Are there any alternatives to cabinet scrapers?
Are there any alternatives to cabinet scrapers? |
||||
 |
There are two main alternatives to cabinet scrapers: sandpaper and planes. However, although they remove material from a surface, there are differences when it comes to producing smooth and even finishes. | |||
Sandpaper |
||||
 |
Sandpaper is an abrasive material attached to the surface of a backing (a layer of material underneath).
Sandpaper removes small amounts of material to make surfaces smooth or to remove a layer of material (paint), and it can even be used to make surfaces rougher. |
|||
 |
An abrasive material is a naturally occurring substance (mineral) that is used to remove material from a workpiece when it is rubbed. | |||
 |
Sandpaper wears down very quickly and requires a lot of the user’s energy when sanding large surfaces.
Cabinet scrapers stay sharp longer and can also be resharpened. |
|||
 |
Sandpaper removes only small amounts of material at a time from the area you rub, so it is much slower to use than a cabinet scraper. | |||
Planes |
||||
 |
Planes are woodworking tools that remove material from the surface of the wood. They are used to smooth, flatten, shape or reduce thickness. | |||
 |
A plane is usually more time-efficient on a large surface compared to a cabinet scraper.
However, for small, hard to reach surfaces, the cabinet scraper would be more effective as it can be scraped in different directions and held at a variety of angles. |
|||
 |
Overall, sandpaper and planes are both useful alternatives to cabinet scrapers. The type of work you do will help you decide which is the best tool for you.
But if you want that silky-smooth finish rather than the duller effect left by sandpaper, the best bets are planes and cabinet scrapers, while scrapers are usually better on “difficult” or complex grain structures. |
|||
