If you’re using tools in your shop, you need to know how to sharpen them. It’s an old adage, but true, that dull tools are more dangerous than sharp tools. You’re likely to force a dull tool to do what it should be doing, and that leads to accidents. Additionally, your woodworking will be easier and more pleasant when you’re working with sharp tools.
What’s covered in this class
We cover sharpening techniques for a broad array of tools in this class. In addition to covering a lot of tools, the class offers a variety of techniques, from hand sharpening to power sharpening, whetstones to low rpm grinders. You’re sure to find a sharpening approach here that works with your shop, your budget, and your skills. You’ll learn to sharpen:
- Router bits
- Bench chisels
- Plane irons
- Lathe chisels
- Card scrapers and cabinet scrapers
- Forstner bits
Sharpening systems
We realize that each woodworker places different demands on their tools and has a different setup in their shop. As a result, we show you a variety of approaches to sharpening, including:
- Whetstones, including silicone carbide, water stones, and diamond stones
- Sharpening on a glass plate
- Freehand sharpening
- The use of sharpening jigs
- Low rpm grinder
- WorkSharp
- Rotary tools
And some great tips
On top of the sharpening techniques, we provide you with great tips and tricks to make your sharpening easier, such as:
- How to determine when a tool is dull
- Cleaning your cutting tools, which can help you avoid sharpening
- How to prevent whetstones from clogging
With the broad array of tips, tricks, and techniques offered in this class, you’re sure to be able to keep the cutting edges in your shop at their best.
Bonus materials available after purchase
Printable Class Guide PDF
Download and print this PDF Guide to complement your Class. It’s a great reference for the many Sharpening tips you’ll see in the class video.
Class Resources PDF
Print this reference for information on where to get the items and tools used in this class.
Video: Meet Your Instructor
Download this short video to meet your class instructor, George Vondriska.
Video: More about Sharpening
Download this short video to hear George talk more about the critical importance of using sharp tools.
How do I know what the Class covers?
Every Class has a free Preview video you can watch, to give you a flavor of the Instructor and the skills or project that will be covered. In addition, the Overview tab includes a thorough written description of the Class. And finally, each Class Session has a brief written summary of the content in that Session, including the length of each Session video. You will get a good feel for the Class content by reviewing these resources.
Can I view a Class on my tablet device or mobile phone?
No problem. Most newer model smartphones or other mobile/tablet devices with an internet connection are able to play the class videos. Simply log in to CRAFT & HOBBY, and you can view any class.
How do I access the Bonus Materials for the class?
Go to view your class, and each individual bonus element is accessible by simply clicking on each item. You’ll find the bonus materials directly below your main class viewer frame. You can access the bonus materials as many times as you would like and/or save them to your device.
Can I print out Class details?
For any Bonus Material that is a PDF Download, yes you can. Just click on the icon/button for the Bonus element you want, and print with your local printer.
What are PDF downloads?
These are simply documents, plans, or written materials that are formatted in a way to print out and retain for reference. By simply clicking on the icon/link for any PDF Download that is included with a Class, you can print that document on your own printer or simply view the contents on your computer/mobile device.
Are there any system requirements to view the Class video content?
Your Class video content is best when viewed on a computer manufactured in the past couple of years with a good broadband Internet connection (not dialup). We also highly recommend using the latest version of Firefox, Safari, or Chrome as your Internet Browser, though recent versions of Internet Explorer will work as well. The recommended screen resolution is 1024 x 768 or larger.
How do I contact Craft And Hobby?
If your question is about the Class content, please use the Class Discussion benefit to ask your question online – and you'll receive feedback from the Class Instructor. Even your fellow Class participants may jump in to offer tips and advice from their experience. If you have other questions or need help, you can email us at craftandhobby@program-director.net or call us toll-free, at 1-833-363-1239. Service Representatives will be available Monday-Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Central time, excluding normal holidays.
