.

Had a customer collect two Jack planes yesterday - one had a convex sole to make coopered doors. The customer specified Rosewood handles, wedges and strike buttons - I think they look good against the Beech.

And I actually did some woodwork that was NOT plane related! I'm building a porch for the house from Oak - today (with the help of my trusty shop buddy Mr X) we fitted the main framework after trimming back the blockwork for a good fit. Typically the heavens opened before I was able to get a coat of varnish on it - I await tomorrow morning with crossed fingers that I don't wake up to blackened oak.

'til tomorrow....

Philly

Beech

2009-11-05T18:15:00.002Z

Hi Folks
The traditional timber choice in wooden planemaking is quartersawn beech. The main reasons for its use are its toughness, ease of availability (at least in the UK) and, when quartersawn, its pretty stable. Beech is a very plain looking timber - white with faint grain markings and very tight grain. The pores are virtually invisible. But when quartersawn the medullary rays appear and transform this plain timber into something quite wonderful - to my eyes the ray figuring gives the appearance of scales on a fish, shimmering and darting. A coat of oil makes the effect pop right out of the timber.
I find getting hold of quartersawn stock to be extremely difficult, but the search is well worth it. The picture above hardly does the timber justice, but hopefully gives an impression of how handsome it can look.

On other matters, I've started work on a second "Inphill" plane. A slightly different design to the A6 inspired original, but I'm very excited about it. Hopefully it'll be ready for some pictures in a few days and you can tell me what you think.

To the 'bench.....

Philly

In The 'Shop...

2009-11-04T19:48:00.004Z

HI Folks

With the nights drawing in and the temperature dropping, its been quite pleasant working away in my little workshop. With plenty of light, a warm/dry atmosphere and the iPod playing away in the background it makes me want to get in there and make planes! Which is a good thing...... ;) And the foam mats I fitted on the floor are great - they've already saved a few chisels from dinged edges!

With the Post Office strikes and disruptions over the last few weeks and possibly into the coming weeks out deliveries have been rather hit and miss. But I only use courier delivery for my planes, which is uneffected by the disruptions -so if you are considering ordering a plane, have no worries about it being delayed.

Remember the Infill prototype from the last blog entry? I've been giving it some serious use over the last few weeks and I'm very impressed with its performance. So I'm working on a second, slightly larger version. Pictures soon!

On the bench at the moment are a pair of Jack planes. One is to have a profiled sole so the customer can make coopered doors. They are both from English Beech, with the handles, wedges and strike buttons from Rosewood. Again, pics will be along soon - the Beech has some wonderful ray figuring.

Lambrettas News!
We play the 100 Club, London on the 15th of November. Support from Long Tall Shorty and The Teenbeats, so it should be quite a night! More details on our Facebook page.....

Cheers

Philly

New Ideas......

2009-10-22T19:16:00.003Z

Hi Folks
As most of you probably know, I can't help but keep experimenting with planes. Different timbers, angles, materials - you name it, I'll try it. And while relaxing in a hot bath the other evening I had another idea! Infills.......
Now - I love making wooden planes, so you don't have to worry about me going off and building infills (although customers have been asking me for a reasonably priced infill). I have made a few prototype Norris style smoothers, but completely from wood, and they never look quite right due to the thickness of the side walls. There's a minimum thickness you can get away with in wood, and it didn't always look right. So I had this idea about a plane with brass side walls, an infill but no metal sole - the infill make the sole! So you have an infill with a slippery wooden sole........
I just happened to have some offcuts of brass suitable, and doing a bit here and there, I've reached the point where the plane is usable - what do you think?
The plane works very nicely, taking sub-thou shavings easily. I'm going to a woodworking bash at Waka's in Weymouth on the weekend and will taking it along with me for some feedback. And remember where you saw this plane first.......... ;)

A customer wanted a coffin smoother in Beech, but styled after my Classic Smoother. So who am I to disappoint :) I really like this plane - its a good size but still comfortable to grip. So I may well be making this my standard design inthe future - stay tuned.

Back to the bench - Fillisters await!

Cheers

Philly

A Softer Floor

2009-10-12T19:06:00.003Z

HI Folks

As I mentioned in the last blog entry, I was awaiting a delivery of foam floor tiles for the workshop. They turned up bright and early today - a pleasant surprise! I bought them from a trader on Ebay, and a very good prove they were too - four packs of four tiles, each two foot square, for £25. Enough to do the main areas of the workshop.

It only took five minutes to put them in place (after a quick sweep up of the sawdust). The tiles click together easily and, to complicate matters, are grey on one side, and bright red, blue, yellow or green on the reverse. I went with the boring grey, although may change my mind one day if I'm truly bored ;)

The tiles feel good underfoot - soft enough to take the pressure off, but tough enough for workshop life. I must say I wish I had bought some years ago. At the end of work today my legs felt fine - a result!

Now - about getting that coffee machine plumbed into the 'shop............ ;)

Cheers

Philly

Ebony Miter

2009-10-12T07:37:00.004Z

Hi Folks

Here's another pretty plane - a Skew Miter in Macassar Ebony. I love the look of the dark timbers, they give a real sense of solidity. This particular plane is also a few inches longer than usual, at the customers request.

It's the first time I've used Ebony and I was surprised how easy it was to plane - I was expecting it to be "tear-out central". And it takes a lovely polish. Needless to say, I can see me using this wonderful timber again in the near future.

Something I've been toying with for a long time is the issue of my concrete floor. Standing at the bench all day, a concrete floor can take its toll on your legs. So I have just invested in foam floor tiles - they should arrive early this week. I'll let you know if they make a significant difference.

Cheers

Philly

And Planes For Other People.....

2009-10-07T17:12:00.003Z

Following on from the title of the last blog entry, here's a few planes that have been finished in the workshop recently.First up, a Jointer. Made from Ovangkol, a very tough African hardwood, with a norris style adjuster and brass screw cap. The timber looks wonderful - a coat of oil makes the figure spring into 3D. I've just had an email from the new owner, who had this to say - "The jointer exceeds all expectations. I had to use it today on some pretty difficult Bubinga and it made short work of it. It is rare to have a tools which is beautiful, so well finished and which performs brilliantly!" I'm guessing he's happy with it ;)

Next up are a pair of panel raising planes - the customer supplied a drawing with the panel dimensions for me to work from. Both planes are from quartered

English beech, and it has some wonderful ray figuring. It reminds me of the scales of a fish, shimmering as you walk past it. It's funny how such a humble and plain timber like beech turns into a thing of beauty when cut on the quarter.

And finally, another jointer. Well actually, a Try plane. This one is going to a US customer who I recently made a 30 inch Jointer - this is a "baby" one to complement it. The rear tote on this plane is offset to the right, as was the traditional placement of 18th Century planes. It feels very natural in use and makes me wonder why the rear handle is now placed in the centre.

