Making your own chisel handles is a rewarding woodworking project that allows you to create personalized and ergonomic handles for your chisels. To make chisel handles, you don’t necessarily need a lathe. You can shape them with a drawknife, spokeshave, plane, or chisel.
Start by removing the old handle by cutting off the top and splitting it away from the tang. If it’s a composite handle, saw lengthwise down to the tang and split the remains. The tangs on chisels can be four-sided and tapered or cylindrical with small raised “fins.”
The pilot hole for the tang should be smaller than the tang itself. Ferrules can be used to prevent handle splitting and should be at least the diameter of the chisel’s bolster. Handles can be made on a lathe or shaped by hand.
For socket chisels, adhesive isn’t necessary if the handle is fitted properly. Wrapping a piece of cotton cloth around the tenon and wetting it with boiled linseed oil can create a tighter fit.
So, if you’re looking to give your chisels a customized touch, stay tuned for this
DIY chisel handle tutorial, where I’ll provide step-by-step instructions and valuable tips for making durable and comfortable chisel handles.
Tools and Materials Needed for Making Chisel Handles
Before you start making chisel handles, gather the necessary tools and materials to ensure a successful project. Crafting durable and comfortable chisel handles requires the right combination of tools and quality materials. Here are the essential items you will need:
Tools:
- Drawknife: A versatile tool for shaping the handle.
- Spokeshave: Ideal for refining the shape and smoothing the surface of the handle.
- Plane: Used to flatten and level the handle.
- Chisel: Helpful for fine-tuning the handle’s details.
Materials:
- Wood: Choose a durable and dense wood species for your chisel handle, such as ash, hickory, or oak.
- Ferrules: These metal rings can be used to reinforce the handle and prevent splitting. Make sure the ferrule’s diameter matches the chisel’s bolster.
- Cotton cloth: Use this to wrap around the tenon and create a tighter fit for socket chisels.
- Boiled linseed oil: Applying this oil to the cotton cloth will help lubricate and swell the wood, creating a more secure attachment.
Once you have gathered all the necessary tools and materials, you will be ready to embark on your chisel handle crafting journey. Remember to prioritize safety by wearing protective gear and working in a well-ventilated area.
| Tool |
Material |
| Drawknife |
Wood |
| Spokeshave |
Ferrules |
| Plane |
Cotton cloth |
| Chisel |
Boiled linseed oil |
By having the right tools and materials at hand, you will be well-equipped to create beautifully crafted chisel handles that not only enhance the functionality of your chisels but also reflect your personal craftsmanship.
What Is the Process for Creating Custom Chisel Handles?
When it comes to custom chisel handles, the process to create your own chisel handles can be quite versatile. It typically involves selecting the desired material, designing the handle shape, and performing precise measurements. With expert woodworking skills and the right tools, individuals can fashion unique chisel handles tailored to their specific preferences and needs.
Removing the Old Chisel Handle
Before you can create a new chisel handle, you need to remove the old one. Follow these steps to safely and effectively remove the old chisel handle.
If it’s a composite handle, start by sawing lengthwise down to the tang. Then, using a chisel or similar tool, carefully split the remains of the handle away from the tang. For chisels with four-sided and tapered tangs, begin by cutting off the top of the handle. Next, use a mallet and chisel to split the handle away from the tang. When dealing with cylindrical tangs with raised “fins,” carefully saw off the top of the handle and split the remaining piece away from the tang.
Step-by-step Guide:
- Cut off the top of the old chisel handle using a saw.
- If applicable, saw lengthwise down to the tang and split the remains of the handle away from the tang.
- For chisels with four-sided and tapered tangs, use a mallet and chisel to split the handle away from the tang.
- For chisels with cylindrical tangs with raised “fins,” saw off the top of the handle and split the remaining piece away from the tang.
Once the old handle has been successfully removed, you can move on to crafting the new chisel handle.
| Tools needed: |
Materials needed: |
| Drawknife |
Chisel blank |
| Spokeshave |
Handle material (e.g., wood, resin, composite, etc.) |
| Plane |
Ferrules (to prevent handle splitting) |
| Chisel |
Cotton cloth |
With the old handle removed and the necessary tools and materials prepared, you’re now ready to move onto the next phase of chisel handle making – crafting the new handle.
Are the Chisel Handles Related to the Chisel Size?
When it comes to choosing the correct chisel size, many people wonder if the chisel handles are related to the size of the chisel. The answer is no; the handles are not directly related to the chisel size. Chisel handles are designed to provide a comfortable grip and control, regardless of the chisel size. It’s important to select a handle that feels ergonomic and secure in your hand for efficient and safe woodworking.
Before you can create a new chisel handle, you need to remove the old one. Follow these steps to safely and effectively remove the old chisel handle.
If it’s a composite handle, start by sawing lengthwise down to the tang. Then, using a chisel or similar tool, carefully split the remains of the handle away from the tang. For chisels with four-sided and tapered tangs, begin by cutting off the top of the handle. Next, use a mallet and chisel to split the handle away from the tang. When dealing with cylindrical tangs with raised “fins,” carefully saw off the top of the handle and split the remaining piece away from the tang.
Step-by-step Guide:
- Cut off the top of the old chisel handle using a saw.
- If applicable, saw lengthwise down to the tang and split the remains of the handle away from the tang.
- For chisels with four-sided and tapered tangs, use a mallet and chisel to split the handle away from the tang.
