Allright!
My entry-yes, its a wood bodied plane! The cheeks are MDF (fulfilling the rules) and the "infill" is Padauk.
I have been itching to build my own plane for a while, especially since reading David Finck's book "building and mastering wooden planes". In this book, he explains how to build a "Krenov" style hand plane ( and if you check my web-site you'll know I'm building a "krenov" style cabinet at the moment
)
When the competition was announced, I was stuck for a good idea. Man made materials, eh? Then, whilst considering making a plane, BINGO! I could make the cheeks from MDF! :roll: I was unsure if it would be stiff enough, but you'll (like me!) be pleased to know that it is. The plane works great (sorry Chris :lol: )
I have posted a load of step-by-step pictures detailing construction here...
http://www.philsville.co.uk/wooden_plane.htm
There was an amount of sapwood in the paduak which went well with the MDF-a couple of coats of Chestnut finishing oil brought it out well.
And finally, one to scare your kids with!!!
No laughing at the back! :lol:
The plane works really well-measured the shavings at 1.5 thou. It is simple to set up and really light and relaxed to use. The low profile of the body (which I kept tweaking to give a comfortable grip) makes for easy planing, and you can pull it as easily as pushing due to its shape.
The plane iron I ordered off David Fincks web site-complete with well fitting chip breaker and made of cryo A2 steel, it is a gem and cuts really well.
All in all, it was fun to make and I'm really pleased with the way it came out.
Cheers
Philly