There's plenty of other interesting planes on the go, including an Ebony Skew Miter. Pics soon!

Cheers

Philly

Other Peoples Planes...

2009-10-02T18:43:00.006Z

HI Folks

Had a visitor to the workshop this week who wanted to choose the timber for his plane. He also brought some very lovely goodies along with him for me to see. First up, a Stanley 444. This is a plane for cutting sliding dovetails, and cuts both male AND female parts of the joint.

I'd only seen this plane in Garrett Hack's book, so was surprised to see how big it is in the flesh. This particular plane was complete, with both fences and accessories. It had been re-plated, and looked absolutely immaculate. Jealous? Who, me?

The second goodie was a smoother - a Philip Marcou.

I was rather shocked at the weight of this plane (which I believe is the S15) I have a bronze Lie-Nielsen 4 1/2 which I think is at the limit of how heavy a plane should be - the Marcou is heavier again! It is very nicely made and, as it is bevel up, features an adjustable mouth. One thing I noticed - it was smothered in lanolin. The reason for this was to protect the brass and bronze from oxidising. This seemed to be working as the plane was like new, so this is an area I would like to experiment with.

Over at the bench the panel raising planes are almost complete. I've just applied the oil to them so tomorrow will give them a test run and they'll be ready to ship. I've also completed the Jointer with the norris adjuster - it looks awesome. Ovangkol is a beautiful timber with wonderful chatoyance. I'll get the camera out tomorrow for a photo shoot.

Finally, I'm sad to be missing the Woodworking In America conference. Mike Wenzloff was kind enough to offer me space at his bench, but with my recent show schedule, as well as making planes, it just wasn't possible to make it. Philly Planes in Philly seemed a match made in heaven ;) So my thoughts are of all the lucky woodworkers who are able to attend - have a blast!

Cheers

Philly

With Knobs On.....

2009-09-28T19:20:00.004Z

Hi Folks
Been enjoying myself today, back at the 'bench. The sun was shining, the tools were sharp and I've got some fun planes on the go. Two jointers and two panel raisers. There's a kind of symmetry to it ;)

One thing I've been doing is turning front knobs for a plane. We are all familiar with the standard "Bailey" front knob - like a ball with a stem. Its easy to grip but I do find it a little uncomfortable if you have to use it for a long period of time - then the older style "mushroom" grip is much nicer. I have an old pre-war Stanley #6 that has both handles re-made by the original owner - the rear tote is slightly shorter than standard and feels "compact". I think he must of had smaller hands than me. But the front knob is a slightly fat mushroom shape and is totally gorgeous :) I also like the feel of the one on the Veritas Low Angle Jack.

So I've been turning up half a dozen variations to find my favourite - turning is not my first love, but I do enjoy it once I get into it. And I can now supply my customer with a plane with a choice of front knobs that will suit his hands, not just my own.

Cheers

Philly

Phew...

2009-09-23T20:10:00.004Z

Hi Folks

Well I'm safely back in the workshop. Three shows in four weeks is too much - there's only one of me, after all ;)

Cressing Temple was an enormous success - the location was perfect, the range of exhibits wide and there was a real buzz in the air. Everyone was catered for (even the children - there was a storyteller stroller the site entertaining the young, and not so young, ones)

The hand tool barn was packed with quality - David Charlesworth, Clifton, Konrad Sauer, Lie-Nielsen, John Lloyd, Veritas (complete with two of their designers, direct from Canada!), Richard Maguire with his awesome handmade workbenches, instrument makers and many many more, including my good self.

It is always a pleasure to chat with everyone who comes by the bench at shows- the feedback and encouragement really re-charges my batteries and reinforces my belief in what I am doing. Cheers!

So back in the 'shop I am working on a Jointer plane in Ovangkol. I finished making the lever cap and norris adjuster yesterday and will have the plane together and running today. Then I can start detailing it and apply the finish - this timber really comes alive when the oil goes on!

Had a visit from a Canadian customer this week - he wanted to collect his Skew Miter plane while visiting England on holiday. Always nice to have visitors at the 'shop - if you're ever in this part of the country drop me a line and come by for a cuppa and a tour!

Cheers

Philly

European Woodworking Show

2009-09-16T06:57:00.002Z

Hi Folks

Another week, another woodworking show! This weekend is the European Woodworking show at Cressing Temple. It looks like its going to be something special, with a huge list of international ehibitors and demonstrators. I'm looking forward to meeting up with Konrad Sauer again to talk plane stuff and also to see his new infill smoother! Also top Axeman Steve Woodley will be there - always a pleasure to watch him at work.

Skew Miter planes have been this weeks main work, as it seems to be a really popular model at the moment. I should have a pair available for sale this weekend - you can try them out at the show. I've also been busy making plane adjusting hammers - both wooden and brass headed.

A customer has commissioned a convex soled Jack plane for making coopered doors - should be an excellent plane to make and looking forward to geting that one underway. There are also panel raisers and Jointers in progress, so a nice mix of planes about to stream out of the workshop in the coming weeks. Watch this spot for pictures!

Lambrettas news! We've got three new gigs booked for the band, and many more in the pipeline. A new website is being built as we speak and a Facebook group has been set up. So the future is looking bright for the Lambo's.

Cheers

Philly

Yandles.....

2009-09-09T15:17:00.002Z

HI Folks

Another crazy week here at Philsville - the Yandles Woodworking show is a couple days away and I've been working like crazy to catch up with orders and make stock to take to the show. The weekend after next is the European Woodworking show at Cressing Temple - a new woodworking show, and one that I think is going to be quite something. So no respite for me this month - at least I get a few months rest from shows after that.

Been making good progress on a Jointer plane this week - it is made from Ovangkol, a favourite timber of mine. Its a very hard timber, and working it is quite difficult as the grain is very interlocked and extremely prone to tear-out. So I've been taking it slow and steady, sharpening the tools at the first signs of trouble. The throat has been chopped out and the bed pared, the tote has been shaped and polished and I started work on the metalwork today - this plane is to have a Norris adjuster and screw cap. More pics as she comes to life......

Remember the Lambrettas gig I played a few weeks ago? I've managed to get my hands on two camcorder recordings made on the night - quite enjoyable to watch it again (as well as squirm at the mistakes!). We have had quite a few enquiries about playing other gigs so hopefully we should have a small tour booked for later this year. I'll keep you up to date on this as the dates are confirmed.

Cheers

Philly

Westonbirt 2009

2009-09-04T12:07:00.002Z

HI Folks

I'm safely back in the workshop following the Westonbirt show. Five days is a long time to be stood in a field.........;)

The show was great fun, and there were huge amounts of people milling about the place. There is so much to see, all tree related, and its such an inspiring place to hold a woodwork event.

