Sharpening Woodcarving Chisels

Wood workers use a lot of tools to cut and shape art and utility pieces from wooden blocks and unrefined wood parts. Woodcarving is done with the help of chisels and files and saws of all sizes, and it is important that a sharp cutting edge is maintained on any cutting tools or saw. Wood chisel come in a variety and shapes and sizes. Bevel-edged cutting tools need to maintain a cutting surface that is supported by the proper angles of the cutting edge and the remaining tool dimensions. Using a sharpening stone is the best way to keep a sharp edge on woodcarving tools and with a little practice a sharpness can be maintained throughout the life of the tool.

Things You'll Need

• Wood chisel (2) combination sharpening stone Water Honing jig

Instructions

1. Soak sharpening stones in water for 10 minutes. Because the stones you have use water to create the fluid that will do the sharpening, you must prepare the stones prior to sharpening.

2. Insert the chisel into the honing jig, which will maintain the angle of the cutting spine leading to the edge. Secure it tightly into the jig once you have adjusted the jig so that the entire bevel of the chisel is level with the surface of the stone.

3. Secure the 800-grit stone on a workbench or stand so that it will remain in the same position without moving around. Make a few passes with the chisel and jig and look at the chisel. As you make more passes, the sharpening can be seen on the surface of the edge. After making enough passes so that the entire bevel surface has come in contact with the stone, move on to the 1200-grit stone.

4. Flip your stone over and make passes over the 1200-grit sharpening stone until the entire surface has come in contact with the sharpening stone. As you increase the grit with each pass, the sharpened edges will increase in the cleanliness and shine. Making sure as you move up the grit numbers, you are keeping the stone and blade moist enough so that there is enough water and grit to work evenly on the whole chisel surface. For the higher grit counts of 8000, you will need an extra stone to help create slurry which will do the sharpening on these high grit count stones.

5. Complete the sharpening of the wood bevel by creating a micro edge on the 8000-grit stone. Do this by making forward pass only movements until the front edge of the chisel has a slight angle difference than the rest of the blade. This allows for easier sharpening with regular use. Flip the chisel over and hone the back of the chisel and your tool will be as sharp as if it was brand new.

Tips & Warnings

• Using a honing jig is not necessary, but helps in maintaining the proper angle consistently. For the 8000-grit stone, you will need a Nagura stone to create the sharpening slurry.

• Working with sharp objects has the possibility of injury when used improperly. Always maintain control of your tools at all times and wear safety equipment to prevent the risk of injury.