Replies

1. 
   Metod | Dec 20, 2011 09:30am | #1

   Even Out

   Mark,

   If the cutting boards are fairly uneven, use a router combines with a suitable sled first. After that even a 45* smoother will finish the surface. The critical detail is in a sharp iron and thin shavings. Keep the sole waxed (even if you use a woodie). Experiment with moisting the grain (water or mineral spirits (ventilate)).  Do not hesitate to stop and hone/strop as soon as you detect increased resistance. 

   I do not have a low angle smoother (and do not plan on one) but have (two of each, Stanley and LN) low angle and regular angle block planes. When the irons are sharp, they cut pretty much the same way on the endgrain. 

   Experiment some - then decide for yourself.  

   Best wishes,

   Metod

2. 
   RalphBarker | Dec 20, 2011 12:07pm | #2

   uneven ends

   My end was a little uneven when I was young, but it's pretty much flattened now, after years of sitting in a chair.  ;-)

   As Metod suggested, a router sled may be a good choice. You can find plans online for building one yourself, or there's a commercial version made by Woodhaven that looks pretty good (I haven't bought one yet.

   http://www.amazon.com/Woodhaven-3000-27-Planing-Sled/dp/B002UZGUSY

   You'll also see mention of router "skis" mentioned on various router forums. These are essentially a couple of rails with steel rods in between to support the router. The issue is the potential for vertical flex with this arrangement, depending on the materials used.

   A belt sander is another option, but they require some skill development to achieve satisfactory results. And, there is the danger of leaving behind abrasive bits that will cause problems with your planes.

1. 
   roc | Dec 20, 2011 06:37pm | #5

   Ralph,

   I haven't thought to check my end for uneven.  I sit quite a lot so maybe it is OK.  Although the couch is exceptionally soft . . .

   Maybe it mutated into a hideously disturbing deformity . . .

   I could ask Queenmasteroftheuniverseandbabybunnytrainer . . .

   though I DO NOT wish to draw her attention to even more of my flaws . . .

   I don't think I want to know.

   Is it important to the success of my woodworking ?

1. 
   RalphBarker | Dec 26, 2011 11:15am | #8

   Woodworking success

   For success in woodworking, it is probably more important for the other end (the head) to be "even".  ;-)

3. 
   Ed_Pirnik | Dec 20, 2011 04:13pm | #3

   End Grain Help

   Mark,

   I'd say your original hunch was correct - a low angle bevel up smoother. Keep in mind however, that to obtain a glass-smooth finish on that end grain, you'll still need to go back and sand with some fine paper after the planing has been done. Planing the end grain will level things out, but it won't leave things glass smooth - just the nature of the cut when dealing with end grain.

   Best,

   -Ed

1. 
   roc | Dec 20, 2011 06:09pm | #4

   Oh . . . nowwww . . .

    >you'll still need to go back and sand with some fine paper after the planing has been done. Planing the end grain will level things out, but it won't leave things glass smooth - just the nature of the cut when dealing with end grain.<

   Lets not underestimate the hand plane.

   I agree with the router thing if Mark has to do many cutting boards.  Take a while to level out the top if all end grain and uneven not to mention the danger of knocking chunks off the edges if his technique isn't impeccable with a scrub plane.  Meaning plane toward the center and pick up before going off  the edge each time ( or build a sacrificial boarder around the perimeter).

   If Mark were to plane all the way across the top and off the edge it will bust a a sliver or two off the side most every time.

   See first photo.  No sand paper here. Good technique, great hand plane (Veritas low angle smoother ) and a bit of water to wet.  Alcohol or paint thinner is even better ( easier on the plane as far as rust problems ) but requires shop ventilation.

   Sand paper ?  Humpf

   :   )

   
4. 
   vinworx | Dec 20, 2011 09:16pm | #6

   Thanks
   I guess I should have told you they are flat. I run then through the wide belt sander w 80 grit I just need to take the belt marks off and make it.smooth.

1. 
   RalphBarker | Dec 26, 2011 11:12am | #7

   smoooooooth

   120, 220, 400, 600, 1200, pumice, Rottenstone.  ;-)