This is essential for making a surface smooth. Planes are available in many sizes. For household use, get one about 14 inches long. The cutting blade must be kept sharp and is adjusted for depth by a lever. Don’t bear down on the surface.
Like sawing, “Take it easy.” Be sure to work with the grain of the wood. You can be sure you are right at the first stroke, for the surface will be comparatively smooth.
If the blade tears the wood and the surface is rough or “chapped,” reverse the plane and try the other end.
When storing your plane, set it on its side – never toss it into your tool box flat down, or you may dull the blade.