I am a retired butcher, sharp knives are our #1 most important tool, we all learn how to sharpen. She is 100% correct. Spend the time to learn this skill, there are no shortcuts that work. Using those mechanical devices , kind of work but your knife will not stay sharp.
Brilliant!!! Thankyou so much for posting this Leah...my hubby just loved it...simplicity in motion...100% for your presentation and the end results = sharp tools and no more cursing. Win win for me and for him.
Thank you, Leah. That was one of the best explanations of the different sharpening options - and methods - I have seen. You kept it simple, and instructive.
You're the best. If nothing else you're authentic. I can think of no greater compliment. It's what I value most. Thank you for what you continually bring.
OK, I don't know how you keep popping up in my life but every time, you seem to be the best source for beginner knowledge. Because of you, I've been able to fix up my house (including installing new toilets) and now I'm about to learn how to sharpen my hobby tools and knives. I don't believe in fate or anything like that but boy is it a nice coincidence to keep finding your videos!
the only negative thing I have to say os, when you sharpen a knife, never pull the sharp edge toward you. just switch hands end repeat. That being said, Leah is my favorite RUclipsr. I did construction for 4 years end painting end finished work for 5. end I still learn new end very helpful things from her. thank you Leah for all you do
I've always (since 1967) used oil stones for sharpening knives and other tools . After watching this video I believe I'll try a diamond stone - thanks for the great information!
Diamond stones are good for taking chips out of knifes/chisels, I use a oil stone for general sharpening, then i strop, gets it shave sharp. Diamond stones leave very coarse scratches.
Best tutorial out there. I've followed your routine and I've now got a very sharp chisel. It's a joy to use because suddenly carving through wood is effortless. I actually love the sharpening process too - it's almost meditative, and it has positive results. I don't use an angle guide either because it is not too hard to get a feel for the angle and keep it aligned. Thanks so much for sharing, Leah. You rock.
Found ur video informative n helpfu. Watched many videos on sharpening knives n tools n found yours the easiest to understand n apply. Kudos to you. Could u show a video on sharpening a hand sickle with its curved blade. Thanks
You made this video 6 years ago, but it is what I needed today. I love your channel and look forward to every video you make. I have lived by the mantra "if someone else did it, I should be able to as well" for quite awhile. Thank you for all you do. BTW, I loved you on your recent television docuseries on restoring antiques and treasures.
One of the best teachers on youtube! Thank you so much for all the wonderful videos! You are a master of your craft and a master teacher for sure. Thanks again!
It's people like you who are gonna help my generation learn things like this unlike old men who just run around complaining, these kids don't know sh!t blah blah. And if they try and teach one of us they give up within 20 min or spend the whole time talking about how back in their day, they didn't make mistakes.
justin hooten I have never done house work or had help with it. Leah really makes me feel confident. I don't even need to do most of these things right now but I'm watching so many videos. You're right. This generation needs these videos and the positive attitude that comes with them. It's great
justin, in our (old men) defense you should try explaining something to a twit who thinks he already knows everything. It's beyond frustrating. About the third time I'm interrupted so my "pupil" can tell me how THEY do it I'm finished. If you already know everything don't ask. And if you DON'T, LISTEN to what is relayed to you. I'm more than happy to share my knowledge and experience. I draw the line however at little twits who bitch about everything and everybody.
Tom Swinburn trying to teach your kids anything DIY when theyre just glued to a smart phone. Soon as something needs fixing they’re using that phone to ring you to ask you to do it... No is my answer, but I will show YOU how to fix it 😉
Leah, I really appreciate this video and your ability to teach skills that are timeless. You know Leah, I believe that are skilled artisans everywhere, yet the ability to help/show/teach others is a gift that is rare. You have this gift. I for one, thank you for sharing your knowledge and gift with us. I hope that you are well, strong and able to keep teaching for years to come. Than you again.
Hi Leah, I'm a new subscriber. Just finished sharpening my kitchen knife with a wet stone for the first time and it now slices through a carrot effortlessly. Your video convinced me that I can do it! Thank you for your instructional videos. You are a great and engaging teacher.
I liked the sharpening tutorial and your explanation of the different stones. Even better it didn't involve any elaborate equipment or fancy technique. I was shown how to sharpen knives by a guy who worked in an abattoir, slaughtering cattle and boning and filleting meat. He taught me to use an oil stone with soap and water. Basically you wet the stone and rub over it with a bar of soap then start sharpening. Every so often you wipe the stone off with a wet rag and apply more soap and water. It keeps the stone clean and gets a very sharp edge very quickly. So sharp I can shave with it.