It was great to meet so many people who read this blog - thanks for coming up and saying "Hi", it made my day. And I thought only my Mum read this blog........

I came home with two six foot lengths of Boxwood, saved from the firewood pile. I've broken it down into suitably sized billets and it should make some lovely planes in a few years.

There were plenty of woodworking superstars on hand - Rob Cosman, David Charlesworth, David Lloyd and many more. I particularly enjoyed watching carver Pascal (sorry I forget his full name) making piece after piece - he worked fast but made such beautifully detailed pieces. Very inspiring! And it was very interesting to watch Dovetail King Rob Cosman at work - he's changed his dovetail demo so that he cuts the complete joint in five minutes. Impressive to see him working so fast, while still making killer joints!

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this event is that the majority of the exhibitors camp together on-site. The organiser (a big thank you to Mike Hancock of Classic Hand Tools) arranges for a chef to come cater for the crew. Its a wonderful communal experience to eat, work and relax together. Although I would happily do without the rain next time ;)

So, I'm almost recovered fromt he show - it's incredible how drained you find yourself on returning home. I'm back in the workshop working on a jointer with a norris adjuster - pics soon.

Cheers

Philly

Festival Of The Tree

2009-08-26T19:25:00.004Z

Hi Folks

I'm feverishly packing for the this years Westonbirt event, the "Festival of the Tree". It's a great show, made all the more special by its wonderful setting, the Westonbirt Arboretum. This will my third year attending (the second as an exhibitor) and one aspect I really enjoy is the accomodation - a tent! Most of the exhibitors camp on-site, which makes for an enjoyable communal experience.

I've got five Classic Smoothers packed ready to display, and as you can see from the photo's they're a handsome bunch - I'm looking forward to seeing how they're received. There are some details on the website in the meantime - thanks to all who have emailed me.

Until next week......

Philly

The "Classic Smoother"

2009-08-24T20:05:00.005Z

Hi Folks

Have some more info on the new plane for you at last. First up, the irons.......

As I mentioned previously, Karl Holtey is making the irons for these planes himself. He has sent me some information on these, which I shall reproduce below.

"HOLTEY BLADES

The A2 alloy used on all Holtey blades is of the highest specification (A2 does not mean a standard, it is just a designation).

The heat treatment has been designed for me by one of the finest metallurgists; it is very complex including triple tempering followed by a soak for considerable duration in liquid nitrogen. This needs to be carried out by a specialised heat treatment company.

These blades are then precisionally surface ground on all surfaces to the highest tool room standards. These blades will hold the finest edge and have considerable resistance to abrasions. This gives the blade a better performance for considerably longer than carbon steel.

These blades made for Philly Planes have been made exclusive for Phil Edwards and to the same exacting standard as all Holtey blades."

So there you go - the real deal! I've been giving these blades a thorough testing and I'm very impressed with them. Also, Karl surface grinds all the faces and edges - no other blade on the market is finished as well. I'm over the moon to be able to offer these irons in my plane.

I've put some photo's of a finished smoother here for you all to see - it's in Cocobolo, a very handsome timber. Sadly I'm affected quite badly by its dust, so this will probably be the last plane I make in Cocobolo. But I have some other exotic beauties in the pipeline - Partridge wood, Ebony and a timber called Ebano. I've not heard of this one before, but it is seriously dense - easily as heavy as Lignum, but a much lighter brown colour. I'm really looking forward to using it.

Again, if you're interested in more details on the "Classic Smoother" email me at holtey@phillyplanes.co.uk

Bye for now....

Philly

More Plane Teasers...

2009-08-21T16:16:00.003Z

HI Folks

Here's another sneak peak at the new plane (which is going to be called the "Classic Smoother").

I'm making six to bring to the Festival of the Tree next week, from a variety of special timbers - Boxwood, Santos Rosewood, Cocobolo, African Blackwood and a very, very special piece of Rosewood from Karl Holtey's stash. Its a wonderfully figured piece and I can't wait to apply the finish to see its true colours.

More soon.....

Philly

New Plane

2009-08-19T18:49:00.003Z

Hi Folks

I've been hinting about a new plane model for a while now, and think its time to explain.

At the West Dean Hand Tool event a few months ago I had the pleasure of meeting Karl Holtey, probably the worlds #1 plane maker. His work is astonishing, and the chance to chat with him over the weekend on plane related matters was wonderful. At the end of the show he suggested we should work together on my next plane.....

So - after a few months of phone calls, emails, posting of prototypes, etc, we have the final design ready to unveil. It is a smoothing plane, with traditional styling, and is extremely comfortable in the hands as well as on the eye. The big bonus is the Iron - Karl is making the irons for this model, using his own recipe of A2 steel. This will be surface ground on ALL surfaces, and stamped with the "Holtey" name - I have been testing one of these irons out and they are superb, offering extended edge holding ability.

The cool thing is that Karl is making this blade specifically for this model plane - it is not available anywhere else. And with his input into the design we have come up with a very handsome plane - I think you will all be impressed when you see it in the flesh. And speaking of which, I will be debuting this plane at the Westonbirt "Festival of the Tree", from the 28th through to the 31st of August. If you are attending please come by the bench and say "Hello"!

If you are interested in more details on this new plane or pre-ordering, email me at holtey@phillyplanes.co.uk

Cheers

Philly

Lambrettas...

2009-08-17T19:37:00.003Z

Hi Folks

Some of you might know that I play guitar - I'm a bit of a musician and play in a couple of local bands. An oportunity arose recently for me to play with a rather special band - The Lambrettas. They were pretty big in the '80's Mod music scene, and had a few chart hit singles.

A couple of years ago their frontman, Jez Bird, passed away. An invitation to reform for a festival in Brighton meant that the guitarist Doug Sanders had to step up to the vocal mike, leaving the guitar spot empty. Enter Philly stage left ..........

So this weekend, after a few weeks feverish practising, the Lambrettas headlined the Modrophenia '79 festival at the Brighton Concorde center. It was their first gig since 1982 and we enjoyed a very warm reception! There are a few video clips of us on Youtube - search for "lambrettas concorde" and you'll find them. I'm the one on the right of your screens ;)

This week its back to the workshop. And maybe I'll reveal all on my new plane model.

Cheers

Philly

Another Blog To Read...

2009-08-11T08:51:00.002Z

HI Folks

I notice that saw maker extraordinaire Mike Wenzloff has now started blogging. Get over there and take a look....

Sick Monkey Saw Works Blog

And a great name, Mike - you should have gone for that originally ;)

Cheers

Philly

Guitars, Gaps and Jointers.....

2009-07-28T08:14:00.004Z

Hi Folks

Remember the electric guitar project I've been working on? It's just about complete. I've got a couple of small tweaks left to do, but the guitar is playable (and I've been playing it!). I get such a thrill from playing an instrument I bungled together myself - the feeling of shock when I hear it ringing out. And the relief when it is still in one piece five minutes later - when the strings are tuned up to tension I expect the thing to implode any second. I'll post a sound clip soon.

