Spokeshave success

Some time ago I was working on a curved board that needed a bullnose profile. It was my excuse to purchase a spokeshave. I sharpened it as best I could freehand (as you know it's too short to fit into a honing guide), and thought I'd have a go at it. The project board was sapele. After about 20 minutes of fiddling, I ended that exercise in frustration.

The spokeshave went in a drawer.

Recently, I was going through Paul Sellers' new book and saw the spokeshave sharpening jig and decided to give it a try (come to find out he also has a YouTube video on making one).

I must say, it works well, and made a world of difference in performance. What a breakthrough huh?...when it's sharp it works :rolleyes:

Here's the jig...I tapered the sides as Paul suggests to fit snug with the honing guide.
Attachment 337457 Attachment 337458

And here's the result...first walnut, then sapele
Attachment 337459 Attachment 337460

Great pictures; I finally understand how spokeshaves work. And congrats on figuring it out on your own!

Good job Phil! Thank you for showing this. Now I might be able to get an edge on the ole Record.

I have a similar guide with only a screw, nut and washer to hold those short blades for free handing.

I think David Weaver posted something about blade holders for freehand sharpening a few years ago, dang I miss him.

jtk

I made the Paul Sellers spokeshave sharpening jig and had good success with sharpening my blade on my Worksharp.

Good job and results Phil....looks good!