Spokeshave
A spokeshave is a traditional hand tool used in furniture making and woodworking. It's similar to a plane but smaller and more versatile, making it perfect for shaping curved surfaces and detailed work. Think of it as a precise wood-shaping tool that furniture makers use to smooth and shape wooden parts, especially on chairs, tables, and custom furniture pieces. When you see this term in a resume, it often indicates that the candidate has experience with traditional woodworking methods and fine detail work. Similar tools include drawknives and planes, but spokeshaves are particularly valued for their ability to work on both concave and convex surfaces.
Examples in Resumes
Crafted custom chair spindles using Spokeshave techniques for detailed shaping
Refined wooden surfaces with traditional tools including Spokeshave and hand planes
Restored antique furniture pieces utilizing Spokeshave for authentic period-appropriate finishing
Typical job title: "Furniture Makers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Furniture Makers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Trade Shows & Events
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you train someone to properly use a spokeshave for different furniture pieces?
Expected Answer: A senior craftsperson should explain teaching methods, safety considerations, and different techniques for various wood types and shapes. They should mention proper tool maintenance and common mistakes to avoid.
Q: Describe a complex project where you used a spokeshave to solve a particular challenge.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate problem-solving abilities, explain how they chose specific techniques, and show understanding of when traditional tools are more appropriate than power tools.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the different types of spokeshaves and when do you use each?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain flat bottom vs. rounded bottom spokeshaves, metal vs. wooden ones, and describe appropriate uses for each type in furniture making.
Q: How do you maintain and sharpen a spokeshave?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic maintenance procedures, sharpening techniques, and how to keep the tool in good working condition for different types of wood.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a spokeshave used for in furniture making?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic uses like shaping curved surfaces, smoothing wood, and common applications in furniture projects.
Q: What safety precautions do you take when using a spokeshave?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic safety practices, proper hand positioning, and workplace organization.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic spokeshave operation
- Simple curved surface shaping
- Tool maintenance basics
- Understanding of wood grain direction
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex shape creation
- Various spokeshave types usage
- Detailed furniture part shaping
- Tool sharpening and maintenance
Senior (5+ years)
- Master-level shape control
- Training and supervision
- Complex project planning
- Traditional technique preservation
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic wood grain direction
- Lack of knowledge about tool maintenance
- No experience with hand tools
- Poor understanding of safety practices
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