Try this website. http://www.ellenwoodarts.com/
He has a VHS or DVD available to teach sharpening. I have the DVD version and it is fantastic.

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

I am not sure what you mean by expensive?? I use 400,800,1200 and 2000 grit and have used the same 4 sheets of sandpaper for the past 2 years? Just gave them to a friend to get started......seems cheap enough to me....besides, you need to be stropping, not sharpening all the time..

[FK]

If you are using the abrasive paper for 2+ years, that is excellent. Â* I normally get very little life with paper abrasives when sharpening new tools to develop the profile I desire. Â*After the initial shaping, any additional work is via strop and Yellowstone or green CrO.

My favorite lubricant for stones and the DMT diamond plates if plain mineral oil (baby oil in the grocery store). Â*It also works on the paper or belt material when they are glued to a MDF piece or glass plate.

The fastest for me is the DMT diamond hones and the blue alumina zirconia also now known as 'Quicklap' (TM), aint the internet wonderfull, new catchy name and Trade Mark to make someone famous.

I really enjoy reading this site, everyone is generous with advice to other carvers.

Regards,
FK