How To Plane Cedar Olanks

Planing cedar planks can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. However, with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve smooth, evenly surfaced planks that are ready for use in various woodworking projects. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting your journey, understanding the proper techniques for planing cedar will help you work efficiently and produce high-quality results.

Before beginning, it’s important to choose the right plane for the job. A hand plane is a great option for smaller projects or for achieving a more refined finish. However, for larger projects or when working with rough-sawn lumber, a power planer will save time and effort. Once you have selected the appropriate plane, ensure that the blades are sharp and properly adjusted. A dull or improperly adjusted blade will tear the wood fibers, resulting in a rough surface. Moreover, always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, and a dust mask, as planing cedar can generate significant amounts of sawdust.

Choosing the Right Cedars

When selecting cedar planks for planing, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure the best results. Here are the key characteristics to look for:

Species: Cedar is a diverse genus that includes numerous species, each with unique properties. For example:

Western Red Cedar: Renowned for its exceptional stability, rot resistance, and rich color.
Eastern Red Cedar: Known for its characteristic spicy aroma, durability, and tight grain.
Yellow Cedar: Valued for its bright golden hue, exceptional rot resistance, and straight grain.

Grain Pattern: The grain pattern refers to the orientation of the wood fibers within the cedar plank. Selecting planks with consistent and straight grain will result in smoother planing and a more uniform finish.

Thickness: Planing cedar planks requires selecting the appropriate thickness for your intended use. Consider the following factors:

Thickness Range	Recommended Use
1/4″ – 1/2″	For smaller projects, such as coasters, wall art, or cutting boards.
3/4″ – 1″	Suitable for larger projects, such as furniture, cabinetry, or outdoor structures.
Over 1″	Used for heavy-duty applications, such as beams, posts, or boatbuilding.

Preparing the Cedar Planks

1. Gather Your Materials

You will need the following materials:

Cedar planks
Planer
Safety glasses
Dust mask

2. Inspect and Prepare the Planks

Carefully inspect the planks for any knots, cracks, or other defects. Reject any planks that are noticeably damaged.
Remove any loose bark or debris from the planks. Use a stiff brush or wire brush to clean the surface thoroughly.
Measure the thickness of the planks. This will help you determine the correct settings for your planer.

Plank Thickness	Planer Setting
Less than 1 inch	1/16 inch or less
1 inch to 2 inches	1/8 inch or less
Over 2 inches	1/4 inch or less

Cut the planks to the desired length. This will make them easier to handle while planing.
Mark the reference edges of the planks. These marks will help you align the planks on the planer.

Selecting and Using a Planer

Selecting the right planer depends on several factors. Consider the size of your cedar planks and the desired finish. For small planks and precise work, a benchtop planer is ideal. For larger planks, a stationary planer offers more power and stability.

To use a planer, set the cutting depth to the desired thickness. Gradually feed the plank through the planer, applying even pressure. Use a push block to guide the plank and prevent kickback. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including earplugs, safety glasses, and a dust mask.

Choosing the Right Planer: Benchtop vs. Stationary

Benchtop Planers:

Compact and portable, suitable for small workshops
Ideal for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts
Limited cutting width and depth, suitable for small planks
More affordable than stationary planers

Stationary Planers:

Industrial-grade machines, heavy-duty and powerful
Suitable for professional woodworkers and large-scale operations
Wide cutting width and depth, capable of handling large planks
More expensive and require a dedicated workshop space

Feature	Benchtop Planers	Stationary Planers
Portability	Portable	Stationary
Cutting Capacity	Limited	Wide
Cost	Affordable	Expensive
Suitability	Hobbyists, DIY	Professional Woodworkers

Setting Up the Planer for Cedar Planks

1. Set the Feed Rate

Cedar is a relatively softwood, so you’ll want to use a medium feed rate to avoid tearing or sniping the wood. A good starting point is 15-20 feet per minute.

2. Adjust the Cutting Depth

For best results, set the cutting depth to about 1/16 inch. This will remove a thin layer of material, smoothing the surface of the plank without removing too much wood.

3. Use a Sharp Blade

A dull blade can tear and snag the wood, so make sure your planer blade is sharp before you begin.

4. Feed the Planks Slowly and Evenly

Once you start feeding the planks through the planer, do so slowly and evenly. This will help prevent the wood from jamming or becoming damaged. As you get closer to the end of the plank, slow down even further to avoid sniping.

Tips for Feeding Cedar Planks Through the Planer:

[Insert table here]

Tip	Description
Use a featherboard	A featherboard will help keep the plank flat against the planer table, preventing it from warping or twisting.
Support the far end of the plank	As you get closer to the end of the plank, support the far end with your hand to prevent it from sniping.
Clear away any sawdust	Sawdust can build up and cause the planer to bog down. Clear away any sawdust before it becomes a problem.

Planing the Cedar Planks

Gather Your Equipment

– Bench plane with a sharp blade
– Block plane (optional)
– Jointer (optional)
– Measuring tape or ruler
– Square
– Pencil

Prepare Your Planks

– Start by measuring and marking the desired length of the planks.
– Cut the planks to length using a saw or miter box.

