V-tool sharpening?

James A · #1 03-05-2008, 07:27 PM

I need help on learning to sharpen V-tools. I tried to sharpen one that I had, but I only made it duler than what it already was. Luckly, I bought a better set at the wood carving show down in Texas last weekend. I have tried suggestions on other posts, but I wasn't able to sharpen it. Can anyone help?

Dan S · #2 03-06-2008, 01:27 AM

I cheat and use a power strop. It only takes a couple of seconds and gives a great edge. By chance do you have a drill press?

doris · #3 03-06-2008, 01:41 AM

the way i do it is so : i first put it othogonal, to make the edge a line. i like the corners be a little behind, but dont try this when learning sharpening a v-tool. just make it straight edge to begin with... then i pretend it is two flat chisels, that is i first sharpen one leg of the v, that is easy since its just a flat chisel, then the other, again easy. now the only thing which is not sharp is the connection between the legs, the corner of the v... to get this sharp, grab a loupe to watch closely what you do. put this corner on your stone, scary sharp paper or whatever you use, and rock it sligthly to the sides, that is from one flat side to the other. do only a few times, and look with loupe what has happened. you want do it very regular, to not make a nose, or dent. keep repeating...also always watch the edge. in the middle of v you see a whitel ine as long this part is dull, when it vanish, you are ready for stropping... strop inside with the leather bend over the corner of a block, to reach completely inside to remove the burr... hope this helps...

Ashbys · #4 03-06-2008, 08:03 AM

James,

I assume that you are doing this by hand. Doris is correct. Chris pye also has a great site that shows how to sharpen V tools.

You have two flat chisel joined together, It is very easy to lose the edge at the point by stroping . If your doing everthing correctly , try matching the strokes. 10 left 10 right 10 left 10 right 9 left 9 right.

Some times the balancing of your actions will get the edge you want. It is the old why boy scouts were taught to sharpen a knife. When you do the center point , be careful because it will not take much to roll the point and dull the cutter.

Ash