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From Ancient Egypt to Modern Woodworking: The Fascinating History of the Jointer

Updated: Jan 17, 2023

A woodworking jointer, also known as a jointer plane or a straightening plane, is a tool that has been used by woodworkers for centuries to create straight, smooth edges on pieces of wood. The history of the woodworking jointer can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where craftsmen used a tool called a "scraper" to create straight edges on wooden beams and planks.



Example of a plane tool on a shooting board
Shooting Board

Over the centuries, the woodworking jointer has evolved and undergone numerous changes to become the tool we know today. In the 18th and 19th centuries, European woodworkers began using a tool called a "shooting board" to create straight edges on wood. This tool, which was similar to a woodworking jointer, was used in conjunction with a plane to achieve a straight edge.


In the early 20th century, the first modern woodworking jointers began to appear on the market. These tools were similar to the shooting boards of the past, but they were larger and more refined, with a longer bed and a more powerful motor.


Today, woodworking jointers are an essential tool for any woodworker, whether they are a professional or a hobbyist. They are used to create straight edges on rough lumber, to

Six (6) inch jet power jointer with cast iron top
Jet Jointer

flatten and smooth the faces of boards, and to create precise angles and joints.


Whether you're a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, a woodworking jointer is an essential tool to have in your workshop. It's a testament to the enduring usefulness and versatility of this tool that it has remained an integral part of the woodworking trade for centuries.

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