Not a Plain Plane

decorative block plane

I bought a Lie Nielsen Low Angle Block Plane after reading Seth Keller’s article, 5 Expensive But Worth Every Penny Woodworking Tools. I LOVE the plane and use it all the time, but I took this amazing tool a step further by sending it to Jenny Bower to be engraved.

A plane that was already a wonderful tool became even better thanks to the incredible engraving Jenny did on it.

To be fair, the plane doesn’t cut any better or hold an edge any longer, but this embellishment is a treat to look at, and I appreciate having one of my favorite tools made even better by this custom engraving.

person using a plane

For me and my shop, I’ll put this one in the category of life being about the journey, not the destination. This plane functioned perfectly, and I already enjoyed having this plane in my hand. Now I smile every time I use it and feel the graceful curves of each of Jenny’s cuts in my hand.

plane on a piece of wood

Visit Jenny’s website to learn more about her and her engraving.

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8 Responses to “Not a Plain Plane”

  1. The Cuz

    Beautiful work, and great idea. I love the idea of the engraving as long as I know that it is one of a kind. It must be a pleasure to work with, seeing the beauty of the tool while creating beautiful woodwork.

  2. Charles Hopkins

    I’m in need of a planer.

  3. David Tigwell

    Well, that's just plane beautiful! I love my LN low-angle block, but it's much planer!

  4. Rick Lloyd

    Thank you for this. This is now on my shopping list.

  5. Clifford Bloom

    I was in the market to purchase a jointer. Then I took my great grandfathers jointer plane out of his tool box along with the other planes, some 100 plus chisels, saws, carving and other woodworking tools. Rebuilt some handles and replaced some blades and came to an epiphany. I also get some decent exercise with jointer plane, draw knife, spoke shave, chisels, etc. I have invested in a couple Lei Nielsen planes and vises and built about 6 boats with these tools. Highly recommended. BUT, I also have a couple old (maybe 100 years +) Stanley planes that are in my opinion every bit as good as LN.

  6. Brian H Murphy

    I have 2 planes from 1980 that they made with the special letter that they sent out that I would like to have engraved..!

  7. Tom Leftley

    What was the purpose or intent of having it engraved? Is this the only tool that you have engraved or are there others? I don't understand the significance or cost of engraving.

  8. Jim Belknap

    What a beautiful piece of work she did on your plane! WOW, it’s beautiful!