Travisher kit
This travisher kit allows a woodworker to save money by making his own travisher rather than purchasing the completed tool.
(Click here for finished tool)
Patterns are included to guide the shaping of the tool.
My preferred arrangement is for the shavings to emerge from the top of the tool (see completed tool). The advantages of this design is that the back of the travisher remains entire giving a comfortable surface on which thumbs/fingers can push/pull; also the back of the blade is supported by the body of the tool over its full length minimising the tendency to chatter.
An alternative arrangement is to allow shavings to emerge from the back of the tool and guidance is given for this in the instructions.
Price: £82.50 plus shipping
If you are not entirely satisfied, please return the tool for a full refund, including shipping.
The Travisher kit contains
Unlike other travisher kits on the market the wood block has already been machined to accept the blade and set-screws. This leaves the maker to shape the block and to adjust the nose (in front of the blade).
- Hard maple block, (CNC) machined to accept the blade.
- Ben Orford blade – hand forged from O1 tool steel (see http://benandloisorford.com).
- Two blade-adjusting set screws, with Allen key, already fitted to the maple body.
- Instructions for making the travisher
Tools recommended for making the kit: bandsaw, drum sander and a rasp.
Images of Making a Travisher from a Kit
These pictures of the process of making a travisher from a kit were posted by Craig Regan, from New York state, on Instagram.
Follow him as seatsculpter
How to use a travisher
Travishers are most effective when held lightly, with fingers and thumbs directly in front of and behind the blade. This gives the user maximum feedback from the blade, of how it is cutting through the wood, allowing immediate and instinctive adjustments to be made.
Price: £82.50 plus shipping
If you are not entirely satisfied, please return the tool for a full refund, including shipping.
Chair Making Courses
No previous experience is necessary to successfully complete a Windsor chair making course and yet experienced woodworkers will still be fully challenged. Individual guidance and assistance will be provided as appropriate, and every effort will be made to ensure a rewarding and enjoyable course.
Chair Making Book
Written by James Mursell, this book was the first new book about the making and design of Windsor chairs for over 10 years. It was written with a broad readership in mind and is aimed at existing Windsor chair makers and also at those who are contemplating making their first chair.
Youtube Videos
Ben Orford makes the blades for my travishers.
Watch his short video about this great tool and the uses it can be put to.
Tool Testimonials
“This tool is phenomenal. I bought two, one for myself and another for my Windsor chairmaker instructor. Compared to the other travishers I have used, yours is very good to work with and everyone who has tried it loves it. I just ordered a second one and your two spokeshaves which I trust will be as enjoyable to use. Thanks again for making such great tools.” LG (USA) 2015