How to use a surform plane?

4th March 2020

How to use a surform plane


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		Shaping a workpiece should be easy with a surform plane. The following steps explain the best way to use your tool.

		Step 1 – Check blade Ideally, a surform blade should only be used in one direction to prevent damaging the blade. Before you begin, check whether your blade is set to be used on the push or the pull stroke.


		Step 2 – Grip handle Grip the handle of the surform plane, holding it in the most comfortable position. Remember to use the thumb grip for extra support if needed.

		Step 3 – Start shaping Place the blade of the surform plane onto the workpiece and, using short strokes, push the tool in a forward motion along the area to be shaped. The tool will shave thin pieces of material from the workpiece, and the wastage will come through the holes of the blade.

		Repeat this step until the surface of your workpiece has been formed into the desired shape.

		A surform plane can also be moved in sideways strokes, rather than just in a forwards motion.

		Step 4 – Clean blade As the surform is being repeatedly used to grate pieces of material away, debris may build up on the blade, causing the perforated holes to clog. To avoid this, clean the blade with a fine wire brush every now and then to keep the holes clear and the blade cutting efficiently.