Understanding the Art and Tools of Hand Hewn Woodworking and the Adze Axe.

Woodworking has a rich history shaped by traditional techniques and specialized tools. Among these, hand hewn wood and the adze axe stand out for their craftsmanship and unique role in shaping timber. This post explores what hand hewn wood means, the function of an adze axe, and why these elements remain relevant today.

Hand Hewn Timber Close-up

What Does Hand Hewn Mean?

Hand hewn refers to wood that has been shaped manually using hand tools rather than machinery. This process involves removing the rounded surface of a log to create flat, squared beams or planks. The result is a distinctive texture and appearance that reflects the marks left by the tools.

How Hand Hewning Works

• Selection of timber: Typically, straight logs with minimal knots are chosen.

• Scoring: The craftsman uses an axe or adze to make vertical cuts along the log.

• Juggling: The wood between the scored lines is removed.

• Hewing: The surface is smoothed and squared by chopping with a broad axe or adze.

  
  

This method was common before sawmills became widespread. It allowed builders to create sturdy beams for homes, barns, and furniture.

Why Hand Hewn Wood Matters

• Aesthetic appeal: The uneven, textured surface gives a rustic, authentic look.

• Historical value: Many old buildings feature hand hewn beams, preserving traditional craftsmanship.

• Durability: Properly hewn wood can be very strong and long-lasting.

  
  

Today, hand hewn wood is prized in restoration projects and custom woodworking for its character and connection to the past.

What Is an Adze Axe?

An adze axe, often just called an adze, is a traditional woodworking tool used to shape and smooth wood surfaces. It looks like a small axe but with the blade set perpendicular to the handle rather than in line with it.

A detailed vintage illustration showcasing a variety of traditional hand tools such as felling axes, hatchets, a carpenter's adze, a scotch adze, and knives, each labeled with its specific type and use.

Design and Function

• Blade orientation: The blade is curved and set at a right angle to the handle.

• Usage: The tool is swung in a chopping motion to shave off thin layers of wood.

• Control: The perpendicular blade allows for precise control when smoothing or hollowing wood.

  
  

Adzes come in various sizes and shapes depending on their specific use, such as hollowing out bowls or flattening beams.

How the Adze Axe Is Used in Hand Hewning

The adze is essential for the final smoothing stage of hand hewing. After rough shaping with an axe, the adze removes smaller wood chips and evens out the surface. This gives the beam a more finished look while retaining the hand-crafted texture.

Practical Examples of Hand Hewn Wood and Adze Use

• Historic homes: Many colonial and pioneer homes feature hand hewn beams shaped with adzes.

• Furniture making: Custom tables and benches sometimes use hand hewn wood for a rustic style.

• Restoration projects: Craftsmen use adzes to repair or replicate original hand hewn beams in old buildings.

  
  

The combination of hand hewing and adze work creates wood pieces that tell a story through their texture and form.

A man skillfully shapes a large log using an adze axe.

Why Choose Hand Hewn Wood and Adze Tools Today?

Despite modern machinery, many woodworkers and builders choose hand hewn wood and adze tools for several reasons:

• Unique character: Machine-cut wood lacks the irregularities that give hand hewn wood its charm.

• Connection to tradition: Using these tools honors centuries of woodworking heritage.

• Sustainability: Hand tools require no electricity and produce less waste.

• Skill development: Working with an adze and axe sharpens craftsmanship and attention to detail.