Sharp Tools

In my opinion, a sharp tool is one of, if not, the most important aspects in woodturning. I only wish that I had figured that out earlier, back when I was getting started. A sharp tool makes for much easier tool control, less grabs and catches, making for much safer turning. It also makes for less sanding, which really makes me happy.

There are several ways to sharpen your tools. The first one that I tried was the belt sander. It did not work for me and I have never seen the tool come off a belt sander that was sharp. Second, is free hand on a bench top grinder. This method does work, and works good, if you are steady enough with your hands and if you can match the bevel angle that you ground the last time. Too many ifs and too much time spent for me. There are many different sharpening systems out there which all work in about the same way. The one that I use is the Wolverine. It’s fast, it’s easy and not that expensive. I have mine set up on a six inch grinder because I already had the grinder. If I was starting over again, I would go to an eight inch grinder.

Don’t be afraid to sharpen your tools often, even if you’re not sure that it needs it. If you use the jig type system, you can leave it set for the tool you are using at that point of your turning project. Make sure that your grinder is close to your lathe. With the two fore mentioned steps, you can touch up or sharpen your tool in less than one minute. Don’t worry about grinding away your tools in a short period of time; you are taking so little off by keeping them sharp. It will take years to grind them away. Make sure to wear eye protection when at the grinder.