Following the bandsaw blade drama I thought it was time I upgrade another machine that was waiting to "get me". I have a 12 inch disc sander that has become an invaluable tool for me - shaping curves, cleaning up end grain and even shaping metal parts. So I decided to buy a second machine so I could keep one dedicated to metalwork. Sadly the new machine had a large gap (9mm) between the edge of the table and the sanding disc - when working small pieces it is possible (and yes, I've done it) to have the workpiece pulled down through this gap. With the usual underpant threatening consequences.......... ;)

So I fashioned a new table from 3/4 MDF - it only took ten minutes to remove the old one and replace it. And I now have a tiny (read SAFE) gap. I'm so please with this I need to do the other table now (yup, the sander is a double-header).

Plane news.....

It's Jointer season - I'm building a 30 inch beech jointer at the moment (with a similar plane up next). That's a long plane!! More pics as she comes together.

Cheers

Philly

New Balls, Please....

2009-07-22T19:04:00.003Z

Hi Folks

Thought I'd tell you about an "incident" that happened in the workshop today. I was cutting a wedge on the bandsaw in some 15mm thick beech - got halfway through the cut when there was an almighty bang!!

After the initial shock I managed to turn off the power and count my fingers - still all there, I'm pleased to say. And once I'd changed my underpants I was able to investigate further - the blade had snapped.

It's been a while since I've had a blade snap on the bandsaw (three years, in fact) and thinking back I've noticed this blade starting to misbehave. And this was a 25mm wide blade, so a big one - hence the boom when it let go!

But on the up side, it made me realise how safe a machine the bandsaw is. If the blade disintegrated on the table saw it would of been a much nastier outcome, I'm sure.

So with clean underwear fitted I'm ready to venture back into the workshop. I'm working on a new plane at the moment and I'm very, very excited about it. More details in the coming weeks - but its going to be cool!

Cheers

Philly

Favourite Things Part 2

2009-07-11T11:47:00.004Z

Finishing is a tricky subject – it can make or break a project. There are many different finishes, and almost as many different ways to apply them. After using most of the types of finish available I find myself reaching for the Shellac nine times out of ten.

So what is shellac? It is a resin excreted by the Lac bug which feeds on braches of certain trees. The resin is harvested and then purified – the different levels of purification give different shades of shellac, from dark brown through to clear. It is dissolved in alcohol (methylated spirit is fine) and by varying the amount of alcohol to shellac (or the “cut”) you can get different strength solutions (i.e. thicker for bodying up).

Shellac has some excellent traits :

It will bond to pretty much anything
It dries very fast
No strong smell
Easily removed – just wipe off with an alcohol soaked rag.
Each application melts into previous layers, so no problems with “sand through”
Most other finishes will bond to it, so it can be used as a sealer (i.e. between an oil based finish and a water based finish)

For me one of the best things about shellac is its versatility – you can wipe on a single thing coat to seal the timber against fingerprints (think Jim Krenov’s method of finishing) or you can continue to add layers of finish to get the desired sheen or thickness. And the speed with which it dries means you can make some serious progress – no waiting overnight for the finish to cure. Only a couple of minutes are needed for it to be dry.

Ease of application is another plus – I’ve used paper towels, rags, mini-rollers and brushes. You can also spray it, but I’ve never felt the need to.

So what downsides are there to shellac? Well, it is dissolved in alcohol, so shellac probably wouldn’t make the best finish for a bar top – a few splashed drops of whiskey would spell disaster. Its also not water proof, so is only suitable for indoor use. But that’s about it.

Shellac is a wonderful finish for wood – it brings out the beauty of the grain and figure and makes it shine. It is a natural finish that has been used for centuries and just looks “right”. My favourite technique is to apply a coat of oil to the piece, buff it dry and then apply shellac. This gives a deep shine and makes the figuring jump out at you. And its quick and easy to do!

One final comment – there are many different shades of shellac. Experiment with them on different colour timbers – I love garnet on walnut, and lemon adds an interesting “vintage” tint to most timbers.

Favourite Things Part 1

2009-07-08T19:39:00.004Z

Hi Folks

I thought over the next week I would blog about some of my favourite things. But don't worry, its about simple, useful (and cheap!) things around the workshop that I use everyday and wouldn't be without.

So to the first item - Superglue.

I'm sure most of us have used superglue at one time or another (and have a bad memory of sticking your fingers to the item to be repaired!). Its cheap, easily available and dries fast.

I was interested to find it comes in different thicknesses - I'd only used the regular stuff. You can get a thick gel version (which doesn't run - useful on vertical surfaces) and a low viscosity thin version, too. The thin stuff has become a workshop favourite of mine - it has hundreds of uses. The cool thing is this - due to its watery consistency it wicks into cracks and openings. So you can sit two pieces together then wick the glue in afterwards - cool! And it also draws itself into cracks, so the next time you have a piece of timber chip or split just let some glue seep its way in and then hold the chip down for a few seconds until it sets. Perfect repair!

Over in the guitar making world repair guys use superglue for many, many things. And turners also use superglue as a finish! Is there no end of uses for this wonderful stuff?

A perfect companion to superglue is accelerator - just spray one surface with it before putting the two parts together and the glue sets almost instantly. Or you can use a drop of accelerator to set a layer of glue before adding another, allowing you to build up a repair quickly.

So - some of my applications for superglue:

As a filler - just add sawdust.

For gluing metal to wood.

Repairing splits, checks and cracks.

To glue up quick jigs.

To temporarily tack pieces together (pry them apart within 10 minutes though)

To strengthen soft areas of timber.

As a thread lock.

For me the best attribute is speed - apply the glue, hold the pieces together for a few seconds - done! And its a surprisingly strong bond, too, once it cures fully.

Just remember not to glue your fingers together - maybe an emergency tube of superglue dissolver would be a good thing to add to the list.

Cheers

Philly

Binding

2009-06-29T06:53:00.004Z

Hi Folks

Found some spare time on the weekend to do some more work on my guitar project. I've added the binding around the body and given the guitar a good sanding - the top was then stained with a thinned lemon dye. A coat of cellulose sealer keeps the dirt out of the pores.

Next step is to finish inlaying the fingerboard and then I can spray the finish.

This week sees a smoother in Greenheart - a very hard and dense timber. More pics soon!

Cheers

Philly

Coffin Smoother with Norris Adjuster

2009-06-26T17:54:00.002Z

Hi Folks

Had a good day finishing off the brass soled coffin smoother - take as look at the photo's, I think you'll agree it came out quite nicely!

I was very pleased with the adjuster - it works smoothly and accurately. And the plane is a pleasur e to use, the substantial weight means you only have to push the plane forward - it holds itself onto the workpiece!

