Jack plane facts for kids
A jack plane is a common tool used by woodworkers. It helps to quickly remove wood and make surfaces smoother. Think of it as a special kind of hand tool that shaves off thin layers of wood. Jack planes are usually about 30 to 40 centimeters (12 to 16 inches) long.
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What is a Jack Plane Used For?
The main job of a jack plane is to prepare wood for other steps. It's often the first plane used on rough pieces of wood. Its blade is slightly curved. This curve helps it remove wood faster, especially when the wood is very uneven.
Preparing Rough Wood
When wood comes from a sawmill, it can be quite rough and uneven. A jack plane is perfect for this "rough work." It quickly takes off the high spots and makes the surface flatter. This prepares the wood for finer planes, which are used to make the surface perfectly smooth.
Oblique Planning
Sometimes, woodworkers use a jack plane for something called "oblique planning." This means pushing the plane at an angle across the wood grain. This technique can help to prevent the wood from tearing, especially with tricky wood types. It also helps to remove wood quickly and efficiently.
How Does a Jack Plane Work?
A jack plane has a sharp blade, also called an iron, that sticks out slightly from the bottom. When you push the plane across a piece of wood, the blade shaves off a thin curl of wood. The depth of the cut can be adjusted. This lets the woodworker control how much wood is removed with each pass.
Parts of a Jack Plane
- Body: The main part of the plane, usually made of metal or wood.
- Blade (Iron): The sharp part that cuts the wood. It's held in place by a clamp.
- Handle and Knob: These parts help you hold and push the plane comfortably.
- Adjustments: Screws and levers allow you to change how deep the blade cuts and how straight it is.
Why is it Called a "Jack" Plane?
The name "jack plane" comes from its role as a general-purpose tool. In the past, "jack" was a common term for a worker who did many different jobs. Similarly, the jack plane is versatile and can handle a variety of tasks, making it a go-to tool for many wood projects.
Images for kids
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Wooden jack plane from c.1860
