Check out my first instructional video.  This one goes over the relatively simple process of rib planing.  Visit the page here for a summary and tips.

Tools:

• Block plane (low angle or standard)
  • High angle blade (50 degree)
• Clamp
• Flat surface for planing
• Thicknessing gauge
• Finely hooked scraper or scraper plane
• Optional: toothed plane blade for faster wood removal during inital thicknessing

Steps:

1. Select the inside and outside of the ribs
2. Plane the outside first, focusing on a smooth finish
3. Flip and finish thicknessing
4. Use the scraper or scraper plane to remove any plane marks from the outside surface

Tips:

• Test the cutting direction to determine if one direction is more sensitive to tear out than the other
• Use the thicknessing gauge to determine the higher spots on the rib testing each edge, the middle and along the length, mark these with a pencil and concentrate planing on these locations
• To prevent tear-out
  • A high angle blade
  • Cut slowing taking minimal wood per pass
  • Ensure a razor sharp blade