Cheers

Philly

Black Magic

2009-06-25T18:38:00.003Z

Hi Folks

Just putting the finishing touches on my current plane - its a brass soled coffin smoother in African Blackwood. This one is special as it has a norris-style adjuster, the first on this particualr model.

I've completed all the major components and have only the final shaping and finishing to complete. So tomorrow will see this beauty complete - looking forward to seeing this one polished up!

I was flicking through the current issue of "British Woodworking" magazine and was pleasantly surprised to see me featured in an article on scrapers - I vaguely remember demonstratrating how to sharpen and use them at the recent WL West show. And the article also shows my Toted Smoother in use, too.

Over at Karl Holteys website he has started blogging - very enlightening to see some of his methods being demonstrated. Well worth a read!

Cheers

Philly

News....

2009-06-22T18:33:00.002Z

Hi Folks

Been a lot happening here over the last week or so and its been busy! I only just found time to sneak in my birthday ;)

Completed a trio of planes for an American customer - he wanted some custom touches on two of them. First, a Jack - an offset tote, styled like an 18C plane. And then a smoother, but shaped like the one in Moxon's book. Interesting styling, but surpringly comfortable to use. Once the customer gives me his feedback I'll post some pics.

Current plane in progress is a brass soled coffin smoother in African Blackwood. This one will be the first with a norris style adjuster, though. I think this will turn out to be quite a plane and I can't wait to see it completed.

Other news - Karl Holtey has launched a new website. Take a look here...... He makes the most astonishingly wonderful planes, and to the highest possible standard. I don't think I'm out of line to say his are the finest in the world - his attention to detail is otherworldly!

In the pipeline are some exciting new projects - I'm so excited about them I want to blurt out the details. But you're just going to have to be patient - watch this space :)

Cheers

Philly

West Dean

2009-06-10T18:26:00.004Z

Hi Folks

Just about recovered after the Hand Tool event. It was a fantastic weekend and I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as I did. Highlights for me were having my bench next to planemakers Karl Holtey and Bill Carter - the chance to chat throughout the weekend with them both about plane related things was heaven! It was also interesting to compare their work - Mr Holteys planes are sheer perfection, every detail being spot on. Mr Carters planes on the other hand, while made to the same high standards, are aged to give a "vintage" appearance and could be mistaken for being pristine examples of classic infill planes.

The UK Workshop crew dropped by to say hello and it was good to meet customers who I previously only dealt with via email. David Charlesworth was also at the show, which was a special treat - I haven't seen David for almost a year so it was good to see him out and and about.

Last week I had a few emails from a Gent in Norway asking questions about planes and planemaking. It turned out that he was coming to the UK to attand a violin making course - I told him about the Hand Tool event and he managed to catch an earlier flight so he could attend the show before going off to his course. So say hello to Stig - I have a feeling he'll be turning up at my workshop in the near future ;)

After getting home and unpacking the van I was pretty wiped out on Monday. So I spent some time cleaning the workshop - a perfect way to recharge my batteries! This week I've been making a trio of planes for an American customer from Beech, but with some interesting details - a smoother like the one featured in Moxon and a Jack with an off-set tote. I'll have some photo's for you later in the week .

Be good,

Philly

Three Days To Go....

2009-06-02T06:35:00.005Z

Hi Folks

Been busy on various bits and pieces for the upcoming West Dean event. Completed the Moving Fillister plane, too - some fantastic Beech on this one. The Fillister is a complicated plane to build, not only because of the skewed iron, but because of the depth stop mechanism. But its worth all the hard work to produce such a handsome and practical plane. Chris Schwarz was very pleased with his - read his review here....

Had a phone call from the editor of Furniture and Cabinetmaking magazine yesterday - they want to come down to the workshop for the day and do a feature on me and the planes. Yes, I'm very excited about that! Stay tuned for more details.

My Canadian customer has received his Moulding planes and he seems to be happy with them - see his blog here...

Cheers

Philly

West Dean Hand Tool Event

2009-05-28T19:20:00.003Z

Hi Folks

Only a week or so to go until the West Dean "Hand Tool Event". This will be the second year of this show, and I'm real excited about it. Last years event, being the first one, was very enjoyable (and attracted some stars - Brian Boggs and Garrett Hack!) and was quite a success. It was also unique in that it was only hand tools - no power tools in sight. All the attendees were hand tool nuts, and there was a real buzz in the air.

Word has gotten around about that show and I have no doubt that this years event will be twice as big. I'm feverishly working away to have new items to show off - so do make sure you call by my bench and say "Hi!".

Cheers

Philly

Template Routing

2009-05-22T07:39:00.004Z

HI Folks

Had an excellent week in the workshop and made some good progress. The Hollows and Rounds are about complete, just need to finish testing them out - pictures soon. And I've been busy starting some fillisters and skew miters.

The guitar project.....

All the components have safely arrived and I'm really pleasd with the service I received - I bought everything I needed from Axes R Us, and they were superb -quick delivery and excellent prices. If you need any guitar components they are worth checking out.

So its routing template time......

I made the template for the pickup cavities so, after removing the majority of the waste with a forstner bit in the drill press, I attahched the template with double sided sticky tape (yes, it does work) and cleaned up the recesses with the router. A very neat and professional looking result!

After drilling a hole between the two pickup recesses with an extra long spade bit I turned my attention to the back. The controls recess needed to be made as well as a lip around the recess for a cover to sit on. Another template! This time I made a female for the recess and a male to make a matching cover. With the waste removed with the drill press I routed the lip and then cleaned up the bottom with the router. Job done!

Next task is to decide exactly where the controls will go and drill out for them. Then the fingerboard need completing and we can get sanding - exciting stuff!

Cheers

Philly

On the shelf..........

2009-05-18T18:42:00.003Z

Hi Folks

Had a busy week working on non-plane related things. First up were a set of fitted shelving units for a friend. Made from oak veneered MDF, they came out a treat - now the Wife has designs for something suitable for our lounge.

Then I installed a fitted bedroom suite for a another frie

nd - lots of woodwork fun!

With those tasks out of the way I was happy to get back to the comfort of my workshop. The Hollows and Rounds are coming along nicely and I've been roughing out timber for upcoming plane orders, as well as stock for the upcoming West Dean "Hand Tool Event". I hear that Karl Holtey is attending this, and I'm really looking forward to picking his brains!

The electric guitar project has fallen behind a little, so I knocked up a router template for the pick-up cavities. Hopefully I'll rout those tomorrow and make some more progress - all the components I need are now safely in the workshop.

Cheers

Philly

Good Show!

2009-05-11T18:40:00.004Z

HI Folks

Finally recovered from my infection - took longer than expected, and probably not helped by the sawdusty atmosphere of my workshop. But thanks for all the thoughful emails, much appreciated!

