This is especially important on rough and dirty boards, as it saves the cutting edge, and in fine work, as it saves the work.

If the plane tear the wood instead of cutting it smooth, as it should, it is because the planing is "against the grain".

This can often be avoided by noticing the direction of the grain before beginning to plane.

But even if it be not noted beforehand, a stroke or two will show the roughness.

In such a case, it is necessary simply to turn the wood around.
[Illustration: Fig.106.Planing an Edge.] The accuracy of the work as it progresses should frequently be tested, and the eye should constantly be trained so that it can more and more be depended upon to detect inaccuracy, Fig.107.As each surface is trued, it should be carefully smoothed with the cutter set to cut fine shavings.
[Illustration: Fig.107.Sighting an Edge.] In planing a very cross-grained piece of wood, there are several methods to use for securing a smooth surface.