I have Stanley smooth plane I'm trying to repair. I don't know much about planing yet.
The sole is roughly ground, and has a few small rust spots. I can see light shining through in a few spots if I hold a straightedge against it. I would like to true it.
I was told I could tape a sheet of waterproof sandpaper to a plate of tempered glass and sand the sole down using water as a luricant and a rinse. I tried this method, starting with 400 grit paper and taping it as flat to the glass as I could. After a few minutes I discovered that the sole was being polished shiny, but mostly in areas at the nose and the sides at the rear. It was as if the paper was curling up or the plane was rocking as I rubbed it. Not wanting to round off the corners of my plane, I stopped immediately.
What's the best way for me to continue? Is there a better or easier way for me to true this plane at home? Is there a better way to stick the sandpaper to the plate of glass? Is it just a matter of technique? What would be the best paper grit size to start with?
Thanks guys, Adam