Large chisels

[Spookhouse]

Ok i have a basic set of chisels you use with a mallet. So i guess there large? But anyway can anyone point me to a good article or explanation on how to sharpen these chisels? And also i have a flat rectangular piece and a half cone shaped peach colored stone that came with my chisles. So how do i know if i am supposed to put water or oil on it? DO you use it dry? i dunno I've carved for a while but not really looked into sharpening at all so a good article or your advice would be greatly appreciated thanks guys.

[Eleanor]

Oh I could write a book on how to sharpen those things. Really really try to find someone who can show you, it's worth travelling to find out how from an expert. Made all the difference to my carving. Google up Chris Pye's woodcarving website as he has downloadable free pamphlets on this and many other things. Sounds like you might need a few more stones of different textures: I have a set of 3 flats and 3 "slipstones" ( the wedges with a curved edge) and proceed through them in order.....

[Eleanor]

Oil or water? Unless you have bought dedicated Japanese water stones at great cost, use oil, and keep adding it so you can always see oil on the surface. Some stones drink loads of oil at first , just dish it on....

[Spookhouse]

Thank you i will try to find some one in my area.