Brian Boggs

A Spokeshave Odyssey

My work depended on spokeshaves from the beginning. But I had to design and make my own to get the performance I needed. That started a fun tool design odyssey that continues to this day.

Little room to keep them in my 60-square-foot shop. So, I needed to get the most from every tool I had. After spending far too much time trying to get my Kuntz spokeshave to do what I thought a spokeshave should be able to do, I decided to make one from scratch. That first effort did not go well, but I kept at it and eventually got a shave I was happy with. The experiments I went through to understand spokeshave design led me through a 40-year exploration of spokeshave design that continues to reveal new ideas. I thought you might find the story of this odyssey interesting, so I put together a video presentation for you.

I hope you enjoy it and share it.

Brian

You can also read an article I wrote in October 2002 for Fine Woodworking on how to tune up a Record spokeshave. This is for FWW members only, but here’s the link: http://8jiacai.com/soup-up-your-spokeshave.html

The spokeshaves are available at Lie Nielsen Tools https://www.lie-nielsen.com/products/1-sp-boggs-con-boggs-spokeshaves

Who is this course or content designed for?

This content is designed for woodworkers of all skill levels, from beginners looking to build foundational skills to experienced makers seeking advanced techniques and insights.

Do I need specialized tools to follow along?

Most projects can be completed with standard woodworking tools, although some lessons may demonstrate specialized equipment. Alternative methods are often possible using commonly available tools.

Can I learn at my own pace?

Yes. The content is intended to be followed at your own pace, allowing you to revisit lessons and practice techniques as often as needed.

What skills will I gain from this content?

You will develop a deeper understanding of woodworking principles, including design, material selection, joinery, tool usage, construction techniques, and finishing methods, depending on the topic.

Is this content suitable for beginners?

Yes. While some topics cover advanced concepts, explanations are structured to help beginners learn the fundamentals while providing valuable insights for more experienced woodworkers as well.

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Ask Brian, who is a master chairmaker with over 43 years of experience. He has made a name for himself with his award-winning furniture, innovation, and his thirst for knowledge of wood craftsmanship. One of his greatest passions is sharing that knowledge with the woodworking community, which is why we’re here!