>Woodyah: Precision hand plane parts born from passion and perseverance. My journey began with a simple idea—to create high-quality, readily available replacement parts for antique hand planes. Then COVID hit. But even a pandemic couldn't stop my determination. A chance meeting with a local machinist, who generously shared his expertise, proved pivotal. Those early lessons fueled my growth, transforming my initial 3D-printed prototypes into the expertly machined stainless steel components you see today. Long nights spent at the library refining designs alongside a talented designer, countless trips back and forth, and eventually, the leap into manufacturing—it was a journey filled with challenges and rewards.
The transition to manufacturing was also significantly aided by 3D design, eliminating the need for sand casting and allowing for rapid design iterations. A significant breakthrough came with the creation of our Tote Turner. A member of the CIHI community stepped up to assist in printing strong SLS Tote Turners.
However, sourcing screws to secure the turner proved unexpectedly difficult. The taps needed to create the threads for the rear screw were impossible to find. A chance connection led me to a factory willing to partner with me, believing in Woodyah's potential from the start. Their collaboration was invaluable. This whole process was born out of frustration of not wanting to pay full price for a shooting plane.
I was tired of endless delays and poorly made parts holding up my projects. The quality control on replacement parts was, frankly, unreliable. Screws were sloppy; threads were often stripped. So, I designed a superior screw head, compatible with all my tools, offering a secure hold. I have the non standard threads remade and they spin with ease. It can be tightened with either a flathead or your fingers, providing the perfect balance of function and ease of use.
These screws are a best-seller now—a testament to the unwavering commitment to quality that fuels Woodyah. The rest, as they say, is history. We look forward to continued growth, providing woodworkers with the precision parts they deserve, and continuing to be part of the amazing community of passionate artisans we serve.