Sharpening methods

[ken cierp]

This is my current favorite method/system -- your set-up need not be so elaborate

http://dans-woodshop.blogspot.com/2009/ ... sharp.html

[Dave Bagwill]

Another system that is also worth considering is the Japanese waterstone method which is easy and extremely accurate. I use the following approach (this is a youtube link to a well known luthier, who taught me the method):

http://youtu.be/WO_M95qDdAQ

[ken cierp]

Outstanding!! -- Thank you Dave

[Woodyok]

I've read about the scary sharp system before and I do believe I would use it.
But this is small shop construction so I decided to take stock of the things I don't sharpen. Chisels... I have a complete set of carving chisels and gouges from my uncle. Before I crafted my first kit John Hall asked if I knew how use chisels, I said no, he said put them away. So I don't sharpen chisels except a 1/4" for braces and I have a small diamond stone for that. I don't use a plane except a small one with replaceable blades, so I don't sharpen planes. The only thing keep sharp are my scrapers, and that I can do. I do have a nice 1/2" piece of Marble and I think I'll give the Scary sharp system at try with my one chisel.

[Dave Bagwill]

Hi Woody - I had a hard time with chisels at first; after I learned to sharpen them I was surprised how easy and fulfilling it is to use them. I shed a little blood because, only having used dull tools, I though I would have to use the same amount of force with the sharp ones - duh. They go thru wood with ease. And chisels are real easy to sharpen.

[Tim Benware]

I use scary sharp method and hopefully after Christmas I'll be using my new Veritas honing guide to do it! BTW - this is my first post on the forum. Hello friends from other places:)

[Dave Bagwill]

Tim, great to hear from you - welcome!
Dave