Step 1

This photo shows a 'blade setting block' which is simply a small piece of hard wood 6" x 2" x 1" planed perfectly flat. Some tips:

• For a fine blade setting ensure the wood is super hard.

• Check the block is perfectly flat over its length and across its width.

To remove the blade, tap on the top of the spoke shave's body in front of the throat with a small hammer. The wedge will loosen, remove the wedge and blade.

*To avoid being cut by the blade, tilt the spoke shave at an angle so that the blade will not inadvertently slide out of the bed before you can remove it with your other hand.

To replace the blade, place the spoke shave body on the 'blade setting block' of hardwood provided. Place the blade in position letting the weight of the blade sit down flat on the block of wood. Using your index finger, also ensure the blade is sitting against the bed and for the curved shave this will also stop the body rocking on the curved sole.

Whilst the spoke shave is still on the setting block, place the wedge loosely into position. To set the wedge, tap the top centre of the wedge with a small hammer using a series of medium to light taps until the wedge is firm.  Avoid one large tap to set the wedge.

Note: If blade loosens during use, the wedge needs to be set more firmly by tapping harder on the wedge. 

Sight down the sole to check the blade is set correctly and then start your planing work. If the spoke shave is not cutting correctly, reset the blade using the above procedures.

Site down the sole of the spoke shave placing your thumb over the wedge.

To take a deeper cut - tap the top of the blade to advance it.

To take a finer cut - tap the spoke shave body in front of the throat to retract the blade.

To level the blade if it is high on one side, tap the side of the blade to bring it back to level.