How to use a Skew Chisel?

[j123]

How do you use a skew chisel?

I bought a set of flexcut palms tools and it came with FR308, a 5/16" skew chisel. I put it into the wood and off it goes on a diaganol. Can someone please provide guidance and maybe a picture of what it is supposed to do?

Thank you

[Paul_Guraedy]

I'm not sure how exactly to describe the way I use the skew (usually a hooked skew). I think it is best described as a kind of sliding or diagonal cut where the leading edge of the blade (pointed part) starts the slice and the following edge finishes as the tool moves along the part I want to remove. Whereas a flat gouge is pushed forward with the entire cutting edge going at the same pace and cutting along a straight line. it would certainly be a lot easier to show you; but, I don't have a method for video.

[TreeWizard]

I have a Flexcut set with the skew and I use it for smoothing the surface of the carving to take out any tool marks left. I find the skew does a better job than I can do with the #1.

[Thomp]

i use a skew against a stop cut where i cant use a knife like cleaning up backround in a relief carving, where the handle of the knife wont allow flat cuts, chasing edge details of the transition of the backround to raised part of the carving..

other than that its a tool rack place holder...

[Just Carving]

Rick-in-seattle gave the best description and explantion about the skew chisel I've seen. So, here are some links to his posts in the thread where he posted his answers to the question you've asked:

Play with your Tool

Play with your Tool

Hope this helps.

Bob

[Ed Redwine]

I find the skew especially helpful when trying to work out a cut with a sharp angle. The angle of the skew allows it to be "slid" into the angle cut to clean it up and remove the fuzzies. I agree with Paul that it is best used in a sliding cutting motion.
ED

[j123]

Thanks all this was helpful. I thought the skew was to be used for decorative work like a gouge but apparently its mostly for stop cuts. So just to be clear, the skew is held like a knife (vertically).

Is the longer point on top or on the bottom?

If anyone has a picture, that would really help

[Just Carving]

I usually hold the skew just like a gouge--like I would hold a pot handle--and extend my index finger along the shank for added control. You don't need to apply a lot of force. If the blade is sharp, it will do the work for you. The longer point is on the same side as my index finger--the top.

Bob

[chuckbolton]

you are going to find it works-- you just have to get it action and use it. when i use a skew-- i the point leads-- if that helps-- i generally use it on the bottom or down side- get the tool out and use it-- you will figure out how it works best for you.