Spokeshave

What is it?

The spokeshave has handles on both sides of a short sole and a blade that adjusts, letting you shape curved and concave surfaces. It is the tool for spokes, chair parts, and curved rails.

What is it used for?

• Shaping curved and contoured parts
• Smoothing concave and convex surfaces
• Chair and furniture parts

How to choose

A flat-bottom spokeshave suits convex work and a rounded sole suits concave curves. Match the sole to the shape you cut.

Anatomy

Understanding the parts of a spokeshave helps you use, maintain, and buy it with confidence.

• Body: the main working portion of the tool
• Working end: the part that contacts the material
• Handle: the part you grip for control and leverage

Materials & construction

Quality spokeshaves are made from hardened, heat-treated steel (often chrome-vanadium or high-carbon) chosen for strength, edge retention, and resistance to wear and corrosion.

Safety & maintenance

• Inspect the tool before use and replace any that are worn or damaged
• Use the right tool for the job and apply controlled force
• Store tools clean and dry to prevent corrosion
• Wear appropriate eye protection for the work

Also known as

curved spokeshave, round spokeshave