Making a wooden shoehorn with a smooth finish involves several steps, from choosing the right type of wood to applying a smooth finish that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Below is a step-by-step guide to crafting your own wooden shoehorn:
Materials Needed:
- A hardwood piece (maple, oak, cherry, or walnut are good choices)
- Saw (table saw, band saw, or hand saw)
- Sandpaper (medium to fine grit)
- Wood glue (optional for joining pieces)
- Clamps (if using glue)
- Wood finish (oil, polyurethane, or wax)
- Small carving tools or a rasp (optional, depending on the design)
Step 1: Select and Prepare the Wood
Choose a hardwood with a straight grain, which will be easier to carve and sand smooth. A softwood like pine might work, but it is more prone to dents and scratches, so hardwoods are preferable for durability.
Start with a wooden board that is at least 18 inches long and 2-3 inches wide, depending on the desired size of the shoehorn. The thickness should be around 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch, which is strong enough for the task but still flexible.
Step 2: Plan and Design Your Shoe Horn
Sketch out the shape of your shoehorn. The design typically has a curved shape, with one end tapered and the other wider to fit comfortably behind the heel of your shoes.
- The wide end is where you will insert your foot, and the tapered end should be used to slide behind the heel and gently guide your foot into the shoe.
- If you prefer, you can carve some rounded edges on the sides for a more ergonomic feel.
Step 3: Cut the Wood to Shape
Using a saw, cut out the shape of the shoehorn based on your design. Take care to follow the lines you’ve drawn as accurately as possible.
If you want a curved or slightly beveled edge, you can use a jigsaw or band saw to make the cuts. Alternatively, use a coping saw for more intricate cuts. Once the basic shape is cut out, use a rasp or small carving tool to refine the edges and smooth out any rough areas.
Step 4: Sand the Wooden Shoehorn
The most crucial step to achieving a smooth finish is proper sanding. Start with medium-grit sandpaper (around 120-grit) to remove any saw marks and rough areas. Then progress through finer grits, such as 220-grit and finally 320-grit, for a very smooth surface. Sand in the direction of the grain to avoid scratches that run across the wood’s texture.
If the shoehorn has any curved areas, use a sanding block or wrap sandpaper around a small piece of dowel or pipe to make it easier to reach curved edges. For edges that need to be rounded, use a fine file or sandpaper to give them a smooth, comfortable feel.
Step 5: Apply a Wood Finish
Once you are satisfied with the smoothness of the surface, it’s time to apply a finish. Finishing the wood will protect it from moisture and wear and give it a polished, professional look. You can choose from several options:
Tung oil or linseed oil: These oils will penetrate the wood and offer a natural, warm finish. Apply a thin layer with a soft cloth, and allow it to soak in for about 15-30 minutes before wiping off the excess. Let it dry for 24 hours and apply additional coats as necessary.
Polyurethane: For a durable, high-gloss finish, polyurethane is a great option. Apply a thin, even coat with a brush or cloth, and let it dry completely. Lightly sand between coats with fine-grit sandpaper to achieve an even finish.
Wax: If you want a matte or satin finish, applying a coat of furniture wax can enhance the wood’s natural beauty and smoothness. Rub the wax in circular motions and let it dry before buffing it out with a soft cloth.
Step 6: Final Sanding and Polishing
After applying the finish, lightly sand the surface with 320-grit sandpaper to ensure the finish is smooth and even. Once you’re satisfied with the look and feel, buff the shoehorn using a clean cloth to achieve a polished appearance.
Step 7: Inspect and Adjust
Give your shoehorn a final inspection to ensure that there are no rough spots or uneven areas. You can further refine the finish if necessary, using a very fine sandpaper (around 400 grit) and a final coat of wax or oil to enhance the sheen.
Tips for Success:
- Take your time during sanding to get a flawless finish; the smoother the surface, the more professional the shoehorn will look.
- If you want a decorative element, you can add a design or engraving to the wood, but make sure it doesn’t interfere with the functionality of the shoehorn.
- For added strength and comfort, consider rounding the edges of the shoehorn so they don’t dig into your hand while you use it.
A wooden shoehorn is a simple yet satisfying project that offers both functionality and elegance. Once you’ve made your shoehorn, you’ll appreciate the effort you put into crafting a smooth, polished, and durable piece that will last for years.
For more woodworking inspiration and detailed tutorials, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.