Sharpening

  • 16 Tips for Sharpening

    by American Woodworker Editors     Thursday, June 24, 2010
    Understanding the “Why” is just as important as the “How”. By Tom Caspar Hand tools are a pleasure to use–if they're sharp. Once you have a sharp tool in your hands, you'll begin to realize why some woodworkers are...
  • Treat Sharpening Stone Water

    by American Woodworker Editors     Tuesday, August 18, 2009
    by Tim Johnson Waterstones have always been my preferred method to produce a razor-sharp edge. I store them in a plastic tub filled with water, so they’re always ready to go. In warm weather, the tub and stones can become rather slimy. To prevent...
  • Instant Wheel-Dresser Support

    by AW-Editor     Thursday, January 29, 2009
    I use my grinder almost exclusively for beveling my chisels, so I like to keep the tool rest set to produce the 25-degree bevel I prefer. Having to reset the angle after using my diamond wheel dresser to clean and flatten the wheel bothered me until I...
  • Simple Sharpening Jig

    by AW-Editor     Monday, July 7, 2008
    I’ve tried several different shop-made jigs for sharpening my jointer and planer knives but this one has proved the simplest to use and make. When making this sharpening jig it’s important to make the slots at the correct angle so the bevels...