Sharpening is making a new edge on the blade - honing is realigning the existing edge... For best results though, use a leather strop after sharpening. Old school
It was called a razor strap. It was also the disciplinary tool of choice where a belt wasn't handy. It worked exceedingly well at sharpening and honing my honesty skills.
InsideOfMyOwnMind My Dad is a Carpenter who wore a belt and I too was well acquainted with it. Mom was the one putting up with us all day so she was the one to watch out for.I use to run from it so she’d grab my arm and try to land it on the butt that was spinning her around and lurching forward as the belt was coming at it She eventually switched to “Mothers little helper” we all liked that much better
Leah, I started using a new device called the Work Sharp and it has the day diamond surface as well as ceramic and even leather on it for stropping. The best part is it has ramps on either side of the diamond surface that has the angles built in. All you have to do is place the knife or tool on the ramp and then carry it over to the surface and the angle is transferred very easily and I think it's great for beginners as well as old pros and it's only like $35 on Amazon
He's probably talking about the Work Sharp guided sharpening system (WSGSS-BX). There are tons of RUclips videos about that system. Personally I use a Lansky Deluxe kit for my pocket knives.
Leah, your videos are always great! Thank you for another. That said, I tired of using stones as it became a tiedius project that got old. I'm 64 now and discovered the Worksharp knife sharpener. And that is my new go to method. Fast, easy, and super sharp! I'd like to get your thoughts on it vs the stone. Thanks again
Great demonstration. Yes, simple is better. Sharpening can be kinda fun, too. I found an old hatchet in my barn, probably close to a century old. The edge on the blade was totally dull, it would have been impossible to cut your finger by running it up and down. I began to work on that edge for ten minutes or so every time I went out to the barn, first with a file and then with a Lansky round oilstone. It took a heck of a long time, but that edge finally came along. Now it’s really keen and I use it to split kindling for the wood stove. Sharpening tools by hand can be kind of meditative, I highly recommend it. Thanks for sharing your experience, Leah!
that wud depend on the depth of the knife blade. a 20° angle is one with a right triangle where the shortest leg of the triangle ≈ 0.4 x the longer leg (and the knife blade is the longest side, which is the hypotenuse of the triangle). A 4/10 ratio of the legs of a right triangle is just fine for rough approximations like this. A 4/10 ratio yields a 21.8° angle which is very sufficient too. (the math is: tangent of 22° ≈ 0.4.)
with two quarters laid on the sharpening stone, each quarter is 1.75 mm (.069"), so that's 3.5 mm high (0.138"). a blade that makes a 20° angle to that wud be 10.2mm from the stone to the quarters, which is ≈ 0.4". that is a blade that's does not have much depth! (the math is: 3.5mm / sin(20°) ≈ 10.2mm, or 0.138" / sin(20°) ≈ 0.40". in all honesty, i think a person wud be doing better to guestimate the angle between the knife & the stone than to measure 0.4" up the knife blade from the stone to the top of the quarters. 🤷 But what do i know? Only enuf trigonometry to calculate the triangle dimensions. 😛 Now that u all have the dimensions, you kan do what is easiest for you. 😋 To each zher own. (To each his own./To each her own.)
Leah, you're a great teacher with excellent taste in knives. I used to sell high end housewares, so I recognized your Wustoff knife right away. In my opinion, at the present time, they are the best around. I love the fact that they are so well balanced. Thanks for showing me the right way to sharpen them.
I know this is an older video, but have to comment. I've always taken my kitchen knives to a pro to get them sharpened. I keep reminding him that I'm lefthanded, but he always looks at me like I'm crazy. I truly believe that there's a lefthanded & righthanded edge to a knife. After watching this video, I can sharpen my own knives. And I'll bet I get a better cutting edge, too!
When you sharpen your knifes the way Leah shows you, you'll get an even edge on both sides of the blade. Then your knifes won't be left- or right handed. Also, I don't believe in left- or right handed knifes. Only in sharp knifes and dull knifes. Try to avoid the dull ones and you'll be just fine...
You’re not wrong at all but if, like most kitchen knives, you have even, dual-bevelled knives just sharpening them evenly will make them ambidextrous again. However, there are many single or uneven bevel knives - most quality sushi knives or filleting knives are single bevel and so they are definitely left or right handed knives.
Leah! I Love your Bubbly attitude you really enjoy teaching, I can tell and you have the knack for it your great you keep me interested in all your video's. Loyal Subscriber.
