Höyläys

Höyläys is a Finnish term that refers to the process of planing wood. It is a fundamental woodworking technique used to shape, smooth, and reduce the dimensions of lumber. The primary tool used in höyläys is a plane, which is a hand tool or a power tool equipped with a blade that shaves off thin layers of wood.

Hand planes are operated by pushing or pulling them across the surface of the wood. The depth of the cut is controlled by adjusting the angle and the projection of the blade. Different types of hand planes exist for various purposes, such as smoothing, jointing, and chamfering. Power planers, such as electric hand planers or benchtop jointers, automate the process, allowing for faster material removal and greater precision, especially on larger projects.

The goal of höyläys is to achieve a flat, smooth surface that is true to the desired dimensions. This is crucial for many woodworking applications, including furniture making, construction, and joinery. It prepares the wood for subsequent processes like sanding, finishing, or joining with other pieces. The direction of the planing cut is typically made with the grain of the wood to avoid tear-out and achieve the best surface finish. In some cases, planing against the grain may be necessary, but it requires careful technique and specialized tools.