Sometimes it’s the small details that make the biggest difference. Planing off the sharp corner of a board to create a neat bevelled edge is one of those details. With just a block plane and a few minutes of care, you can turn a sharp edge into something refined, safe, and visually pleasing.
In this guide, we’ll look at why chamfers matter, when to use them, and how to make them with confidence using your block plane.
Wait, aren’t you talking about an Arris?
In some industries in some parts of the world, you will hear the term ‘arris’ used. Confusingly as a noun this can mean the sharp edge formed by two meeting surfaces, but as a verb (‘to arris’) it often means to create a small chamfer. We’ll stick with ‘chamfer’ in this article for this reason - isn’t English fun!
Why Chamfer?
Chamfers serve both practical and aesthetic purposes:
Comfort – A crisp, sharp corner can feel harsh to the touch. A chamfer softens the edge without making it look rounded.
Durability – Corners are fragile and prone to splintering. A chamfer reduces that risk.
Visual appeal – A well-placed chamfer can highlight the lines of your project and give it a professional finish.
Whether you’re building furniture, cabinetry, or even a simple shelf, chamfers are a subtle way to elevate your work.
The Block Plane Advantage
A block plane is the perfect tool for chamfering. Its small size and low cutting angle make it easy to control with one hand, allowing you to take fine, precise shavings. Unlike sanding, which can leave edges fuzzy or uneven, a sharp block plane gives a crisp, clean bevel that catches the light beautifully.
How to Chamfer with a Block Plane
1. Mark Your Chamfer (Optional)
For a consistent bevel, mark the desired width of the chamfer on both adjacent faces of your corner using a pencil or marking gauge. This is particularly helpful for a larger chamfer where it is easier to notice if things get uneven.
If you don’t want to mark the chamfer, just count your plane strokes and keep the same number on each edge.
2. Start with the Long-Grain Edges
Hold the block plane at about 45° to the face of the board and take smooth, controlled strokes along long edges until you meet your layout line (or the chamfer is as heavy as you want it). This prevents the plane from tearing out fibres as you plane across the end grain.
3. Plane the Ends
Now simply take the same number of strokes, or work to the same line on the end grain as you did on the long edges. Because you’ve already taken the corner off you’re much less likely to suffer tear-out.
Tips for Success
Keep it Sharp – A keen edge on your block plane blade is the difference between a crisp chamfer and a ragged one.
Use Your Fingers As a Fence – Rest a finger against the adjacent face of the board to guide the plane and keep your cuts even.
Work With The Grain – Always plane in the direction that avoids lifting fibres. If you feel resistance or see tear-out, switch directions.
Consistency Matters – Aim for uniform width and angle along the entire edge, even on long boards.
Go Easy – It’s always tempting to take too much material away and end up making your piece look a bit clumsy. Two or three plane strokes is a usually a safe bet – you can always come back later and make the chamfer larger.
The Finishing Touch
Chamfering is a deceptively simple detail that instantly improves both the look and feel of your work. With a sharp block plane and a steady hand, you can create crisp, clean bevels that show care and craftsmanship.