Well after a stint at the Melbourne Working with Wood show this past weekend, I have come back with a couple of new goodies...
I spent some time chatting with colleagues and friends Terry, Trent and Colin at the Australian Tool Maker stand. Terry has just made and released this new spokeshave - I couldn't say no.
Designed with a nod to luthiers but also to furniture makers or anyone requiring a tool for working tight radiuses. A beautifully made body of dovetailed solid brass in about a 3/8" diameter radius, 'handled' in a variety of timbers - as with his other offerings.
I had a play with the mini spokeshave he had on display and though it will take a little getting used to controlling, I was still able to peel fine shavings from a "neck heel" type curve with ease. Looks to be a superb answer to these tricky areas to carve. I got mine with a HSS blade as it was available, but Tool Steel Blades are the norm. This particular one also happens to be in a flash bit of Brazilian, but only because he happened to have it there...
I will report back when I have had the opportunity to put it to further use, but at this early stage, I recommend it - such a stunning, functional item. The limitation I foresee will be 'in situ' carving may be limited to some extent due to the long handles. Of course, carving prior to attachment would solve any potential issue there.
Anyway, here it is and I seriously look forward to mastering this new beauty.
Nothing like good tools...Jeremy.
