October 19-23, 2026

Japanese Planes:

Setup & Use

with Andrew Hunter

$1,050

Material fee will depend on which plane students choose to purchase.

Andrew will help students with their choice.

Part of the MASW Higher Education Program

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Workshop Description

At first glance, a Japanese hand plane (Kanna) may appear simple-a blade set in a wooden block. In reality, it is a finely tuned instrument with subtle qualities that demand skill and understanding. Unlike Western planes, a Kanna does not come ready to use out of the box. Instead, it provides the raw materials, leaving it up to the craftsman to achieve the precise fit between blade and block. In this comprehensive five-day course, Andrew brings together everything students need to know about setting up and using a Japanese plane. Each student will receive a new Yamamoto plane: beginners will start with the 54 mm block plane, while returning students may opt for the larger, more advanced 65 mm smoothing plane. Students may also bring their own planes in need of tuning. Andrew will guide participants step by step through sharpening and shaping the blade, fitting the blade and chip breaker, profiling the sole, and achieving peak performance. Along the way, students will learn how to use the Kanna with their whole body-building technique, rhythm, and confidence at the bench. By the end of the class, students will take home a fully operational Japanese hand plane and, more importantly, the knowledge to keep it tuned and performing for years to come.

Key Points

  • History of Japanese planes
  • Flattening the back (ura dashi)
  • Fitting the blade to the block
  • Shaping the sole profile
  • Setting up the chip breaker
  • Lots of sharpening!
  • Techniques for using the plane

Meet the Craftsperson

Andrew Hunter

Visit the Full Week Programs page for complete details on our weeklong workshops!

$1,050.00

Japanese Planes: Setup & Use with Andrew Hunter October 19-23, 2026

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