We use water stones and diamond stones. I would suggest that it is easier for most to just pull the edge to the user with pressure until a burr is felt using your finger nail to feel the turned metal. Using a sharpe to coat the edge so you can see low spots and remove them with the rough stone. Removing the burr with lighter pressure and performing the light test on the edge (so there is no light reflected off the edge) then going to the finer stone. Here we use lighter pressure and strop the edge with leather to finish it up. In the end the knife or tool will have a mirror finish. For knives it's wonderful but for wood working the strop could be left out of the process. I tend to use Japanese water stones for knives and diamond stones for shop tools. For those who want only the minimum of stones, get the diamond stones as they hold their shape and last a long time though the finish will be more of a satin look.
Madam, you are such a great teacher. I have my late grandmother's butcher knives, and my mom's (left handed) knives that I haven't used because of how dull they are..... not for long now. you've shown me how to do it and confidence to try. blessings heaped upon you please continue your good work. with much respect Mi Wei.
Hello Leah, one thing you can add to your videos is "sharp is safe, dull is dangerous". I'm a butcher so I know this for the past 34 years. Thank you for all the informative videos. You are definitely a pro!!
Leah thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge. Your teaching method is simple and easy to understand. Whenever I need clarification on any DIY project around my home your are guru. Thanks again!!
OMG!! I cannot believe it!! I really needed this Vice! I never win! Now I can say I have Won! I'm soooo happy! I emailed you my address and contact info! Thank you so much Leah! The vise will be put to good use! SeeJanedrill is the Bomb! Deb Klenk
Thanks, Leah!! I was just shopping on Amazon to find something to cut my super-dull kitchen knife! I can't wait to go to Lowe's in the morning and get a diamond stone!
Leah, thanks for breaking it down. No one ever explains the difference between the stones. Now I know I have to get a diamond stone and how to properly use it. Take care!
When I'm in the kitchen and I need that one special little knife sharpened in a pinch you might not like it but I used the bottom of a ceramic mug Kathy from Florida
Sound advice with the plane blade if you adjust your angle till the lubricant is squeezed out a little between stone and blade it's supposedly the angle required that's what I use seems to work
I have some knives which I need to sharpen now and I have different types of stones, with the Arkansas stone being my favorite. I have been sharpening knives for decades and the only knife I could not sharpen was a Buck folding knife I got from an airbase I was stationed at. The rest are easy so hone and I love the stones so much.
Leah , you amaze me. Just interested in how you learned to do carpenter work? My granddad was a great carpenter, my dad did some of it,& welding also,SO, I am very interested in your career.😊
Hey Leah love your videos, VERY informative! I was wondering if you can make a video on sharpening the blades on a reeler lawn mower?would definitely appreciate it cheers!😊
Nice video and great instructions, many thanks. I have two sets of kitchen knives and a set for camping/hunting, the newest is fifteen years old. Maybe each set has been sharpened twice. The two sets inside because a nurse had an electric sharpener she brought over and wrecked my edges. She had decided to fix my knives while we were gone so they would be sharp. I don't have a strop so I use a steel. Steel in steel out, meaning when cleaned steel before setting in holder, and steel when knife comes out of holder. Always great edges. The steel merely realigns the edges in case they were bent. Wrong edge for shaving but you can slice a tomato so thin it only has one side, I know, I stole that from a commercial.
I have carried a penknife or other "folder" on me ever since I was a kid and have been sharpening my own knives for quite some time. I actually use a combination of stones and ceramic rods to tackle all of my sharpening and "dressing" needs. On the rare occasion where I come across a deep knick in the blade I've also used files before the stones / rods. However, it's good to get a reminder ever now and then that there is more than one way to do things. Thanks for the "gentle nudge" to keep me honest.
When I saw the direction which you push the blade to sharpen, I finally realized what I had been doing wrong in past attempts. Being hypersensitive, the scraping of the blade on the stone is like nails on a chalkboard to me. So I always dragged the blade backwards instead of pushing forward!
I use the harbor freight 1x30 belt sander and the 4 sided sharpening block and to finish it off a leather strap with polishing compound on it and it makes my knifes really sharp love you and your videos you do awesome work
I use a water stone, just like you demonstrated. I find of all sharpening methods out there, this is the best. I sharpen a lot of micro fine tools, for watchmaking. I need a jewelers loupe and I sharpen teeny tiny screwdrivers for a crisp edge. I also sharpen case knives used to get the back off some watches. I've even held my stone, and used it to sharpen can opener blades by moving the stone instead of the little round blade. About "A sharp tool, is a safe tool" Very true, I've had too many slips with dull tools, resulting in cuts on my hands. When a tool is sharp, it's easier to use, grips better onto a surface, and is more precise, without slipping!
