Hey all, newb here. I’m building my first workshop in my basement with hand tools only (might add power tools later) and looking for some advice.
I’m still undecided on a sharpening setup, so wondering what other people like. How fussy are water stones, and how do you manage keeping them true? Do you have any cool tricks or things you want to show off?
I’ve settled on water stones, at least for the moment: 1000, 4000, and 8000 grit. I use a Veritas Mk. 2 sharpening jig. I also have a slow-speed grinder for major reshaping.
I true the stones on a cinder block, but I don’t have to do it very often.
I suggest you take a look at Christopher Schwarz’s ‘Sharpen This’ series from his blog:
https://blog.lostartpress.com/2017/07/11/sharpen-this-part-2-hear-no-evil/
https://blog.lostartpress.com/2017/07/14/sharpen-this-part-3-what-the-is-sharp/
https://blog.lostartpress.com/2017/07/21/sharpen-this-part-4-very-small-rocks/
https://blog.lostartpress.com/2017/07/22/usharpen-this-part-5-the-myth-of-super-sharpness/
https://blog.lostartpress.com/2017/07/23/sharpen-this-part-6-the-bevel-the-devil/
https://blog.lostartpress.com/2017/07/28/sharpen-this-part-7-the-burr-in-the-saddle/
https://blog.lostartpress.com/2017/07/29/sharpen-this-part-8-polish-get-back-to-work/
I’ll take a look at those blogs. I read The Essential Woodworker from Lost Art, so I have a good degree of trust in their stuff