Fairing the curve
I frequent flea markets and antique shops searching for vintage tools to add to my collection. One such find is the Stanley #113 compass plane. Manufactured from 1877-1946, the #113 smooths curved surfaces such as the stool seat shown here. The long adjustable sole makes it simpler than using spokeshaves to achieve a fair curve, especially across broad surfaces. After decades of using a spokeshave for such operations, I was delighted to discover a compass plane in good working order. If you don’t enjoy the local hunt, try eBay, where they often pop up for $100-$150. Or try a vintage tool dealer like antique-used-tools.com.
—Ken Burton
Tough as leather
When I pulled the “Walnut Bison” leather apron from its packaging two years ago, it was as stiff and straight as the board I was about to cut. I felt like a was walking around my shop with a sandwich board swinging from my shoulders. But after a few weeks of heavy use, the apron began to settle and fit me better. And this thing takes a beating. It’s covered in glue, finish, and snacking debris, but why wouldn’t it be, right? It’s a shop apron. Woodcraft sells the Tobacco model for $180 but check CalaveraToolWorks.com for a variety of styles and colors. The chest pocket is the perfect size, as I don’t carry much around with me in the shop. Just the essentials. n
—Chad McClung
Prices subject to change without notice.
