Spongebob Hand Plane Restoration Challenge

Every now and then, a tool shows up that makes you stop and ask, “Should I restore this, or just salute it and toss it back in the ocean?”

This little gem, quickly nicknamed the “Spongebob Plane,” was found on eBay after being pulled from the sea. Covered in heavy corrosion, barnacle-like buildup, and all sorts of mystery grime, it may be the crustiest hand plane I have ever come across. But beneath all that, there is still something worth saving, especially in the rosewood tote and knob.

In this video, I open the box, take a good look at what I am up against, and map out a plan to bring the woodwork back to life. It will take a careful touch, a few tricks, and some determination, but if there is any life left in that rosewood, I am going to find it.

When I first unboxed this salt-soaked, rust-covered plane, I wasn’t sure what I’d find underneath. The metal was a mess, the wood was barely recognizable, and I figured at best, we might salvage a few parts. But after hours of careful cleaning, shaping, and restoring, the results surprised even me.

The rosewood came back from the deep, literally, in a way that even I didn’t think was possible. The tote and knob are solid once again, smooth to the touch, and full of character. What started as a joke of a project turned into one of the most satisfying restorations I’ve done.

If you saw how it started, you’ll want to see how it finished. Head over to the video and take a look.