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What Does a Thickness Planer Do? The Key to Dimensioned Lumber and Consistent Stock

2025-11-13


A thickness planer (or surface planer) is a machine used to reduce a rough or pre-flattened board to a specific, uniform thickness across its entire length and width.


It works by passing the workpiece under a rotating cutterhead equipped with multiple knives, which shaves off a precise amount of material.


The critical feature is that the machine ensures the finished board has two perfectly parallel faces.


It is typically used after one face of a board has been flattened on a jointer. The planer then references that flat face to create a parallel opposite face.


This process is essential for preparing stock for fine furniture making, cabinetry, and any project requiring lumber of consistent dimensions.