Monday, December 1, 2014

Square Ovolo - Essentials of a Cabinetmakers Tool Kit

When it comes to choosing the right moulding plane profiles for a basic tool kit it can seem confusing, especially for someone new to using them. There are the traditional hollows and rounds that everyone seems to talk about. However, where to start with those can be even more overwhelming for the novice. I don't blame anyone for thinking that maybe they shouldn't even start down this path at all.

However, the good news is that, with a few dedicated profile moulding planes, you can cut most all of the mouldings that are used day in and day out in the shop. These planes are also nice, in that they have an integral fence and depth stop, unlike hollows and rounds, so their use is very straight forward. 

Beading planes are the first place to start. They were, no question, the most commonly made dedicated profile plane. Once your tool chest had a few of those in it, the next would likely be an ovolo, closely followed by an ogee. The shape of the profile might vary somewhat, depending on the time period of the tool, but you could never go wrong with a square ovolo.

With that in mind, I will be offering square ovolos in both the 1/4" and 3/8" sizes soon. If I had to choose only one it would probably be the 1/4" since it is surprising where you will find a use for it.


So where would you likely use an ovolo? One of the most common uses for any ovolo would be on the plinth or base of a piece of case work. The photo below is an example of an ovolo profile on a six board chest. It is approximately 1/4" in size. How do I know? Well, I actually had the chance to study the very Mathieson plane that made this profile. Chris Schwarz offered to lend it to me for part of my research in making planes appropriate to cabinetmaking. Interestingly the plane was stamped 3/8" on the heel but it was so worn down from years of use that it measured about 1/4" square.

Six board chest

Close up of C. Schwarz ovolo plane profile from six board chest

I look forward to offering these planes very soon. I will provide details regarding pre-orders on these planes in a forthcoming post. Thanks for your patience!

P.S. For you planemakers out there, I do plan to share the details of Chris's Mathieson plane so, if you'd like, you can make one for yourself. It might take me a while to get the information compiled in a blog post, so please be patient with me. 


14 comments:

  1. thanks for your infor on this subject. you are a source that i enjoy reading and studying on hand planes and chair making..

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    1. Glad you like it. If I wasn't so busy I would try and post more.

      Thanks!

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  2. As a hobbyist woodworker, I would definitely be interested in an ovolo, or beading plane.

    As hobbyist planemaker I most would definitely be interested in plans for all of the above. I made a rabbet plane from your plan and it's a joy to use!

    Post more, I really value what you have to say about our craft.

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    1. Good to know, thanks! Also, glad the rabbet plane came out well. :)

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  3. Interesting blog. This is one of my favorite blog also I want you to update more post like this. Thanks for sharing this article.
    Furniture repair and services in Chennai

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    1. Your welcome Jon! I will try and post as often as I can.

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  4. Outstanding as always Caleb! The planes look great and I too, look forward to your future post on how to make the square ovolo plane. Do you intend to provide info and drawings on the beading planes as well?

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    1. Doug,

      Due to my time as of late being somewhat limited my plans for the ovolo will be a sketch that will need some deciphering but it is what I have. The beading planes plans will have to wait for a later time but I will be shedding some light on how to install boxing that should be of help.

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  5. Fantastic work! Will there be another chance to order beading or rebate planes as well? I missed the boat on those..

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    1. I hope to open orders again in the next 3-5 months. Depends on how some of my prototype planes come along. It also depends alot on my beech plane stock inventory.

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  6. Hello Caleb, I am looking for your shop instead I'm getting 404 errors. Can you help me out.

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    1. Sorry I have a temporary site up because mine crashed. Try calebjamesmaker.com. That should take you to my temporary shop. Thanks!

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  7. I'm not sure if this is working anymore but I'll post this question again. Have you received my email?

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  8. Thanks Caleb I had no idea they cost so much I regret not getting them years ago

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