Thank you Leah! I am off to sharpen my scissors and kitchen knives. I had no idea there was more than one kind of stone. I have a water stone that I purchased at the Harbor Freight store but no one could tell me how to use it.
Just to add a note on an older video: Once you have your blade(s) sharpened properly, you can use the bottom of a ceramic coffee cup (or similar ceramic surface) to maintain the edge. I seem to use my coffee cups more for honing than I do for coffee :)
Hi Lia, good job! You know i have 3 to 4 things to do the nifes to sharp it and nothing. I did it a seberals tumes and still nothing. So now i undderstand WHY? the thechniques luke u said ah......and you right! i will try and you way naw.........but i woud lije to have the third one, the diamant , that one is pefect for it..... but any how, i will try it you way.....thank u again!✌
I learned while taking a wood carving class to hone, a lot The idea behind it is that it keeps your blades sharp without removing much metal. I met a master chair maker who uses a diamond paste on the edge of a hardwood. When the edge becomes untrue, he planes it square again. He used it for all his blades and honed about every 15-20 minutes. His belief was that leather will give and remove the edge. He uses the same drawing technique as you do Ms Leah
For kitchen knives I like to use a diamond steel, but that only for non serrated blades. I don't have much of a tendency to use serrated blades much but when I have had need to sharpen one I used a pocket sited diamond steel. It's diameter is small enough to fit between each serration. It's a lot more work to sharpen this way but it's the only way to retain the serration. There are also diamond needle files available that would accomplish the same outcome.
Picked up a new technique for the bevel edge of a plane blade. Like the small circles approach! Can't wait to try/compare. Diamond sets are price-y but worth it. You can get a cheap learner set at HF, then upgrade if you find it is preferred.
The HF ones badly reflect their price range, but it is a good place to start. They have issues, but making dicey stuff work often leads to important learning. For example, they tend to bow upward, so I epoxied them to a flat planed board.
I am a retired butcher, sharp knives are our #1 most important tool, we all learn how to sharpen. She is 100% correct. Spend the time to learn this skill, there are no shortcuts that work. Using those mechanical devices , kind of work but your knife will not stay sharp.
You inspire me! Your teaching skills are amazing.
Thank you so much!
You are so good at explaining things. Yesterday I was working on something and I thought ‘I can do this’.
dlu975 yes she is an amazing instructor!!
Brilliant!!! Thankyou so much for posting this Leah...my hubby just loved it...simplicity in motion...100% for your presentation and the end results = sharp tools and no more cursing. Win win for me and for him.
@ 5:30 I always smile when Leah says "But here's the thing" because it means to me "Now pay attention as I'm about to tell you something important"
Thank you, Leah.
That was one of the best explanations of the different sharpening options - and methods - I have seen. You kept it simple, and instructive.
I really did go out and buy a stone after watching this! I'm so glad I don't have to buy a whole new set of knives now :) Thanks, Leah
you're welcome, Katie!
Absolutely the best knife sharpening tutorial out there. As usual.
You're the best. If nothing else you're authentic. I can think of no greater compliment. It's what I value most. Thank you for what you continually bring.
Learned so much from Leah,i love the dedication for your work and your viewers, thanks so much for sharing with us.
I've got this video in my mental rolodex. I review when I find a dull tool. It is the most straightforward instructions. Thanks!
OK, I don't know how you keep popping up in my life but every time, you seem to be the best source for beginner knowledge. Because of you, I've been able to fix up my house (including installing new toilets) and now I'm about to learn how to sharpen my hobby tools and knives. I don't believe in fate or anything like that but boy is it a nice coincidence to keep finding your videos!
This is the best tutorial on knife sharpening I've seen. Thanks!
the only negative thing I have to say os, when you sharpen a knife, never pull the sharp edge toward you. just switch hands end repeat. That being said, Leah is my favorite RUclipsr. I did construction for 4 years end painting end finished work for 5. end I still learn new end very helpful things from her. thank you Leah for all you do
Chris, that is great advice, but unfortunately I'm not ambidextrous...I might lose a finger...:)
Lol believe me, I understand :):) thank you for everything you do
She is amazing
I've always (since 1967) used oil stones for sharpening knives and other tools . After watching this video I believe I'll try a diamond stone - thanks for the great information!
Diamond stones are good for taking chips out of knifes/chisels, I use a oil stone for general sharpening, then i strop, gets it shave sharp. Diamond stones leave very coarse scratches.
Quick tip, when working with water, after finish sharpening remember to put some oil on the blade to avoid rust. Great video as always, thanks!
i like watching leah's video, clear voice and nice information
thanks!
