Tool Sharpening

Date: Saturday 25th April
Time: 1pm - 3pm

A sharp tool changes everything.

In this two-hour hands-on sharpening workshop, furniture maker Nick James will guide you through the fundamentals of sharpening so you can confidently look after your own tools at home.

Whether your chisels are a bit tired or your plane irons have lost their edge, this session will show you how to bring them back to life — properly sharp, safe to use, and a pleasure to work with. Expect practical demonstrations, plenty of time at the stones, and a focus on understanding why sharpening works, not just following a recipe.

You’ll explore a range of sharpening systems, including diamond plates and Japanese waterstones, and learn how to choose the right approach for different tools and situations.

Bring along a selection of your own tools to sharpen on the day, and go home with shiny, scary-sharp tools.

What You’ll Learn:

• The basics of good sharpening technique
• How to sharpen straight-edged tools including knives, chisels and plane blades
• An introduction to diamond plates and Japanese whetstones
• How to choose the right stone and system for the job
• Care, maintenance and storage of sharpening stones
• How to become confident and self-sufficient in sharpening your own tools

What You’ll Leave With:

• Sharpened tools ready for use
• A clear understanding of different sharpening systems
• The confidence to maintain your tools at home
• A deeper appreciation of sharpness (you’ll never look at a blunt chisel the same way again)

What’s Included:

• Use of sharpening machines, diamond plates and waterstones
• Tea and coffee throughout the session

This workshop is suitable for beginners as well as makers who want to improve their sharpening skills. Places are limited to keep the session focused and supportive, so early booking is advised.

Come and give your tools the edge they deserve.