A hand
plane is a
tool for shaping
wood. When powered by electricity, the tool may be called a
planer. Planes are used to flatten, reduce the thickness of, and impart a smooth surface to a rough piece of
lumber or timber. Planing is used to produce horizontal, vertical, or inclined flat surfaces on workpieces usually too large for shaping. Special types of planes are designed to cut
joints or
decorative mouldings.