Comments

1. 
   mnwoodworker | Jan 25, 2014 02:38pm | #1

   Beside being able to get everything matching (which is very important for an OCD person like me) this is great for the comfort level of your tools. I made all my chisel handles as well as new knobs and tots for my planes. Dont be afraid to alter sizes and not just duplicate, I made mine out of scraps I had laying around to experiment, after a little time using the tool you will quickly see if and changes need to be made, once you get them how you like its time to break out the nice wood. I use BLO as a finish for mine as it is easy to rejuvenate when needed, what did John use?

2. 
   blackhorse | Jan 25, 2014 02:44pm | #2

   Good, brief video. I wish fitting the taper to the socket had been covered. To me, it's the most challenging part.

3. 
   jtetreault | Jan 25, 2014 03:14pm | #3

   Mnwoodworker,
   I agree, custom handles can be much more comfortable. I just wiped on a few coats of poly and a final coat of beeswax for the finish.
   John

4. 
   jtetreault | Jan 25, 2014 03:20pm | #4

   Blackhorse,
   Getting the socket just right is the most challenging part. A good trick I came up with is to press a piece of clay or plumbers putty into the socket. Slightly twist it as it's removed. Then you have an exact model to take measurements from with your calipers.

   I'll take a few photos and post a separate blog on Monday. Hope that helps.
   John

5. 
   scx297 | Jan 26, 2014 02:20pm | #5

   I successfully made a couple of these. I was also worried about the tenon fitting properly into the socket. I was wondering how I would make them so the handle would not slip off. I asked a seasoned woodworking teacher and he told me that I had to heat the tenon before the assembly. Once the wood cools down, it expands and stays stuck forever. I use a propane torch to heat the tenon but I suppose a could have use a heat gun or a hair dryer.