Using and maintaining Hand Tools

Hand tools are the foundation of fine woodworking!!

Note: This class can be run at other times than listed. Call the Concord Rockler store and ask for the Manager, since he's the instructor ;-)

Hand tools are the foundation of fine woodworking. In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to properly use, tune, and maintain essential woodworking hand tools so they work with you—not against you. Whether you’re new to hand tools or looking to improve accuracy and surface quality in your projects, this class will help you work more efficiently, safely, and confidently.

We’ll focus on practical skills you can immediately apply in the shop, with plenty of demonstrations and guided practice.

What You’ll Learn

Understanding Core Hand Tools

Learn the purpose, strengths, and best-use scenarios for common hand tools, including:

• Bench chisels: sizes, bevel angles, and use cases
• Hand planes: block planes vs bench planes and when to use each
• Handsaws: rip vs crosscut saws and proper technique
• Marking and layout tools: marking gauges, squares, knives, and why precision starts here

Sharpening & Tuning

A sharp tool is safer, cleaner, and far more enjoyable to use. You’ll learn:

• How to sharpen chisels and plane irons step by step
• Understanding bevels, micro-bevels, and edge geometry
• Setting up honing guides vs freehand sharpening
• When a tool is actually sharp—and how to keep it that way

Tool Setup & Adjustment

Many hand tools perform poorly simply because they’re out of tune. You’ll learn:

• Setting up a hand plane for smooth, controlled cuts
• Adjusting blade depth, lateral alignment, and chip breakers
• Flattening plane soles and preparing backs of blades
• Diagnosing chatter, tear-out, and poor surface quality

Using Hand Tools Effectively

Put it all together with hands-on practice:

• Paring and chopping with chisels safely and accurately
• Creating clean edges, chamfers, and fitting joints
• Planing techniques for flattening, smoothing, and trimming
• When and why hand tools outperform power tools

Care, Storage & Long-Term Maintenance

Protect your investment and keep tools ready to use:

• Rust prevention and cleaning techniques
• Proper storage for chisels, planes, and saws
• Basic rehab tips for older or inherited tools
• Maintenance routines that save time and frustration

Why Take This Class?

• Improve accuracy and surface quality in all your projects
• Reduce reliance on sanding and corrective fixes
• Gain confidence using traditional tools alongside power tools
• Learn skills that apply to furniture, cabinets, and fine joinery