Must-Have Sharpening Techniques

If you’re using tools in your shop, you need to know how to sharpen them. It’s an old adage, but true, that dull tools are more dangerous than sharp tools. You’re likely to force a dull tool, and that leads to accidents. Your woodworking will just be easier and more pleasant when you’re working with sharp tools. We cover sharpening techniques for a broad array of tools in this class. In addition to covering a lot of tools, the class offers a variety of techniques, from hand sharpening to power sharpening, whetstones to low rpm grinders. You’re sure to find a sharpening approach here that works with your shop, your budget, and your skills. You’ll learn about different sharpening systems and how to sharpen: Router bits Bench chisels Plane irons Lathe chisels Card scrapers and cabinet scrapers Forstner bits We realize that different woodworkers place different demands on their tools and have different setups in their shops. As a result, we show you a variety of approaches to sharpening, including: Whetstones, including silicone carbide, water stones, and diamond stones Sharpening on a glass plate Freehand sharpening The use of sharpening jigs Low rpm grinder WorkSharp Rotary tools On top of the sharpening techniques, we provide you with great tips and tricks to make your sharpening easier, such as: How to determine when a tool is dull Cleaning your cutting tools, which can help you avoid sharpening How to prevent whetstones from clogging With the broad array of tips, tricks and techniques offered in this class, you’re sure to be able to keep the cutting edges in your shop at their best.