: Nick mentions in his book that a convex plane is useful. This is
: convex across the width, not the length like the Lie Nielsen
: convex sole block plane. Every commercial plane I see is convex
: along the length like a compass plane.

: A few questions:

: 1. Has anyone tried to modify a standard block plane as Nick
: suggests and what do you think of the modified plane?
: 2. What radius did you use and what works the best?
: 3. Any suggestions of tools or modified tools to make the interior
: smoothing an easier experience?

I bought a second hand, slightly damaged Stanley block plane intending to do this. But then I read lots of posts suggesting a paint or cabinet scraper. So I bought a dirt cheap paint scraper, I think it cost $10 NZ or something. It was incredibly effective, and made smoothing off the bumps between strips a piece of cake. Then hand sanding with 80 grit and all done.

It's not billiard smooth, and the finish is a bit rubbish with 80 grit compared to 180grit on the exterior, but it worked really well and was, I think, a heck of a lot easier than using a plane. And cheaper. The surface is such that the angles and curves are all different, so I can't see a plan being much use beyond the flat of the hull, leaving the chines and ends to do with another tool anyway.

Cheers, Ian