Spokeshave — Lutherie Encyclopedia

SpokeshaveType: toolA two-handled shaping tool ideal for carving guitar neck profiles, heels, and other curved surfaces.## Description A spokeshave is a two-handled cutting tool with a short blade set between its handles, designed for shaping curved surfaces. The sole may be flat, concave, or convex. The blade is typically adjustable via thumbscrews and is set at a moderate cutting angle. Originally used by wheelwrights to shape spokes, the spokeshave has become a staple of luthier workshops for its ability to shape flowing curves quickly and accurately. ## Use in Lutherie The spokeshave is primarily used for carving guitar neck profiles. After rough-shaping the neck with rasps or a drawknife, the luthier uses a flat-soled spokeshave to refine the C-shape, D-shape, or V-shape profile. It is also used for shaping the neck heel transition, carving headstock volutes, and rounding over braces. A concave spokeshave is useful for shaping the exterior curve of guitar sides and other convex surfaces. The tool removes material quickly while leaving a relatively clean surface. ## Selection Guide For neck shaping, a flat-soled spokeshave is essential. Boggs-style wooden spokeshaves offer excellent control and feedback, while cast-iron models from Lie-Nielsen or Veritas provide precision adjustability. A concave-soled model is a useful second spokeshave. The blade should be high-quality steel that holds an edge through long shaping sessions. Budget 25 to 175 dollars depending on the style and maker. ## Tips - Pull strokes generally give more control than push strokes when carving a neck. - Sharpen the bl…