jointing/planing redwood with knots

[steve68]

We are new at using this tool. Were told not to plane boards with knots (!) as it would ruin blades. Is this something we should worry about with soft redwood? Don't want to ruin our new blades on first pass. thx

[LCHIEN]

knots are often hard, resinous and or loose.
hard will damage blade, resinous can mess up the blades and loose can come out and jam.

I would avoid large knots like I described, smaller knots tight and not loose, dry and mot too hard would be OK. Depends how conservative you want to be.

I think generally redwood is not used for fine furniture, people take advantage of its great weather, water and rot and insect resistance to make outdoor furniture and decks... Generally not planed for fine hardwood finishes...??? Some one correct me if i'm wrong.

[Russianwolf]

knots are often hard, resinous and or loose.
hard will damage blade, resinous can mess up the blades and loose can come out and jam.

I would avoid large knots like I described, smaller knots tight and not loose, dry and mot too hard would be OK. Depends how conservative you want to be.

I think generally redwood is not used for fine furniture, people take advantage of its great weather, water and rot and insect resistance to make outdoor furniture and decks... Generally not planed for fine hardwood finishes...??? Some one correct me if i'm wrong.

You're wrong.

There is a lot of Large redwood pieces out there with outstanding figure (curl, burls and lace) that are often used for the Tops on Executive Desks, Coffee Tables, and the like. But I will say, that most of this wood if from the stump/root and won't have knots.

http://cgi.ebay.com/LARGE-RARE-REDWO...QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.com/CURLY-REDWOOD-BU...QQcmdZViewItem

My advise on knots, is check it first. Tight knots can be planed, loose one can't. Another concern is the grain around the knot can change dramatically, so you may get more tearout around the knot if planed. Best bet on it is a drum sander if you have the option.