Planointi

Planointi is the woodworking process of smoothing and flattening wood surfaces by removing thin layers with a plane. In English, the term is commonly translated as planing, and it can be performed with hand planes or power planers to produce a flat, true surface and, in some cases, a specific thickness.

Historically, planointi has been essential in preparing rough lumber for furniture, cabinetry, and joinery. The goal is to eliminate irregularities such as warps, cups, and rough sawn surfaces, enabling accurate layout and tight-fitting joints. Proper planointi relies on controlled blade sharpness, consistent feed direction, and attention to grain orientation to minimize tear-out.

The main tools used are hand planes and power planers. Hand planes include jack planes and smoother planes for initial flattening and finishing, as well as jointer planes for edge flattening. Power planers and thickness planers remove material more quickly, with thickness planers designed to bring boards to a uniform thickness. Skilled planointi involves jointing edges, checking for straightness with a straightedge, and completing final passes to achieve a smooth, even surface.

Quality in planointi is measured by flatness, straightness, and surface smoothness. Tolerances depend on the project, but common objectives are true edges, uniform thickness, and consistent surface texture suitable for glue joints or finishing. Moisture content and wood species influence planing behavior, including tear-out tendencies and blade wear.

Safety and maintenance focus on sharp blades, proper blade setting, and protective gear. Regular cleaning and blade sharpening extend tool life and improve results, while correct technique reduces the risk of kickback and surface gouges. Planointi remains a fundamental step in woodworking, underpinning accurate construction and high-quality finishes.