- For chisels with cylindrical tangs with raised “fins,” saw off the top of the handle and split the remaining piece away from the tang.
Once the old handle has been successfully removed, you can move on to crafting the new chisel handle.
| Tools needed: |
Materials needed: |
| Drawknife |
Chisel blank |
| Spokeshave |
Handle material (e.g., wood, resin, composite, etc.) |
| Plane |
Ferrules (to prevent handle splitting) |
| Chisel |
Cotton cloth |
With the old handle removed and the necessary tools and materials prepared, you’re now ready to move onto the next phase of chisel handle making – crafting the new handle.
Crafting the New Chisel Handle
Now that you have
removed the old chisel handle, it’s time to craft a new one that will provide comfort and control during your woodworking projects. The process of creating a new chisel handle can be done with various hand tools, allowing for customization and a personal touch.
One of the tools you can use is a drawknife, which allows you to shape the handle by pulling the blade towards you. This method is great for removing excess material and creating a smooth, ergonomic grip. Another option is a spokeshave, which is used to shape rounded handles or create decorative details.
If you prefer a more precise approach, a plane or chisel can be used to refine the shape of the handle. These tools allow you to carefully remove small amounts of wood and achieve a desired form. Experimenting with different techniques will help you find the best method for your chisel handle design.
Chisel Handle Design Ideas
When crafting a new chisel handle, you have the opportunity to explore various design ideas. The shape of the handle can greatly impact your grip and control, so it’s essential to consider your personal preferences and the type of woodworking projects you’ll be undertaking.
For example, a handle with a flared end can provide a more secure grip and prevent the tool from slipping out of your hand. Adding decorative details such as grooves or beads can enhance the visual appeal of the handle and make it stand out in your workshop.
Remember, the design of the handle should prioritize functionality and comfort. Take into account the size of your hand and how you typically hold a chisel. By creating a handle that fits your unique needs, you’ll enjoy a more enjoyable and precise woodworking experience.
| Hand Tool |
Use |
| Drawknife |
Shaping the handle by removing excess material |
| Spokeshave |
Shaping rounded handles or creating decorative details |
| Plane |
Refining the shape of the handle with precision |
| Chisel |
Refining the shape of the handle with precision |
Can I Use the Chisel Handles I’ve Made to Carve With?
Yes, you can certainly use the chisel handles you’ve made for carving with chisels. These handles will provide you with a comfortable grip and control while working on your carving projects. Ensure that the handles fit securely onto your chisels, allowing for precise movements and reducing the risk of slipping during carving.
Now that you have
removed the old chisel handle, it’s time to craft a new one that will provide comfort and control during your woodworking projects. The process of creating a new chisel handle can be done with various hand tools, allowing for customization and a personal touch.
One of the tools you can use is a drawknife, which allows you to shape the handle by pulling the blade towards you. This method is great for removing excess material and creating a smooth, ergonomic grip. Another option is a spokeshave, which is used to shape rounded handles or create decorative details.
If you prefer a more precise approach, a plane or chisel can be used to refine the shape of the handle. These tools allow you to carefully remove small amounts of wood and achieve a desired form. Experimenting with different techniques will help you find the best method for your chisel handle design.
Chisel Handle Design Ideas
When crafting a new chisel handle, you have the opportunity to explore various design ideas. The shape of the handle can greatly impact your grip and control, so it’s essential to consider your personal preferences and the type of woodworking projects you’ll be undertaking.
For example, a handle with a flared end can provide a more secure grip and prevent the tool from slipping out of your hand. Adding decorative details such as grooves or beads can enhance the visual appeal of the handle and make it stand out in your workshop.
Remember, the design of the handle should prioritize functionality and comfort. Take into account the size of your hand and how you typically hold a chisel. By creating a handle that fits your unique needs, you’ll enjoy a more enjoyable and precise woodworking experience.
| Hand Tool |
Use |
| Drawknife |
Shaping the handle by removing excess material |
| Spokeshave |
Shaping rounded handles or creating decorative details |
| Plane |
Refining the shape of the handle with precision |
| Chisel |
Refining the shape of the handle with precision |
Attaching the New Chisel Handle
With the new chisel handle crafted, it’s time to securely attach it to the chisel for optimal performance and longevity. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure a proper and durable attachment.
1. Fitting the Handle: First, make sure the pilot hole for the tang is slightly smaller than the tang itself. This will ensure a tight fit. Use a drill bit that matches the size of the tang, and carefully drill into the new handle.
2. Using Ferrules: To prevent handle splitting, consider using ferrules. These metal sleeves should be at least the diameter of the chisel’s bolster. Slide the ferrule onto the tang before inserting it into the handle. This will add extra strength and stability to the attachment.
3. Socket Chisels: If you’re working with socket chisels, adhesive isn’t necessary if the handle is fitted properly. However, for added security, you can use a small amount of adhesive in the pilot hole before inserting the tang. This will create a stronger bond between the handle and the chisel.
4. Tightening the Fit: To create an even tighter fit for the handle, wrap a piece of cotton cloth around the tenon of the chisel’s tang. Then, wet the cloth with boiled linseed oil. This will cause the cloth to swell, filling any small gaps and creating a snug connection between the handle and the tang.
By following these steps, you can confidently attach your newly crafted chisel handle. Remember to test the fit before applying any adhesive and make any necessary adjustments. With a secure attachment, your chisel will be ready to use for all your woodworking projects.
