Thread: Traditional Tools Group sharpening course - August 18

I think that you should go. Consider yourself well-off if you don't learn anything new.
Be aware that there are half a dozen different sharpening methods/techniques, from free-hand to power, that get the job done. Most importantly, you have to pick one and become competent with it. If things go wrong ask your questions of that particular technique.
Might be varios sandpapers, maybe water stones, maybe a TomZ or a Tormek machine.
You have to start somewhere and stick with it as you figure out the variables.

When I started wood carving seriously, I was taught free-hand sharpening. I know for a fact that I've improved over the years to tuning up tools for other people. While I'm very fond of waterstones, "crooked" knives require fine W&D sandpapers both on the flat and wrapped around metal tubing pieces. I can't find a better way to get it done.

The total included bevel angle at the tool edge sort of depends upon the work to be done.
Here's a bit of a list from my shop bench:
Stanley/Bailey #5 plane = 30 degrees
Samona spoke shaves = 28 degrees
Narex skews = 25 degrees
All my western/european style carving gouges & skews = 20 degrees
Fine detail carving knives = 12 degrees
All 9 of my "crooked" carving knives = 12-15 degrees

Back up to the Woodcarving Forum, search for a long thread called "Star's Sharpening Journey." I put what I know and do in there. Even so, my methods for the crooked knives in particular have changed.

Originally Posted by I_wanna_Shed

Hello,

As someone who has always used power tools, I'm keen to get into the hand tool side of my hobby. ie: planes and chisels.

I have a few planes that have been handed down to me, and a few chisels that cost no more than $15 for five. I would love to get a nice set of chisels and learn to use them properly, but what puts me off is that I don't have a clue on how to sharpen or maintain them correctly.

I see the Traditional Tools Group has a sharpening lesson on August 18. Has anyone been to this? What does it over? Is it suitable for someone who only knows what side of the plane goes face down?


Nathan.

The Workshop is built around instruction in bite sized pieces, going through all steps in getting a good edge, and keeping it. You work on your tools that you bring with you - and you leave with skills (this is very much hands-on) and sharp edges (with flat backs). Sharpening materials are available for use, although best if you bring stones etc that you have and learn how to use them. Sharpening materials are also available to buy.

Jim Davey is very knowledgeable and helpful, and far more patient than me. There is always a good friendly group at these workshops - and incredible value (instructors do this to help others, not get paid).

Thanks for the replies.

I'll have a read through your info later tonight Robson Valley. It also slipped my mind that there are dozens of different ways to sharpen. At the moment, I don't have a clue. You grind your chisels along a cement path don't you, after you've opened a tin of paint with them? (Okay, okay, I'm not THAT bad!).

Thanks Heavansabove - thought you may reply! Glad I can buy some stuff there. It will be my birthday so there'll be an excuse! Would my $15 chisels be fine to bring along? I have an older Record plane that dad gave me that I can bring.

Thanks,
Nathan.

By all means take all your tools, price is irrelevant.

I'd like to post more things about my sharpening process but I'll wait a few weeks in here.
You won't have questions to ask until you've been confronted by the process.
Most of what I could say, I have said in Star's thread.

As there are several different techniques/materials to select from, you can imagine that there are a few dogmatic disciples ready to expound on why their process is the best on Earth.
I'll admit that I came close but eventually found no choice but to use different methods with different carving tools.

Alas, it seems my wife has been organising something for my birthday, meaning I can't get to this workshop

I'll definitely keep my eyes on the TTG website to see when the next one is on, and do heaps of reading in the meantime.

Thanks again for the info guys.

Nathan.

Nathan: Tonight in the dark I will have the dogs sing a chorus of regret for you.
I am the alpha male, I am the lead singer and we will bark for you.
They are Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, the 4x4 of the dog world.
Muddy can put his chin on the table (when I'm not looking),
Tia is 2" shorter but an absolute maniac swimmer.

That is truely unfortunate. Not even as a birthday pressie, huh?

AAAHHHHRROOOOOOOOOOOOOO