karhennushöylä

The karhennushöylä is a traditional Finnish tool. Its name translates roughly to "cleaning plane" or "scraping plane." Historically, it was used in woodworking and construction for a variety of tasks. Primarily, it served as a scraping tool to remove excess material, smooth surfaces, or prepare wood for finishing. Unlike a standard plane that shaves wood, the karhennushöylä typically features a sharp blade held at a very low angle, designed to scrape rather than cut. This allows for effective removal of paint, glue, or rough patches without deeply digging into the wood.

These tools were often made of wood with a metal blade inserted. The design could vary, with some featuring a single blade and others a more complex arrangement. The specific form and size of a karhennushöylä would depend on its intended use and the regional traditions of its makers. While modern power tools and sandpaper have largely replaced its function in many contexts, the karhennushöylä remains a testament to traditional Finnish craftsmanship and the ingenuity of older woodworking techniques. It is sometimes collected by woodworking enthusiasts and used in historical restoration projects where authentic methods are desired.