Best tutorial out there. I've followed your routine and I've now got a very sharp chisel. It's a joy to use because suddenly carving through wood is effortless. I actually love the sharpening process too - it's almost meditative, and it has positive results. I don't use an angle guide either because it is not too hard to get a feel for the angle and keep it aligned. Thanks so much for sharing, Leah. You rock.
Found ur video informative n helpfu. Watched many videos on sharpening knives n tools n found yours the easiest to understand n apply. Kudos to you. Could u show a video on sharpening a hand sickle with its curved blade. Thanks
You made this video 6 years ago, but it is what I needed today. I love your channel and look forward to every video you make. I have lived by the mantra "if someone else did it, I should be able to as well" for quite awhile. Thank you for all you do. BTW, I loved you on your recent television docuseries on restoring antiques and treasures.
Leah is great!! She knows her stuff & an amazing teacher. She’s my go to girl.
One of the best teachers on youtube! Thank you so much for all the wonderful videos! You are a master of your craft and a master teacher for sure. Thanks again!
Very well done !!! Finally, something I already knew but the refresher was appreciated
It's people like you who are gonna help my generation learn things like this unlike old men who just run around complaining, these kids don't know sh!t blah blah. And if they try and teach one of us they give up within 20 min or spend the whole time talking about how back in their day, they didn't make mistakes.
Justin, Your comment made me smile.
justin hooten I have never done house work or had help with it. Leah really makes me feel confident. I don't even need to do most of these things right now but I'm watching so many videos.
You're right. This generation needs these videos and the positive attitude that comes with them. It's great
justin, in our (old men) defense you should try explaining something to a twit who thinks he already knows everything. It's beyond frustrating. About the third time I'm interrupted so my "pupil" can tell me how THEY do it I'm finished. If you already know everything don't ask. And if you DON'T, LISTEN to what is relayed to you. I'm more than happy to share my knowledge and experience. I draw the line however at little twits who bitch about everything and everybody.
Tom Swinburn trying to teach your kids anything DIY when theyre just glued to a smart phone.
Soon as something needs fixing they’re using that phone to ring you to ask you to do it...
No is my answer, but I will show YOU how to fix it 😉
Love your teaching style! So glad to find your channel.
Leah, I really appreciate this video and your ability to teach skills that are timeless. You know Leah, I believe that are skilled artisans everywhere, yet the ability to help/show/teach others is a gift that is rare. You have this gift. I for one, thank you for sharing your knowledge and gift with us. I hope that you are well, strong and able to keep teaching for years to come. Than you again.
you're very welcome, Tonia, and thank you so much for the compliment!!
Leah, you are such a good instructor/teacher/mentor. I love your whole persona and could watch you for hours. A+
Hi Leah, I'm a new subscriber. Just finished sharpening my kitchen knife with a wet stone for the first time and it now slices through a carrot effortlessly. Your video convinced me that I can do it! Thank you for your instructional videos. You are a great and engaging teacher.
I liked the sharpening tutorial and your explanation of the different stones. Even better it didn't involve any elaborate equipment or fancy technique. I was shown how to sharpen knives by a guy who worked in an abattoir, slaughtering cattle and boning and filleting meat. He taught me to use an oil stone with soap and water. Basically you wet the stone and rub over it with a bar of soap then start sharpening. Every so often you wipe the stone off with a wet rag and apply more soap and water. It keeps the stone clean and gets a very sharp edge very quickly. So sharp I can shave with it.
One of my favorite videos of yours because its long. You have a soothing voice that relaxes me.
Sharpening is making a new edge on the blade - honing is realigning the existing edge...
For best results though, use a leather strop after sharpening.
Old school
It was called a razor strap. It was also the disciplinary tool of choice where a belt wasn't handy. It worked exceedingly well at sharpening and honing my honesty skills.
lol. My dad was a barber... we were well acquainted with that strap!
InsideOfMyOwnMind
My Dad is a Carpenter who wore a belt and I too was well acquainted with it.
Mom was the one putting up with us all day so she was the one to watch out for.I use to run from it so she’d grab my arm and try to land it on the butt that was spinning her around and lurching forward as the belt was coming at it
She eventually switched to “Mothers little helper” we all liked that much better
@@Semprefi I called that adventure the "Butt whipping Merry go Round" (when my brother was getting it lol)
Thank you, Leah. I love your videos and your way of explaining how to do things. Thank you!
Leah, I started using a new device called the Work Sharp and it has the day diamond surface as well as ceramic and even leather on it for stropping. The best part is it has ramps on either side of the diamond surface that has the angles built in. All you have to do is place the knife or tool on the ramp and then carry it over to the surface and the angle is transferred very easily and I think it's great for beginners as well as old pros and it's only like $35 on Amazon
traderjoes, you really piqued my curiosity. I'm going to check it out.
