How to sharpen scissors and cutlery

The basic whetting, or sharpening, equipment for scissors and shears is an aluminum oxide bench stone, which is generally available at hardware stores. Brown in color, it is coarse on one side and fine on the other. A new stone should be soaked overnight in a pan of light machine oil. Store the stone in a closed box when not using it; otherwise, it may clog with dust and become useless. Oil it lightly before each use.

Sharpening your scissors and cutlery is an essential task for ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your tools. A dull blade can not only make the cutting process more difficult but can also be dangerous, as it requires more force to make the same cut. In this guide, we will cover the steps and techniques necessary to sharpen your scissors and cutlery effectively and efficiently.

What You Will Need

Before beginning the sharpening process, you will need to gather a few supplies. You will need:

• A sharpening stone or honing steel
• A lubricant (oil or water)
• A cloth or towel to clean the blades
• A steady surface to work on

Preparing Your Scissors and Cutlery

1. Clean the blades: Before sharpening your scissors or cutlery, it is essential to clean the blades to remove any dirt or debris. Wipe the blades with a cloth or towel to remove any particles.
2. Lubricate the sharpening stone or honing steel: To avoid damaging the blades, it is necessary to lubricate the sharpening stone or honing steel with either oil or water. This will help the blades glide smoothly along the surface and prevent any unnecessary wear and tear.

Sharpening Your Scissors

1. Hold the sharpening stone or honing steel securely: Hold the sharpening stone or honing steel securely in one hand, with the other hand holding the scissors by the handle.
2. Place the blade on the sharpening stone or honing steel: Place the blade of the scissors on the sharpening stone or honing steel at a 20-degree angle.
3. Sharpen one side of the blade: Run the blade along the sharpening stone or honing steel, starting at the tip and working towards the handle. Repeat this process several times, applying moderate pressure to the blade.
4. Flip the scissors and repeat the process: Flip the scissors over and repeat the process on the other side of the blade.
5. Test the sharpness: Test the sharpness of the scissors by cutting through a piece of paper. If the scissors are still dull, repeat the process until they are sharp.

Sharpening Your Cutlery

1. Hold the sharpening stone or honing steel securely: Hold the sharpening stone or honing steel securely in one hand, with the other hand holding the cutlery by the handle.
2. Place the blade on the sharpening stone or honing steel: Place the blade of the cutlery on the sharpening stone or honing steel at a 20-degree angle.
3. Sharpen one side of the blade: Run the blade along the sharpening stone or honing steel, starting at the tip and working towards the handle. Repeat this process several times, applying moderate pressure to the blade.
4. Flip the cutlery and repeat the process: Flip the cutlery over and repeat the process on the other side of the blade.
5. Test the sharpness: Test the sharpness of the cutlery by cutting through a piece of paper. If the cutlery is still dull, repeat the process until it is sharp.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to sharpen scissors?

The best way to sharpen scissors is to use a sharpening stone or honing steel. This method is effective and efficient in maintaining the sharpness of your scissors.

How often should I sharpen my scissors and cutlery?

The frequency at which you sharpen your scissors and cutlery will depend on how often you use them. Generally, it is recommended to sharpen your tools once or twice a year to maintain their efficiency and longevity.

Can I use a sharpening stone or honing steel to sharpen any type of scissors and cutlery?

Yes, a sharpening stone or honing steel can be used to sharpen any type of scissors and cutlery. However, it is important to note that different types of tools may require different sharpening techniques.

What is the difference between a sharpening stone and honing steel?

A sharpening stone is a block of abrasive material used to sharpen and maintain the edge of a blade. A honing steel is a rod made of steel that is used to realign the edge of a blade without removing any material.

Can I sharpen my scissors and cutlery without a sharpening stone or honing steel?

Yes, there are other methods of sharpening scissors and cutlery, such as using a whetstone or sandpaper. However, a sharpening stone or honing steel is recommended as they are the most effective and efficient methods.

Conclusion

Sharpening your scissors and cutlery is an important task that should be performed regularly to maintain efficiency and longevity. By following these steps and techniques, you will be able to sharpen your tools effectively and efficiently. Remember to always clean the blades before sharpening and to lubricate the sharpening stone or honing steel to avoid damaging