Last weekend was the WL West woodworking show at Petworth, West Sussex. I've been meaning to make a visit there for a while and the opportunity to attend the show and demonstrate my planes was perfect. It is held at their sawmills, a very professional and smart location, which has a hobbiest shop and self-selection timber yard too.

The show was very enjoyable and there was a lot of different woody things to see, from turning demonstrations, carving, musical instrument making and displays from colleges. There was also top axe man Steve Woodley on display, carving a beam from a huge oak log. I know it was huge as I helped him move the thing into position - my back still feels slightly shorter ;)

British Woodworking editor Nick Gibbs was also there spreading word about his magazines (as well as whittling away at branches on his clever shavehorse. And Mike and Alex from Classic Hand Tools were there with their usual range of high quality hand tools to make woodworkers drool.

So I'm back in the workshop and getting stuck into some more planes - this week some more hollows and rounds for a customer in Canada and a moving fillister, shoulder plane and brass soled smoother.

Cheers

Philly

Caution -Man Flu

2009-04-30T18:25:00.002Z

HI Folks

Had a rotten week so far - been struck down with "Man Flu". Spent most of the week in bed and generally accomplished nothing, which has driven me mad. Hopefully I will be back on my feet soon - got a lot happening in the next week :(

Managed to start another project last week, though. I was so pleased with my acoustic guitar I thought an elctric version would go down a treat. So I've put a couple hours into it and its starting to look good already. I'm waiting for some parts to arrive and I'll be able to take it to the next step (assuming I get over this infection).

Back soon,

Philly

More on the Weissy

2009-04-21T06:45:00.003Z

Hi Folks

Well I've had a good few days living with the guitar, and I'm pleased to say it is sounding better and better as the days pass. I'd read that the sound changes as the instrument beds in, but it has been enlightening to experience it firsthand.

I've put the rest of the build photo's on my Philsville site, so you can see how I put it together. The only shots missing are where I applied thje binding to the top edge of the guitar - my recent computer disaster meant those pics are lost :( Anyway, the binding was made from three layers of veneer - walnut, maple, walnut. These were applied with PVA and masking tape to clamp them in place, and it was a messy little job. But worth it :)

I recorded a quick ditty on the guitar so you can hear it in action (although I need to spend some time practising!)

Now its time to get back in the workshop - I have planes to finish.

Cheers

Philly

It Lives!!!!

2009-04-15T19:02:00.003Z

Hi Folks

Hope you all had a good Easter? Spent some time away with my parents and also managed to make some serious progress on an old project - the Acoustic Guitar.

Well, the picture probably gives it away. Yes, she's complete! I put the strings on about an hour ago (and boy, was that nerve-wracking!) and she plays nicely. The sound is a little bass shy compared to my other acoustic but I think it will take a while to bed in before its true character is revealed. All I know is this - if its still in once piece in the morning I'll be a happy bunny :)

I've been taking some pictures throughout the build and will put them up on the Philsville site shortly.

Cheers

Philly

Touching Base

2009-04-09T19:03:00.004Z

Hi Folks

Had a great time at the Yandles Woodworking show - a pleasure to meet so many of you! Show season is officially started and I'm preparing for the next one in a months time.

A few weeks ago I got involved with a project with a friend - it was to build a base for a Yurt, a kind of round tent. I gave a hand to get the footings and main members in and then the easy stuff was finished off by "Workshop Steve" (whose head you've seen in pictures on this Blog). Just joking Steve, you did a marvelous job!

The base was 18 foot in diameter, a good size, and was eight sided. So some serious brainwork was involved witht the geometry - and thank goodness for sliding miter saws! It was also on quite a slope (about two foot over the width) so was quite an exercise. The customer was very pleased, though, and I look forward to seeing the Yurt erected.

I've also managed to grab a few more minutes work on the guitar project. I'm hoping this weekend I can glue the back on, giving me something that looks very much like a guitar. Pics soon!

Cheers

Philly

It's Alive!!

2009-04-02T06:35:00.002Z

Hi Folks

And we're back!

Web site has been uploaded and looks very smart - please take a look and let me know what you think.

www.phillyplanes.co.uk

Thanks again to Elephant Media for their top notch work - I would of pulled all my hair out by now. Cheers

Philly

Don't Worry - I'm Still Here!

2009-04-01T16:30:00.002Z

HI Folks

Just a quick message. If you've visited my website and found it missing its because my new "professional" site is being uploaded and de-bugged. So I should be back up (and super-shiny!) real soon.

Stay tuned.....

Philly

Hollows and Rounds and Show News

2009-03-22T19:52:00.002Z

Hi Folks

Got some pretty photo's of the recent Hollow and Round planes I've been building. I've really enjoyed building them - its a pleasure to work with Beech again.

I will be introducing two sizes of H+R's as a standard stock item soon - stay tuned for more details!

Other news - Show season is almost upon us. I will be at Yandles Woodworking show in Somerset on the third and fouth of April so do come by and say "Hello" if you are attending. I'll also be at the WL West show on eighth and ninth of May. After that we get to the larger events - more details on y website.

Cheers

Philly

Guitar Update

2009-03-17T18:30:00.003Z

Hi Folks

Now some of you may remember that I used to do some woodworking back before I got caught up in making planes. And that I started an acoustic guitar project about a year ago? Well I came over a bit strange on the weekend and actually made a little progress....

The guitar is based on a Weissenborn slide guitar and has a hollow neck - the body goes all the way to the headstock. I had made the front, back, sides and fingerboard and was approaching the point where I glued it all together. So this weekend I made a start. Both side pieces are now glued in place and it looks like a guitar now, instead of a guitar kit ;)

Can't promise when I 'll have another update, but it is very satisfying to see the guitar take on a 3D shape :)

Cheers

Philly

P.S. I'm still trying to contact Folks who have ordered planes in the month of February - please get in touch if you have!

Computer Woes.........

2009-03-16T08:31:00.000Z

Hi Folks
Been having problems in the computer department (cue pulling of hair, gnashing of teeth, etc...). My main hard drive has stopped responding (and yes, its only about three months old) so I cannot access certain emails, etc.
If you have placed an order for a plane by email in the last month please send me a reminder email so I have your address.
Cheers
Philly

Krenov Plane

2009-03-14T19:23:00.002Z

Hi Folks
I've been collaborating with British Woodworking magazine on a project (yes, involving planes!). Here's a little pic - a somewhat familiar looking plane.
This one is made from a piece of Apple I've been hoarding for a few years. Sadly, upon breaking the plank down into smaller pieces I discovered it was full of worm :( Still, had enough for one plane. As you can see from the pic it has wonderful depth to it and lots of fine figuring.
I can totally understand why Krenov talks about fruitwoods so much in his books. I want more!!!
Cheers
Philly

Dunked!

