A mathematical model for accurate relief grinding of gear hob cutters along radial directions is presented based on the analysis of grinding geometry. Both the design and manufacturing models of gear hob cutters are carefully derived and presented. By employing the plane envelope theory, the reference contour of the grinding wheel is determined in order to attain the design tool profile precisely. The tooth profile error model after regrinding is also given to confirm the grinding parameters. The model provides accurate solutions for both the tool profile and the sectional contour of the grinding wheel. It is simple and straightforward and can be used to produce highprecision hob cutters systematically. Two numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The model computing results indicate that the proposed method is practical, precise and reliable. The method provides valuable reference for the design and machining of hob cutters.