scraper use

[cracker]

Since I'm simi laid up, I thought I'd try to use my card scrapers. I followed all the instructions I could find. I straighten the edges, then burnished for a hook.
Everything seems to work ok. I get a nice wisp of wood coming off, but I cannot seem to get a surface smooth. The hook does not seem to hold its edge very long either.
Any suggestions or ideas? Also do you scrape witht the grain or against the grain or both?

Thanks,

[rhull]

Don't look at me; I don't seem to be able to get good results with my scraper either. :(

[cabinetman]

First remove any burs on the flat sides, and remove any hook. With a mill file used longwise, generate a 90 deg edge. You may have to remove some burs from the sides from doing that. I get good results from a crisp 90 deg edge, which actually gives two working edges, and is very easy to dress.

Scrape only in the direction of the grain, and vary the holding angle until you find the "bite". That angle in conjunction with finding the correct pressure for the wood you're working will give very smooth results.

[cracker]

OK, I will keep working at it. This is really the first time I have really tried it.

Thanks