2009-03-11T19:27:00.004Z

Hi Folks
Took some more pics of the smoothing plane today - what do you think of the sapwood? Thumbs up or down?? I kinda like the way it echoes the colour of the brass. Bulb blew on my "studio light" so I'll take some better ones once I get a replacement.

Next, as promised, visual evidence on my haircut. No, there's none hiding on the back out of sight - I really do have a "sensible" haircut. What is the world coming to.............. ;)

And finally, todays big excitement. We have a large fishpond in the back garden with 18 Koi carp. Shopcat is very interested in said fish, especially around feeding time. I glanced out the workshop window and saw the cat excitedly trying hook some lunch. I ran outside to shoo her away and she had disappeared. Luckily I checked in the pond - one wet and scared little cat clinging to the underside of the bird nets! I hauled her out and dried her off, but she stank! So off for a cat bath........my forearms are scratched to hell!! She's spent some time drying off and sleeping under the radiator and is a little happier now. Hopefully she's learned her lesson - dont mess with the Koi!

Cheers

Philly

Smooth As A........

2009-03-09T20:51:00.003Z

Hi Folks
Been busy in the workshop again - the hollows and rounds I'm making are coming along nicely (I'm at the boring "metalwork" part at the moment) and I've also made another brass soled smoother. I love how the extra weight of the brass makes this plane a dream to use - you just push the thing forward and let its own weight hold it on the work. And it took wonderful fine shavings first time I tested it - a good sign :)
I used Pau Rosa for the timber - its a very hard, tight grained timber (and called "Pau Rosa" by the Portuguese - literally "rose wood") and I left a little of the sapwood on the upper rear surface. I'll put some better pictures up tomorrow for you to see - I'd be interested in your opinions on the use of sapwood.

Other news - the Philly hair has officially been cut, big time. I'm still a little in shock, so you'll have to wait 'til tomorrow for a picture, but I now look vaguely normal. You've been warned......... ;)
Cheers
Philly

Aurious Rasps

2009-03-05T09:20:00.005Z

Hi Folks
When woodworkers talk rasps one name goes straight to the top of the pile - Auriou. These tools are hand made, literally one tooth at a time, in France. Michel Auriou (whose family has made rasps for three generations) and his small team of craftsmen, make these wonderful tools using unique methods refined over 150 years of toolmaking.
There are a few different brands of rasps on the market, some "hand made", but it only takes a few strokes with an Auriou rasp to immediately see (and feel) the difference. They cut fast with good feedback, but leave a smooth surface which is easily refined. I have used them for years in my workshop and would not be without them. They may be a bit pricey, but the short discomfort when purchasing is soon forgotten with the years of pleasure they will give.
I have met Michel quite a few times over the last year (and we travelled together to the Woodworking In America conference last Novemeber) and have great respect for his skills. I was therefore very pleased to be asked if I would offer some of his rasps for sale on my website. So please take a moment to browse my new "Auriou Page" on the Philly Planes website.
Go on - you know you're worth it ;)
Cheers
Philly

New Floor

2009-03-02T21:29:00.004Z

Hi Folks
Had a busy weekend fitting the new oak floor in out kitchen. I used a new method to lay it using a material called "Elastilon". It is basically a foam underlay but with an adhesive on one side. As you lay the planks you pull the backer sheet off the adhesive and it sticks to the planks. This keeps the planks tight together but allows for expansion and contraction due to the flexible nature of the foam. Hopefully it will be a good long-term solution.
The oak looks fantastic (apologies for the washed out flash photography!) and has completely transformed the room. Just need to finish the tiling and a little paintwork and the Wife can moan at me about the next item on my list....... ;)

The Hollows and Rounds I'm working on are coming along quite nicely. I have two pairs almost ready for their irons and look forward to another day working with a blond timber - so nice not to have "black hands" at the end of the day :)

Cheers

Philly

Retirement

2009-02-27T17:00:00.003Z

HI Folks
Sadly, I think it is time for a close companion of mine to stand down. We spend a lot of time each day sharing the workload, and also glue, blood, oil and anything else thats gets on me. Yes, you've guessed it - its time for a new shop apron.........

This one has served me well for a couple of years but is embarressingly black and worn - every time I walk past the face vice of my bench it catches on a hole in the lower left side of the apron. Duct tape repairs gave it a few more months life but it really has to go now the front pocket has split. I spend as much time picking pencils up off the floor as I do putting them back in the pocket.

On the bench the beech moulding planes are coming along. I've cut the mortise and bed for all of these first five pairs (the customer has ordered a half set - nine pairs) so I'm making good progress.

This weekend I get to lay some solid oak flooring in our kitchen. I've been slowly renovating the kitchen - it was a genuine 1970's kitchen when we moved it and boy, did it suck. But its coming along nicely - pics soon!

Have a great weekend,

Philly

Blackwood Plough Plane

2009-02-26T07:51:00.004Z

HI Folks
Finished another Blackwood plane yesterday - this one a plough. Can't beat that combination of brass, steel and blackwood!
This ones off to an American planemaker, which reminds me. Does that make this a "Plow Plane"? ;)

Cheers

Philly

Trip

2009-02-23T19:24:00.003Z

HI Folks

Spent a couple days in Suffolk visiting the new Classic Hand Tools shop (and having a nose round the local area). Was impressed with CHT's new premises - it's out of town a few miles but lots of parking and easy to find. And they've got a LOT of lovely tools to see!

I was also lucky enough to meet Roy Arnold, publisher of many classic hand tool books. He has his office in Needham Market not too far away, and I was fortunate enough to spend some time going through his personal library. He has a huge amount of woodworking books and catalogues, many out of print, and I was able to find some very useful information I have been trying to uncover on certain planes. Roy also makes a good cup of coffee!
While browsing through his library we came across some sheets I immediately recognised - the inner dust cover from "British Planemakers" second edition. This shows a wide selection of moulding planes, and we hope to offer these rare pieces for sale in the near future. Stay tuned!

