In order to properly make snow cones, shaved ice treats and Hawaiian ice desserts in hot weather, mechanized ice shavers need to be used. These machines can cut hundreds of thousands of ice flakes off of one chunk of ice within a matter of minutes. The fine texture of these flakes allows them to be collected into a cup and flavored with any number of sweet juices, syrups and toppings.

The first ice shavers were probably made by hand tools like wood planes and sharp slices of obsidian or other rock. Individuals could purchase professionally made hand shavers by the late 1800s. In 1934, the first motorized block shaver was invented and introduced to the public by New Orleans inventor Ernest Hansen.

The classic ice shavers work very much like a deli meat slicer. Others use rotating blades to quickly cut the ice into tiny pieces. Most shavers are designed with ice-catching receptacles that can house, store and refrigerate unused ice until a customer is ready to order.

Ice Shavers for Home and Party Use

Ice-making machines are very easy to operate and can be rented for parties, birthdays, fundraisers, school dances and to satisfy anyone's urge for a simple iced treat. They are usually quite light and can be placed on any table or countertop. Plus, any number of toppings can be purchased and experimented with, from frozen or fresh fruit chunks to chocolate syrup, iced coffee, milk, vanilla extract, cherries, or pre-manufactured flavored liquids.