He's probably talking about the Work Sharp guided sharpening system (WSGSS-BX). There are tons of RUclips videos about that system.
Personally I use a Lansky Deluxe kit for my pocket knives.
Leah, your videos are always great! Thank you for another. That said, I tired of using stones as it became a tiedius project that got old. I'm 64 now and discovered the Worksharp knife sharpener. And that is my new go to method. Fast, easy, and super sharp! I'd like to get your thoughts on it vs the stone. Thanks again
Leah, I love your channel. You have an amazing gift of explaining things.
Thanks, Leah. I need to sharpen just about everything in the house and shop. 😘😘😘
Great demonstration. Yes, simple is better. Sharpening can be kinda fun, too. I found an old hatchet in my barn, probably close to a century old. The edge on the blade was totally dull, it would have been impossible to cut your finger by running it up and down. I began to work on that edge for ten minutes or so every time I went out to the barn, first with a file and then with a Lansky round oilstone. It took a heck of a long time, but that edge finally came along. Now it’s really keen and I use it to split kindling for the wood stove. Sharpening tools by hand can be kind of meditative, I highly recommend it. Thanks for sharing your experience, Leah!
I love your channel. As a person who is just learning how to fix things and with no one to teach me, finding you is a blessing.
Glad that you find the videos helpful
If you stack two quarters on the stone and lay the back of the knife on the quarters, that's your sharpening angle.
Nice!
Nice!
...or use a matchbook (if you can find one).
that wud depend on the depth of the knife blade. a 20° angle is one with a right triangle where the shortest leg of the triangle ≈ 0.4 x the longer leg (and the knife blade is the longest side, which is the hypotenuse of the triangle). A 4/10 ratio of the legs of a right triangle is just fine for rough approximations like this. A 4/10 ratio yields a 21.8° angle which is very sufficient too. (the math is:
tangent of 22° ≈ 0.4.)
with two quarters laid on the sharpening stone, each quarter is 1.75 mm (.069"), so that's 3.5 mm high (0.138"). a blade that makes a 20° angle to that wud be 10.2mm from the stone to the quarters, which is ≈ 0.4". that is a blade that's does not have much depth! (the math is:
3.5mm / sin(20°) ≈ 10.2mm, or
0.138" / sin(20°) ≈ 0.40".
in all honesty, i think a person wud be doing better to guestimate the angle between the knife & the stone than to measure 0.4" up the knife blade from the stone to the top of the quarters. 🤷 But what do i know? Only enuf trigonometry to calculate the triangle dimensions. 😛 Now that u all have the dimensions, you kan do what is easiest for you. 😋
To each zher own.
(To each his own./To each her own.)
Leah, you're a great teacher with excellent taste in knives. I used to sell high end housewares, so I recognized your Wustoff knife right away. In my opinion, at the present time, they are the best around. I love the fact that they are so well balanced. Thanks for showing me the right way to sharpen them.
:)
I know this is an older video, but have to comment. I've always taken my kitchen knives to a pro to get them sharpened. I keep reminding him that I'm lefthanded, but he always looks at me like I'm crazy. I truly believe that there's a lefthanded & righthanded edge to a knife. After watching this video, I can sharpen my own knives. And I'll bet I get a better cutting edge, too!
When you sharpen your knifes the way Leah shows you, you'll get an even edge on both sides of the blade. Then your knifes won't be left- or right handed. Also, I don't believe in left- or right handed knifes. Only in sharp knifes and dull knifes. Try to avoid the dull ones and you'll be just fine...
You’re not wrong at all but if, like most kitchen knives, you have even, dual-bevelled knives just sharpening them evenly will make them ambidextrous again. However, there are many single or uneven bevel knives - most quality sushi knives or filleting knives are single bevel and so they are definitely left or right handed knives.
Leah! I Love your Bubbly attitude you really enjoy teaching, I can tell and you have the knack for it your great you keep me interested in all your video's. Loyal Subscriber.
Hey Buck, Thanks!
Your way of presenting yourself and teaching is so spot on.
Thanks a bunch for what you do.
Wonderful explanation about sharpening and different stones. I had no idea before why some stones were better than others. Thank you Leah.
You Rock! Thank You for all the tips & tricks, spending time watching all your video's
You are a gifted teacher! Thank you!
This rocks. Thanks for the video(s) -- all of them!!! Cheers!
you're welcome, Travis, and thanks!
