93-09.47
Object Name
Plane, Molding
Artist/Maker
Fitkin
Materials
Wood --Iron
Catalogue Number
93-09.47
Dimensions

Length 24.0cm x Width 3.1cm x Height 13.8cm
a- Length 24.0cm x Width 3.1cm x Height 8.2cm
b- Length 15.7cm x Width 2.5cm x Height 0.6cm
c- Length 16.9cm x Width 2.0cm x Height 0.3cm

Description

Side bead molding plane comprised of three parts, a rectangular wooden body with a side bead profile (a), a wooden wedge that tapers to a point at the bottom and is rounded at the top (b), and an iron with a rounded curve to match the side bead profile on the plane's body. The wedge and the iron fit together inside of an angled cutout in the plane's body and the wedge holds the iron in place as the plane runs across the wood surface below. Stamped on the toe of the plane is "I BLOWER", and "FITKIN". Stamped on the heel of the plane is "I BLOWER", and "4". There is also a large "F" carved into the back of the plane, and a "M" carved into the front.

History

Side beads, or beading planes, are used to put a bead along the edge of a board, and can be used in many situations, such as back boards, the bottom of table aprons, or along shelf fronts. A very versatile plane, these were, along with hollow and rounds, perhaps the most common molding plane produced. These are one of the easiest molding planes to use, with an integral fence and depth stop, and no spring. (The plane is held vertically.) Simply hold the plane against the edge of the stock being profiled, and make passes until the depth stop prevents any further cutting. For a different treatment, running the plane along two sides of a corner will produce a 3/4 bead on that corner.