How to Reshape a Skew Chisel

Reshape a skew chisel to original specifications.

Skew chisels are tools used by woodworkers to smooth and carve wood on a lathe. Two distinct angles should be maintained on a skew chisel: 70 degrees is the horizontal angle across the top of the chisel, and 25 degrees should be maintained for the cutting edge of the chisel. If you have neglected the skew chisel angle or it has been previously sharpened at the wrong angle, you will need to reshape it to the original specifications.

Things You'll Need

• Protractor
• Grinding wheel

Instructions

1. Set the protractor angle to 70 degrees. Place it on the end of the chisel. The steel arm of the protractor should be flush with the end of the chisel.

2. Turn on the grinder. Hold the chisel by the wooden handle and gently ease the end of the chisel into the wheel if the angle did not measure exactly 70 degrees. As the chisel begins to throw sparks, angle it in the direction needed a tiny bit at a time.

3. Pull the chisel back, check it with the protractor and apply it to the wheel again if the angle isn't right. Continue altering the angle until it measures 70 degrees across the top.

4. Set the protractor angle at 25 degrees. Place it on the end of the chisel. The cutting edge of the chisel should tuck up inside the crotch of the protractor. Check both sides of the knife-like edge.

5. Hold the chisel by the wooden handle. Tilt it down at an approximate 25 degree angle and ease it into the grinding wheel. Use the existing angle for a guide. Try to lay the existing angle flat against the wheel as you grind the angle back to 25 degrees. Do both sides of the chisel.

6. Check the angles on both sides of the chisel with the protractor. If they do not register 25 degrees, continue grinding them a tiny bit at a time, and checking them until the beveled cutting edges register at 25 degrees.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a fine grit wheel for best results.

• Always wear safety glasses when grinding chisels.