Plane the Side Edges

– If you have a jointer, use it to plane the side edges of the planks to ensure they are straight and parallel.
– If you don’t have a jointer, you can use a bench plane with a straight edge or a block plane.

Plane the Top and Bottom Surfaces

– Place the plank on a flat surface and hold the bench plane at a 45-degree angle.
– Use firm, even strokes to plane the top surface until it is smooth and flat.
– Repeat the process on the bottom surface.

Sand the Planks

– Once the planks are planed, use a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth any rough edges.
– Sand in the direction of the grain to avoid scratching the wood.

5. Finishing the Planks

– Cedar planks can be left unfinished, but you may choose to apply a protective finish for added durability.
– Consider using a natural oil, such as tung oil, which will penetrate the wood and highlight its natural beauty.
– Wipe on the oil with a soft cloth and allow it to absorb into the wood.
– Buff the surface with a clean cloth to remove any excess oil.

Finishing Option	Benefits
Natural Oil	Penetrates and highlights the wood’s natural grain
Polyurethane	Provides a protective barrier against moisture and wear
Varnish	Similar to polyurethane, but creates a glossier finish

Methods for Smoothing and Finishing Cedar Planks

1. Sanding

Cedar is a softwood that requires fine-grit sandpaper (120-220) for effective sanding. Use a sanding block or orbital sander for even results. Sand with the grain to avoid damaging the wood’s surface.

2. Scraping

A sharp cabinet scraper removes surface irregularities and ridges. Hold the scraper at a 45-degree angle and gently scrape along the grain. This technique provides a smooth finish similar to sanding.

3. Planing

Power planers quickly remove excess material and smooth the surface. Adjust the depth of cut to match the desired thickness reduction. Use a sharp blade and plane with the grain for best results.

4. Wire Brushing

A wire brush softens the wood’s surface and enhances its natural texture. Brush gently in the direction of the grain to remove loose fibers and create a rustic look.

5. Washing

After sanding or scraping, wash the planks with water to remove dust and debris. Allow them to dry thoroughly before applying any finishes.

6. Finishing Techniques

Cedar planks offer versatility in finishing options. Here are some popular techniques:

Technique	Result
Raw and Unfinished	Preserves natural look and aroma, allows wood to weather naturally
Oil Finish	Enhances grain, protects against moisture, highlights warmth
Stain	Alters color, provides protection, can imitate other wood species
Paint	Conceals wood grain, offers endless color options, creates a bold statement
Polyurethane	Clear, durable protective coating, enhances sheen, resists wear and tear

The Basics of Planing Cedar Planks

When planing cedar planks, it’s crucial to use a sharp blade and a light touch. Start by making a few shallow passes to remove any rough edges or splinters. Gradually increase the depth of your passes until you achieve the desired thickness. Always plane in the direction of the grain to avoid tear-out.

Common Planing Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using a Dull Blade

A dull blade will tear and rip the wood, resulting in a poor finish. Always keep your blade sharp to ensure clean, precise cuts.

2. Planing Against the Grain

Planing against the grain will cause tear-out and damage the wood. Always plane in the direction of the grain to preserve the wood’s integrity.

3. Forcing the Plane

Forcing the plane will put unnecessary strain on the tool and the wood. Let the weight of the plane do the work, and avoid applying excessive pressure.

4. Using the Wrong Settings

Incorrect settings on your planer can lead to uneven thickness or damage to the wood. Ensure that the depth of cut and feed rate are appropriate for the task at hand.

5. Not Using a Featherboard

A featherboard helps to keep the wood firmly against the fence, preventing it from slipping or moving. This ensures accurate and safe planing.

6. Planing Too Much at Once

Removing too much material in a single pass can put stress on the wood and cause it to split or warp. Make multiple shallow passes instead.

7. Ignoring Safety Precautions

Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as eye protection, earplugs, and a dust mask. Keep your fingers away from the blade and never plane with a loose or damaged tool.

Safety Tip	Description
Wear eye protection	Shields your eyes from flying wood chips.
Use earplugs	Protects your hearing from the noise of the planer.
Wear a dust mask	Prevents inhalation of wood dust, which can cause respiratory problems.

Maintenance and Storage of Cedar Planks

Cleaning Cedar Planks

To clean your cedar planks, simply scrub them with a brush and warm soapy water. Rinse them thoroughly and allow them to air dry.

Seasoning Cedar Planks

Before using your cedar planks for the first time, you should season them. This will help to prevent them from burning and will also enhance the flavor of your food. To season your cedar planks, soak them in water for at least 1 hour. Then, place them on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes.

Storing Cedar Planks

When not in use, store your cedar planks in a cool, dry place. You can wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in a plastic bag.

Reusing Cedar Planks

Cedar planks can be reused multiple times. However, it is important to inspect them for damage before each use. If the planks are cracked or damaged, they should be discarded.

