: After I finish lofting (I have one of three panels done) and after I cut out
: the panels, I will need to cut a 45 degree bevel along the inside edges of
: the panels for the S&G canoe I'm building. I know there are lots of ways
: to do this, but I'm looking for advice on the most idiot proof, I guess. I
: don't own a router or know how to use one. I don't own a dremel. I could
: presumably borrow either and practice.

: One method is to purchase a Chamfer bit for either a router or the Dremel and
: do it that way. I assume the tool is stationary and you move the wood past
: it?

: I also see in the Japan Woodworker catalog a 45 degree Chamfer plane. I kind
: of like that idea, even though they are $60. Anyone ever use one? Lee
: Valley has a cheaper but less adjustable version which I'd be afraid to
: use as it looks like it would require more experience. Looks like you just
: lean it agains a piece of wood and go at it, which would make for a lot of
: variation in the bevel, I would think.

: Thanks,

: Patsy

Hi Patsy,

I'm not sure why you need a 45 degree angle? But then I'm never build one of these. If you are talking about scarfing the strips togheter to make long enough panels then you want more than 45 degrees. If you are beveling the edges so the panels will fit tightly together along the length, then I suspect you will want an angle that is 1/2 the angle that the panels will make when they are joined. This angle is unlikely to be 45 degrees, and even worse will likely change given the location in the canoe, as the panel will twist as it joins together. You would want a rolling bevel

So first thing is I'd make sure you do need a 45 degree angle.

Assuming the answer is yes:
I'd also recomend using a plane you may get a bit of help having a guide strip that is say, 1/2 x 1/2 inch x 2 ft or so. if you clamp this so that it is 1/2inch + the thickness of the plywood from the edge of the plywood. you can use it as a guide, making sure you do not over cut the bevel. The Plane should be at an angle so the tail is on the guide, and the blade hits the plywood on a angle (so you do not plane down the guide). do a foot or two at a time, and then move to the next section.

Once again, this is what I might try, I've never actually tried it, but it seems reasonable to me. I'd recomend practice piece first though.

if you try this, let us know how it goes.

cheers,

Myrl