"rich" wrote in message
ps.com...
I'm building a Halltree and the plans call for curved arms, approx
2" x 4" x 15" in walnut. I cut them on a band saw to the pattern, and
now have to make them smooth and pretty. On the front supports, I
used a drum sander in the drill press to rough them to size, then a
half round file, eventually sand paper. Seems like a lot of work!

What is a good way to smooth these puppies, or similar projects, in
the future? I have the usual assortment of hand tools, but all seem
to work with flat/straight surfaces. What did people use before power
tools??? And making two pieces the same shape???

Any ideas will be appreciated!

Regards,
Rich.....

I use a good rasp. It is a Nicholson pattern makers rasp. It is fast and
leaves a smoother surface than cheaper tools. I have spoke shaves and card
scrapers I would use as well.