What is hand hewing?

Hand hewing is the traditional method of shaping wooden beams and planks with a hand-held ax. In this process, the woodworker uses a broad ax to split and shape large wooden beams into desired sizes and shapes. The process requires high levels of skill, strength, and patience, as it involves the careful removal of wood using precise and calculated swings of the ax.

Hand hewing is a time-consuming process that is seldom used in modern woodworking. However, it was the primary method of shaping lumber before the modern machinery became available. The look and feel of hand-hewn wooden beams and planks are completely different from that of machine-cut lumber. The unique textured surface and soft edges give the wood a beautiful rustic look and feel that is unmatched by any other method.

Today, hand hewing is usually reserved for the restoration of historic buildings, cabins, and traditional woodcrafts. Although it can take more time and effort to complete than modern methods, hand hewing allows craftspeople to create custom wooden pieces of unmatched quality and beauty.