A wood rasp is a hand tool that resembles a file but has individual, pointed teeth instead of continuous grooves. With each stroke, these teeth remove coarser wood shavings, allowing you to remove material quickly and shape wood. A rasp is coarser than a file: you use it for rough preliminary work, after which you finish with a file and sandpaper for a smooth surface.
Application
- Shaping — rounding off edges, working curves and fitting wood joints
- Fitting — trimming a door, part of a frame or a stair handrail until it fits precisely
- Sculptural and fine work — in wood carving and modelling curved shapes
Types and use
- Half-round rasp — one flat and one curved side, suitable for both flat surfaces and concave curves
- Round rasp (rat-tail) — for opening out holes and round recesses
- Hand rasp or Surform type — with a replaceable blade that clears away the shaving
Always work with the grain and apply pressure during the forward stroke; on the return stroke you lift the rasp. Secure the workpiece in a vice or clamp, and clean the teeth regularly with a rasp brush so they do not clog up.
Related terms
- Tools
- Wood
- Wood carving
- Planing
- Routing
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