Plank Thickness

The thickness of the cedar plank will affect the cooking time. Thinner planks will cook faster than thicker planks. For most recipes, a plank that is 1/2- to 1-inch thick is ideal.

Soaking Time

The soaking time for the cedar plank will also affect the cooking time. Longer soaking times will result in a more moist plank and food. For most recipes, a soaking time of 1 to 2 hours is sufficient.

Grilling Temperature

The grilling temperature will also affect the cooking time. Lower grilling temperatures will result in a more gentle cook, while higher grilling temperatures will result in a more intense cook. For most recipes, a grilling temperature of 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal.

Safety Precautions for Cedar Planing

1. Wear Personal Protective Equipment

Always wear safety glasses, a dust mask, and earplugs when planing cedar to protect yourself from flying debris, dust, and noise.

2. Choose a Well-Ventilated Area

Cedar planing produces dust that can be harmful if inhaled. Work in a well-ventilated area or use a dust collector to minimize exposure.

3. Avoid Using Dull Blades

Dull blades are more likely to tear or gouge the cedar instead of cutting it smoothly, increasing the risk of injury and poor results.

4. Secure the Cedar

Clamp the cedar firmly to a stable surface to prevent it from moving or slipping during planing.

5. Use a Push Block

Use a push block to safely guide the cedar through the planer and protect your hands from the blades.

6. Start with a Light Cut

Avoid taking too deep of a cut in one pass. Gradually increase the depth of the cut as needed to achieve the desired thickness.

7. Check for Knots and Grain Variations

Cedar can have knots or grain variations that may affect how it planes. Adjust your planing technique accordingly to avoid tearing or splintering.

8. Clear Chips and Debris

Regularly clear away chips and debris from the planer to prevent them from interfering with the cutting process.

9. Treat Cedar with Care

Cedar is a relatively softwood, so handle it with care to avoid damaging it. Use a sharp blade, avoid excessive force, and support the cedar throughout the planing process.

Variations in Planing Methods for Different Cedar Species

Cedar is a versatile wood that can vary in hardness and grain pattern depending on the species. As such, the best planing methods may differ slightly for different cedar types.

Western Red Cedar

Western red cedar is a softwood with a straight grain and few knots. It is relatively easy to plane, but it is important to use sharp blades to avoid tear-out. A light touch is also recommended to prevent denting the wood.

Eastern Red Cedar

Eastern red cedar is a hardwood with a tighter grain and more knots than western red cedar. It is more difficult to plane, and it is important to use sharp blades and a slow feed rate to avoid burning the wood.

Northern White Cedar

Northern white cedar is a softwood with a straight grain and few knots. It is similar to western red cedar in terms of planing difficulty, but it is slightly harder and may require a bit more force. It is important to use sharp blades to avoid tear-out.

Port Orford Cedar

Port Orford cedar is a hardwood with a straight grain and few knots. It is the hardest of the cedar species and can be difficult to plane. It is important to use sharp blades and a slow feed rate to avoid burning the wood.

Spanish Cedar

Spanish cedar is a hardwood with a straight grain and few knots. It is similar to Port Orford cedar in terms of planing difficulty, but it is slightly softer. It is important to use sharp blades and a slow feed rate to avoid burning the wood.

Incense Cedar

Incense cedar is a softwood with a wavy grain and many knots. It is the most difficult of the cedar species to plane, and it is important to use sharp blades and a slow feed rate to avoid tear-out. It may also be necessary to use a backing board to prevent the wood from splintering.

Yellow Cedar

Yellow cedar is a softwood with a straight grain and few knots. It is similar to western red cedar in terms of planing difficulty, but it is slightly harder. It is important to use sharp blades to avoid tear-out.

Table of Planing Methods for Different Cedar Species

Species	Planing Difficulty	Tips
Western Red Cedar	Easy	Use sharp blades and a light touch.
Eastern Red Cedar	Difficult	Use sharp blades, a slow feed rate, and avoid burning the wood.
Northern White Cedar	Moderate	Use sharp blades and avoid tear-out.
Port Orford Cedar	Difficult	Use sharp blades, a slow feed rate, and avoid burning the wood.
Spanish Cedar	Moderate	Use sharp blades, a slow feed rate, and avoid burning the wood.
Incense Cedar	Difficult	Use sharp blades, a slow feed rate, and a backing board to prevent splintering.
Yellow Cedar	Moderate	Use sharp blades and avoid tear-out.

Cedar olanks are a great choice for a variety of woodworking projects, but they can be difficult to plane if you don’t have the right tools and techniques. Here are a few tips to help you get the best results when planing cedar olanks:

1. Use a sharp planer blade. A dull blade will tear the cedar fibers and leave a rough finish.
2. Set the planer to the correct depth of cut. If the cut is too deep, you will tear the wood. If the cut is too shallow, you will not remove enough material and the surface will be uneven.
3. Feed the olanks into the planer slowly and evenly. If you feed them too quickly, you will tear the wood.
4. Keep the planer table clean. If the table is dirty, the cedar olanks will stick to it and tear.
5. Use a planer guard to protect your hands from the blade.