Welcome back from your vacation, great tips on sharpening... Thank you
We use water stones and diamond stones. I would suggest that it is easier for most to just pull the edge to the user with pressure until a burr is felt using your finger nail to feel the turned metal. Using a sharpe to coat the edge so you can see low spots and remove them with the rough stone. Removing the burr with lighter pressure and performing the light test on the edge (so there is no light reflected off the edge) then going to the finer stone. Here we use lighter pressure and strop the edge with leather to finish it up. In the end the knife or tool will have a mirror finish. For knives it's wonderful but for wood working the strop could be left out of the process. I tend to use Japanese water stones for knives and diamond stones for shop tools. For those who want only the minimum of stones, get the diamond stones as they hold their shape and last a long time though the finish will be more of a satin look.
Madam, you are such a great teacher. I have my late grandmother's butcher knives, and my mom's (left handed) knives that I haven't used because of how dull they are..... not for long now. you've shown me how to do it and confidence to try. blessings heaped upon you please continue your good work. with much respect Mi Wei.
Good luck!
Really love the way you teach useful and informative stuff! Great job Leah!
Thanks Nadine
Nice tip for the plane blade, now I have to do it myself! Thanks.
Hello Leah, one thing you can add to your videos is "sharp is safe, dull is dangerous". I'm a butcher so I know this for the past 34 years. Thank you for all the informative videos. You are definitely a pro!!
Leah thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge. Your teaching method is simple and easy to understand. Whenever I need clarification on any DIY project around my home your are guru. Thanks again!!
Glad to hear it, Conrad!
How did I miss this one? A good knife sharpening system/skill is a must!
yes, it is! :)
Great video Leah! I have been looking for this info for a VERY long time! Thank You!!!
Hey Naudi, Did you realize you won the vice?
OMG!! I cannot believe it!! I really needed this Vice! I never win! Now I can say I have Won! I'm soooo happy! I emailed you my address and contact info! Thank you so much Leah! The vise will be put to good use! SeeJanedrill is the Bomb!
Deb Klenk
Leah, thanks for explaining how to sharpen a plane blade. Your videos are very helpful !
Glad to hear you found it helpful
Glad to hear you found it helpful
Leah thanks for explaining the techniques that will help to overcome the sharpening /honing related intimidation..
Respect from Karachi.
Thanks, Leah!! I was just shopping on Amazon to find something to cut my super-dull kitchen knife! I can't wait to go to Lowe's in the morning and get a diamond stone!
So much knowledge and wisdom thanks for sharing so helpful
I appreciate your practical approach
Thank you! I always guff up when I sharpen things!
Leah, thanks for breaking it down. No one ever explains the difference between the stones. Now I know I have to get a diamond stone and how to properly use it. Take care!
When I'm in the kitchen and I need that one special little knife sharpened in a pinch you might not like it but I used the bottom of a ceramic mug Kathy from Florida
Sound advice with the plane blade if you adjust your angle till the lubricant is squeezed out a little between stone and blade it's supposedly the angle required that's what I use seems to work
I have some knives which I need to sharpen now and I have different types of stones, with the Arkansas stone being my favorite. I have been sharpening knives for decades and the only knife I could not sharpen was a Buck folding knife I got from an airbase I was stationed at. The rest are easy so hone and I love the stones so much.
Sidney, Ahhh! you're a Arkansas stone man. Nice to hear from you Sidney.
Leah , you amaze me. Just interested in how you learned to do carpenter work? My granddad was a great carpenter, my dad did some of it,& welding also,SO, I am very interested in your career.😊
Jane is so smart. Thanks Jane great vid.
Hey Leah love your videos, VERY informative! I was wondering if you can make a video on sharpening the blades on a reeler lawn mower?would definitely appreciate it cheers!😊
You do a great job on your videos! Your voice is so nice for videos, you should be an audio book reader🙂
thanks, Les!
Nice video and great instructions, many thanks.
I have two sets of kitchen knives and a set for camping/hunting, the newest is fifteen years old. Maybe each set has been sharpened twice. The two sets inside because a nurse had an electric sharpener she brought over and wrecked my edges. She had decided to fix my knives while we were gone so they would be sharp.
I don't have a strop so I use a steel. Steel in steel out, meaning when cleaned steel before setting in holder, and steel when knife comes out of holder. Always great edges. The steel merely realigns the edges in case they were bent. Wrong edge for shaving but you can slice a tomato so thin it only has one side, I know, I stole that from a commercial.
