The Quick & Easy Chisel Sharpening Method Every Woodworker Needs

Here's a good woodworking tip for beginners and pros: you don't need to spend on fancy jigs or honing guides to sharpen your chisels. With a simple freehand sharpening method, you can achieve a razor-sharp edge using just three flat diamond sharpening stones to take chisels that have been sharpened to roughly 150-200 grit and work them up to a super fine 1,200 grit. Just add some honing oil and finish with a leather strop for an edge that's both precise and long-lasting.

To sharpen, start with the coarse stone and pour a few drops of oil onto your diamond plates. Then, grip the chisel firmly — one hand on the handle and the other near the blade for control. Hold it at about a 25- to 30-degree angle as this balances sharpness and durability. If the angle is too steep, it won't cut effectively; too shallow, and it will be sharp but won't hold the edge long. Use lengthy, steady strokes, pushing the chisel away from you. This step takes care of any major nicks and gets the basic shape right.

Next, switch to your medium grit stone (about 600 grit). This helps refine the edge and smooth out any rough scratches from the coarse stone. Keep the same angle and use even strokes. Feel for a burr on the opposite side of the bevel; it's a sign you're on the right track. Finally, move to the super fine grit stone to polish the edge and achieve a razor-sharp finish. This step will remove any remaining scratches from the medium grit. Light, consistent strokes work best here.

After sharpening your chisel on the stone, it's time for the finishing touch — stropping. This step gives your chisel a mirror-like finish, removing any tiny burrs that remain and making the edge even sharper. Use a leather strop (you can buy one for $23.99 at Amazon) and a bit of polishing compound. Hold the chisel with the bevel facing down and draw it back along the strop, maintaining the same angle you used on the stones. Do this about 30 times then flip the chisel over and strop the back flat against the leather. It might seem minor, but this step makes a huge difference, leaving you with an edge that slices through wood effortlessly for all your woodworking projects.

To extend the time between sharpenings, you can also give chisels a quick strop between uses. Just a few strokes can help maintain the edge and reduce the need for more extensive sharpening. And don't forget about your sharpening stones — they need care too. To clean a diamond sharpening stone, rinse it under warm water to remove any metal filings and debris. Use a nylon brush or a non-abrasive pad to gently scrub the surface, ensuring you reach all the grooves. Dry the stone thoroughly with a clean cloth before storing to prevent rust. By following these tips, you'll keep your chisels in peak condition, making your woodworking projects smoother and more enjoyable. Although pricey (a four-stone kit like this one from Sharpening Supplies can cost over $300), diamond sharpening stones are tools definitely worth investing in to start woodworking at home.