I usually joint boards on my 6" power jointer, but there are times when a board is wider than 6", and I really hate to rip it to width. I'm considering upgrading to an 8" jointer, but in the meantime I figured it would be a good opportunity to develop some hand tool skills.
So, not having done extensive hand planing, I'm looking for any tips, tutorials, videos, books, etc. that might help. Keep in mind that the idea is to just get 1 side of the board flat enough to run through my power planer.
I don't have a jointer plane, but I currently have a #5&1/4 bench plane (12" long). I'm not sure how large a board it would be practical to use this to joint with, but I'd appreciate any opinions on the matter. I also have 12, 24 and 48" straight edges.