Recommended Reading Material
- Patented Transitional & Metalic
Planes In America, Volumes I & II.
By Roger K. Smith. Affectionately referred to as PTAMPIA Vol's
I & II ( tool collectors love to abbreviate book titles ).
These two books fall into the "MUST HAVE" category
if you have any interest in old woodworking planes, their makers,
developement, and history. Profusely illustrated, the definitive
works that set the standard for all books on the subject of tools.
- Antique & Collectible Stanley Tools:
Guide to Identity and Value. By John Walter. The latest
edition of his book is a whopping 885 pages. This book covers
the history of the Stanley Rule & Level Co., their entire
line of tools and other related ephemera, tool descriptions,
tool dating, type studies, current market prices, you name it
! Most important to this site is the published type study on
the Miller's Patent Planes of which all references to type on
this site are derived from.
- Manufactured and Patented Spokeshaves.
By Tom Lamond. Another fine work covering the history and developement
of Spokeshaves. An incredible volume of information on this subject,
more than most people could possibly imagine. Profusely illustrated
with photograghs and line art, history, and more.
- The American Patented Brace. By Dr.Ronald Pearson. Covers all known patented
Braces manufactured in America. This book uses original patent
drawings and covers the history and maker of each brace listed.
- American Levels and Their Makers, Volume
1. By Don Rosebrook. This new publication
is lavishly illustrated and is the first definitive work on Amercian
Levels. Covers all aspects of the subject thoroughly history,
makers, and developement.
There are many fine books available on
tools and related subjects, far too many for me to list on this
site. I would recommend two web based resources for more information
on these publications and others available for purchase.
- Martin J Donnelly Antique Tools, http://www.mjdtools.com , this site carries these and just about every
other book one could possibly be looking for on the subject of
tools and there useage.
- The Museum of Woodworking Tools, http://www.toolsforworkingwood.com , they carry every book currently published
by the Astragal Press.