Cheers

Philly

The Philly Toted Smoother

2009-02-18T20:04:00.007Z

HI Folks
After a few weeks work I'm pleased to unveil the completed plane. It was a lot of work but worth every minute - a sweet looking plane that works as good as it looks!
If anyone is interested in getting their hands on one drop me an email at phil@phillyplanes.co.uk

Cheers

Philly

Toted Smoother Update

2009-02-15T19:28:00.002Z

HI Folks
Been busy working on the toted smoother. Bit of a special one, this. African Blackwood, Philly dovetailed brass sole, 6mm thick iron and a norris adjuster. Kind of a Philly A5.
The sole and stock were dovetailed and glued together and the throat chopped. The mouth was cut through and lots of truing up followed. Then it was tote time.
I love making totes - to see a handle appear from a plank of wood is an exciting thing. After mucho sanding and smoothing I routed out the recess for the adjuster mechanism. Then I mortised the stock to take the handle - a precision job.
With the handle fitted snuggly I could concentrate on shaping the body. With the outline marked in white pencil I carefully removed the majority of the waste before using a disc sander to take it to final size. Then plenty of scraping and sanding (by the way, brass scrapes quite well!). Chamfers were applied with files and scraper and a couple coats of shellac were applied to start off the finish.
I opened the mouth so the plane would cut (I always make the mouth too small for the blade to project, then open them to suit the planes purpose) and then turned my attention to the screw cap. The rough shape was arrived at on the mill then I spent some time refining that with files. After drilling and tapping I was ready to take some shavings - an exciting step!
I'm real pleased with the planes progress and the next step is the fitting of the norris adjuster, my first. I'll be back with some more pics soon.
Cheers
Philly

New Record Planes Resource

2009-02-11T07:41:00.002Z

HI Folks
Most Woodworkers are aware of the Stanley planes resource Blood and Gore, but there has been nothing of similar note on Record planes. I was pleased to come across a link to this site, which looks very useful. Hope it is of use,
Cheers
Philly

Snow and Catgut

2009-02-09T19:52:00.005Z

Hi Folks
As you might of heard, we actually had some snow here in the UK. Needless to say, the country came to a standstill at the alien sight of few inches of white stuff. Here's a shot from the workshop - would of been more welcome at the end of December ;) You will be pleased to hear that the torrential rain has now washed away the snow and returned us to the traditional British Winter/Summer - delete as applicable :)

Shop Cat news!!!! Cupcake made a visit to the vet a couple weeks ago to ensure we don't get a house full of "Shop Kittens". She was recovering quite nicely until she decided to pull out her stitches - once we had recovered from the sight of a kitten with her insides dribbling out of her side (nice!!) we whisked her back to the vet for an emergency stitch-up. Her punishment was to wear a collar for 10 ten days - and she didn't like that one bit. But thankfully she has healed up nicely and was allowed to wander around "hat-less" today. One very happy puss!

I'm making the tote for a rather special smoother at the moment. Dovetailed brass sole, Blackwood, tote and Norris adjuster - should be pretty special. More pics soon....

Cheers

Philly

More Blackwood????

2009-02-06T20:09:00.005Z

Hi Folks
As you probably know, I've been using a lot of Blackwood recently. Its an amazing timber - very dense, incredibly tough and, most of all, black! Here's some pics of a piece that I broke down into smaller slices today.
It came from a plank of African Blackwood that had been cut through the centre of the tree, giving me a decent 3 inch thick plank of quartersawn material. But this plank had a hollow running up through the pith - and it was filled with a termites nest! The plank was filled with deep red soil, complete with tunnels. Nice....... :) I cut the plank into pieces to get the majority of the dirt out, but as you can see from the pics, not all of it.
I'm using a special bandsaw blade called a M42. It has two sizes of teeth - a section of coarse teeth followed by a section of fine teeth. It cuts impressively well, leaving a very fine surface. The blade was originally designed for cutting metal so its no surprise it works so well on tough hardwoods! Its available from DragonSaws in South Wales.

To finish, I've just completed another Skew Miter. This one (yes, you guessed!) is on Blackwood. The customer is another victim of my trip to the USA last year :)

Have a great weekend,

Philly

Dark Bench...

2009-02-05T07:45:00.002Z

Hi Folks
This week sees lots more black shavings and dust covering the workshop. Yes, more Blackwood planes...... :)

First up is a Skew Miter. I made one of these in Blackwood to take to the WIA show last November. It made quite an impression and I've had quite a few orders since. You really have to feel the weight of this beast to believe it!

Next is a toted smoother. I'm just waiting for the brass to be delivered for the sole and I can move on to the stage, but the stock has had the mouth cut and throat excavated, so the hard part is done. This plane will be featuring my take on the Norris adjuster, too, so I'm pretty excited about this one. More pics soon.....

The snow here in England has been a pleasant surprise. We've only had a few inches but that has caused the Country to fall into complete chaos - hilarious! And last night we had two power cuts - don't you love replying to emails and finding yourself sat in the dark all the sudden? Its that moment that you wish you had put the torch in a more accessable place...... ;)

Better get back in that workshop while the sun shines.......

Philly

Blackwood Fillister - Complete

2009-02-02T18:43:00.002Z

Hi Folks
Last week was a busy week - finished the Blackwood Fillister, amongst others.
It was a lot of work, and chopping a 1/8th thick mortise by hand for the nicker iron was rather "exciting" in this hard timber, but it looks pretty awesome! I do hope the new owner is pleased with it.

Also visited a Friend who is a website building guru - a new "Philly Planes" website is under construction and will be unveiled soon!

Cheers

Philly

Blackwood Fillister

2009-01-28T21:08:00.003Z

Hi Folks

Working on a Moving Fillister for a customer at the moment. African Blackwood was the timber choice (after seeing my Blackwood Skew Miter at WIA). I love the look of Blackwood - stunning figure and that "almost Ebony" colour. But it is seriously tough to work with. I reminds me more of stone than wood, chipping away bit by bit. And the weight - well, it's almost as dense as stone. Quite a shock the first time you pick a piece up ;)

But the plane is progressing well - spent yesterday making the metalwork. There's a fair bit involved, too - two blades, brass depth stop, depth stop cover and knurled brass knob. And the fence bolts and washers. Just got some wedge fitting left to do and then I can start polishing the beasty up - I think its going to be something special :)
Cheers

Philly

Scraping

2009-01-27T07:53:00.002Z

HI Folks
Been working with African Blackwood again this week. It is an amazingly dense timber (and I'm sure it smells like liquorice - but that might be an illusion) and has amazing grain. And its black!
The downside is that it is a difficult timber to work. Very!
To plane this without tear-out can be very taxing. I use a plane with a 60 degree pitch and sharpen the blade often to ensure the best possible cut. But even then, some areas just don't want to play. So out comes the scraper.
I have a humble #80 (tuned up with a Hock blade) and it doesn't see a lot of use. But when you are backed into a corner it usually saves the day. It tamed this piece of Blackwood without raising a sweat.
Only downside with the #80 is its short (read tiny!) sole. Guess I should add a scraper plane to my list of "Must Build" plane projects.
Cheers

Philly

One More?

2009-01-22T07:46:00.003Z

Yet another Shoulder plane leaves the 'Shop today. This one, destined for the Netherlands, is made from London Plane. I managed to get a group shot before it left - nice, huh?
I do enjoy working with brass - it's soft enough not to cause too much sweat on the brow and polishes up a dream.

The next few planes on the bench are to be made from African Blackwood, an amazing timber. Better get that plane iron sharpened before I get stuck into stock preparation ;)

Cheers
Philly