Thanks! I need to try this on my scissors and kitchen knives! 👍🏽
I have carried a penknife or other "folder" on me ever since I was a kid and have been sharpening my own knives for quite some time. I actually use a combination of stones and ceramic rods to tackle all of my sharpening and "dressing" needs. On the rare occasion where I come across a deep knick in the blade I've also used files before the stones / rods. However, it's good to get a reminder ever now and then that there is more than one way to do things. Thanks for the "gentle nudge" to keep me honest.
🙂👍
Absolutely excellent explanation.
When I saw the direction which you push the blade to sharpen, I finally realized what I had been doing wrong in past attempts.
Being hypersensitive, the scraping of the blade on the stone is like nails on a chalkboard to me. So I always dragged the blade backwards instead of pushing forward!
Nathan DuPhene Me too!
Leah, thank you. You’re an awesome teacher.
I am going to go out and get me some stones!!!! Thank you Leah.
You are the Bob Ross of DIY videos!
You are an awesome teacher!
💕
I am no expert, so appreciate the effort you put into your videos. I am looking for a
diamond stone ASAP.
Welcome back. hope you had a wonderful Vacation. wonderful video just in time for the holidays with great directions
thanks, Rick!
I use the harbor freight 1x30 belt sander and the 4 sided sharpening block and to finish it off a leather strap with polishing compound on it and it makes my knifes really sharp love you and your videos you do awesome work
thanks, Louie!
You're a great teacher. I love your personality .....
I use a water stone, just like you demonstrated. I find of all sharpening methods out there, this is the best. I sharpen a lot of micro fine tools, for watchmaking. I need a jewelers loupe and I sharpen teeny tiny screwdrivers for a crisp edge. I also sharpen case knives used to get the back off some watches. I've even held my stone, and used it to sharpen can opener blades by moving the stone instead of the little round blade.
About "A sharp tool, is a safe tool" Very true, I've had too many slips with dull tools, resulting in cuts on my hands. When a tool is sharp, it's easier to use, grips better onto a surface, and is more precise, without slipping!
Thanks William for sharing your personal and professional experience with the community. Much appreciated!!!
Thank you Leah! I am off to sharpen my scissors and kitchen knives. I had no idea there was more than one kind of stone. I have a water stone that I purchased at the Harbor Freight store but no one could tell me how to use it.
you're welcome, Shar, glad it was helpful!
Just to add a note on an older video: Once you have your blade(s) sharpened properly, you can use the bottom of a ceramic coffee cup (or similar ceramic surface) to maintain the edge. I seem to use my coffee cups more for honing than I do for coffee :)
Hi Lia, good job!
You know i have 3 to 4 things to do the nifes to sharp it and nothing. I did it a seberals tumes and still nothing. So now i undderstand WHY? the thechniques luke u said ah......and you right! i will try and you way naw.........but i woud lije to have the third one, the diamant , that one is pefect for it.....
but any how, i will try it you way.....thank u again!✌
Wow! Thanks for your detailed awesome explanation. You're an excellent teacher.
I love your way of teaching how to do everything thank you so much 😊
I learned while taking a wood carving class to hone, a lot The idea behind it is that it keeps your blades sharp without removing much metal. I met a master chair maker who uses a diamond paste on the edge of a hardwood. When the edge becomes untrue, he planes it square again. He used it for all his blades and honed about every 15-20 minutes. His belief was that leather will give and remove the edge. He uses the same drawing technique as you do Ms Leah
Love your content. Watching you run your fingers on the stone made my skin crawl, though.
For kitchen knives I like to use a diamond steel, but that only for non serrated blades. I don't have much of a tendency to use serrated blades much but when I have had need to sharpen one I used a pocket sited diamond steel. It's diameter is small enough to fit between each serration. It's a lot more work to sharpen this way but it's the only way to retain the serration. There are also diamond needle files available that would accomplish the same outcome.
Awesome Leah. You are my favorite channel
Your videos are the best Leah! A hug from Brasil!
Hola Luiz
You are an ace teacher. Bless you and your shaky hands though x
Your a blessing !learned so much from you.
Leather strap or belt at the end Leah . Like a barber sharpens his razor . Good vid
I like your teaching style thanks
Great video Leah, very helpful! Thanks for sharing and welcome back!
Thanks ShysterLawyer.
Picked up a new technique for the bevel edge of a plane blade. Like the small circles approach! Can't wait to try/compare.
Diamond sets are price-y but worth it. You can get a cheap learner set at HF, then upgrade if you find it is preferred.
Hey Robert, Didn't realize HF carried them.
The HF ones badly reflect their price range, but it is a good place to start. They have issues, but making dicey stuff work often leads to important learning. For example, they tend to bow upward, so I epoxied them to a flat planed board.