Sharpen Your Own Chisels & Plane Blades

Meeting Times

09/21/2023 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

9/21/2023

Closed

About

Learn to give plane blades and chisels a razor-sharp edge so you can experience the joy of doing fine woodworking by hand. This class will show you how to sharpen your personal chisels to a razor-sharp cutting edge using either of two methods:

The system used for BARN's chisels and plane blades, which involves sharpening flat bevels using the Lie-Nielson honing guide.
A hollow-grind method, which involves using a grinder to create a concave bevel and then flattening the heel and toe on water stones up to 6000 grit.

The class will also cover an essential step with both methods: flatting the back of the chisel or plane blade by using sandpaper and water stones, a chore needed onlyy once in the life of a blade unless rust spots develop.

Having sharp tools, whether they’re BARN’s or your own, is not only safer, it’s also key to dramatically improving the quality of your work.

BARN's sharpening equipment is available for use during open studio times, provided you have first taken the free, one-hour Orientation to the Woodshop class. Open studio is free for members and $20 for guests.

Materials

Bring one or two plane or chisel blades that need sharpening, if you have them. You can get hands-on experience with the hollow-grind method only on your personal tools.
If you don’t have tools to bring, no problem. You can learn BARN’s method on BARN tools.

If you bring tools in really bad shape, there might not be enough time in the class to get them really sharp.

Prerequisites

Before the class begins, you must have completed Orientation to the Woodshop.

Class Policies

Ages 14 and up are welcome.

Wear closed-toe shoes. While using grinders, you must also wear safety glasses, tie back long hair, and avoid loose-fitting clothing and jewelry. We recommend bringing your own safety glasses.

BARN Policies

View BARN's current COVID-19 health and safety protocols.
BARN is committed to accessibility. Tuition Assistance is available. Fill out the application before registering.
For those who might need physical assistance, learn more about BARN's Companion Program.

Instructors or Guides

Ted Newman

Ted studied woodworking and has taught classes at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship in Rockport, Maine. He is active in BARN's woodworker group and volunteers as a safety monitor.