Planecraft: Handplaning by Modern Methods
Published by C&J Hampton Limited: Sheffield, England 1934
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Planecraft: Hand Planing by Modern Methods (C. & J. Hampton Limited: Sheffield, 1934) is an early technical manual issued by the makers of Record tools, created to instruct both apprentices and skilled craftsmen in the precise art of planing wood by hand. Presented in a clear, practical style, it covers the use, adjustment, and maintenance of bench planes, block planes, and specialty models, alongside detailed guidance on sharpening, planing techniques, and wood preparation. Illustrated with accurate technical drawings, the manual combines workshop tradition with industrial innovation, embodying the British emphasis on precision toolmaking that defined Sheffield's reputation.
Originally priced at one shilling and sixpence, Planecraft served as both a training text and promotional publication for Record tools, reflecting the company's dedication to craftsmanship and education. The content highlights efficiency, safety, and accuracy, making it a cornerstone of mid-20th-century woodworking instruction. This first 1934 edition is a collectible example of early trade literature and will appeal to tool historians, traditional woodworkers, and enthusiasts of Sheffield's industrial heritage."
