sharpening

Sharpening is the process of removing material from a blade or tool edge to restore a keen cutting surface. A sharp edge reduces the force required to cut and improves control, precision, and safety. Sharpening can involve removing metal to create a new edge, or realigning microscopic damaged protrusions through honing.

Tools and abrasives include sharpening stones (water stones, oil stones, ceramic, or diamond), grinder wheels, and handheld diamond rods. Abrasives vary in grit from coarse (to repair damaged edges or reshape angles) to fine (to refine and polish). Finishing methods may involve strops, leather, or tapes to polish the edge and remove burrs. Some tools are sharpened with guides or jigs to maintain a consistent bevel.

Approaches: sharpening versus honing. Sharpening removes material to form a new edge; honing realigns the micro-bevel to reduce wear between sharpenings. Different tools require different edge angles. Knives typically use 15–20 degrees per side; chisels and plane blades are steeper; scissors and garden tools have their own ranges.

Basic process: secure the tool, choose an appropriate angle, lubricate the stone if using water or oil, and make a series of evenly spaced strokes along the edge, progressing from coarse to fine grit. Periodically check for a uniform bevel and a light burr along the edge, then deburr and, if desired, finish with a strop or leather edge.

Safety and maintenance: avoid overheating by cooling the edge, keep hands clear of the stone and edge, and secure the workpiece. Regular maintenance includes cleaning stones, lubricating, and replacing worn abrasives to maintain consistent results.