If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about sharpening your scissors very often. But if you’ve ever tried to cut through a thick piece of fabric or paper with dull scissors, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only is it difficult to get a clean cut, but you can also damage the fabric or paper. Sharpening your scissors regularly is essential for keeping them in good working condition and preventing them from becoming damaged.
There are a few different ways to sharpen scissors, but one of the most effective methods is to use a stone. Sharpening scissors with a stone is a relatively simple process, but it does require some practice to get the hang of it. However, once you’ve mastered the technique, you’ll be able to keep your scissors sharp for years to come. In this article, we’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to sharpen scissors with a stone.
Before you begin sharpening your scissors, it’s important to gather the necessary materials. You’ll need a sharpening stone, a lubricant, and a pair of scissors. Once you have all of your materials, you’re ready to begin. First, apply a small amount of lubricant to the stone. This will help to prevent the scissors from sticking to the stone and will also help to create a smoother finish. Next, hold the scissors in one hand and the stone in the other hand. Position the scissors so that the cutting edge is facing the stone. Slowly and gently, move the scissors back and forth across the stone, using even pressure. Be sure to keep the angle of the scissors consistent as you move them across the stone. Continue sharpening the scissors until the cutting edge is sharp.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sharpening Scissors with a Stone
Materials You’ll Need:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Whetstone (coarse and fine) | For grinding and honing the blades |
| Oil (optional) | To lubricate and prevent overheating |
| Cloth or paper towels | For wiping and cleaning |
Safety Precautions:
Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. Use caution when handling sharp scissors. Keep the work area well-lit and free from distractions.
Step 1: Prepare the Whetstone
Select a medium-grit whetstone for sharpening. Soak the stone in water for 10-15 minutes to soften it. Apply a few drops of oil to the surface if desired. This will lubricate the stone and reduce friction during sharpening.
Step 2: Grip the Scissors and Stone
Hold the scissors in your dominant hand, with the blades slightly open. Position the whetstone firmly on a stable surface. Place the inner surface of one scissor blade against the whetstone, at an angle of 15-20 degrees.
Step 3: Sharpen the Scissors
Move the scissors forward and backward along the whetstone, applying moderate pressure. Use a smooth, even stroke. This will grind down the metal and create a new edge. Continue sharpening for 15-20 passes per blade. Alternate between the inner and outer surfaces of each blade, ensuring an even bevel.
Tip: To check if the scissors are sharp enough, cut through a piece of paper or fabric. If the cut is clean and effortless, the scissors are sufficiently sharpened.
Step 4: Hone the Scissors (Optional)
Once the scissors are sharpened, use a fine-grit whetstone to hone the edge. This will remove any burrs or imperfections created during the sharpening process. Repeat the sharpening motion for 5-10 passes per blade.
Step 5: Clean and Lubricate
Wipe the scissors with a cloth or paper towels to remove any metal shavings. Apply a small amount of oil to the blades and moving parts to prevent rust and maintain smooth operation.
Determining the Correct Angle for Sharpening
1. Identify the Edge Type
Scissors blades come with various edge types, including flat, beveled, and serrated edges. The angle for sharpening will vary depending on the type of edge.
2. Use a Sharpening Jig
A sharpening jig is a helpful tool that ensures the correct angle is maintained throughout the sharpening process. It is typically made of metal or plastic and has a slot or guide for holding the scissors.
3. Hold the Scissors at a Constant Angle
Once you have identified the correct angle, hold the scissors at that angle relative to the sharpening stone. Maintain a consistent angle as you move the scissors across the stone.
4. Test the Sharpness
After sharpening, test the scissors by cutting a thin piece of paper. If the scissors cut smoothly and cleanly, you have sharpened them at the correct angle.
| Edge Type | Sharpening Angle |
|---|---|
| Flat | 15-20 degrees |
| Beveled | 22-25 degrees |
| Serrated | 25-30 degrees (per tooth) |
Safety Precautions When Sharpening Scissors
1. Wear Safety Gear
Protect your eyes with safety glasses and your hands with gloves. Scissors are sharp, and you do not want to risk an injury.
2. Secure the Scissors
Clamp the scissors into a vise or use a bench hook to hold them securely. This will prevent them from moving around while you are sharpening them.
3. Sharpen in a Well-Ventilated Area
Sharpening scissors creates small metal particles. You do not want to inhale these particles, so make sure you are working in a well-ventilated area.
4. Use the Correct Stone
The type of stone you use to sharpen your scissors will depend on the material of the scissors. For most scissors, a fine or medium-grit sharpening stone will suffice.
5. Hold the Scissors at the Correct Angle
The angle at which you hold the scissors when sharpening is important. For most scissors, you will want to hold them at a 15-degree angle to the stone.
6. Sharpen Both Blades Evenly
It is important to sharpen both blades of the scissors evenly. If you sharpen one blade more than the other, the scissors will not cut properly and will be more likely to damage materials.
To sharpen both blades evenly, follow these steps:
- Sharpen one blade of the scissors for a few strokes.
- Flip the scissors over and sharpen the other blade for the same number of strokes.
- Repeat steps 1 and 2 until both blades are sharp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When sharpening scissors with a stone, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. These include:
- Pushing too hard: Pushing too hard on the stone can damage the blades or cause them to become misaligned.
- Sliding the blades back and forth: Sliding the blades back and forth on the stone will not sharpen them properly. Instead, use a gentle rocking motion.
- Using the wrong stone: Using the wrong type of stone can damage the blades. For example, using a coarse stone on fine blades can cause them to become chipped or scratched.
- Sharpening the blades at the wrong angle: Sharpening the blades at the wrong angle can make them less effective or even cause them to become damaged.
- Not Honing the blades: Honing the blades after sharpening them is essential for creating a smooth, sharp edge.
7. Sharpening on the inside of the blades
Sharpening the inside of the blades can weaken them and make them more likely to break. Always sharpen the outside of the blades only.
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
 |
 |
Understanding the Grind and Grit of Sharpening Stones
Abrasives are classified by their grit and grind. Grit refers to the size of the abrasive particles, measured in microns.
| Grit | Use |
|---|---|
| 120-220 | Coarsest grits for removing old edges or sharpening very dull blades. |
| 400-600 | Medium grits for reshaping dull edges and creating a consistent bevel. |
| 1000-2000 | Fine grits for finishing and refining the edge, resulting in a sharp and smooth cut. |
Grind refers to the shape of the abrasive particles. Common grind types include:
Silicon Carbide Grind
Sharp, angular particles that cut quickly but can create a rough edge.
Aluminum Oxide Grind
Versatile, blocky particles that balance cutting speed and edge smoothness.
Diamond Grind
Exceptionally hard particles that cut quickly and produce a very sharp edge, but can be expensive.
Borazon Grind
Synthetic, cube-shaped particles that offer a combination of cutting speed, edge quality, and durability.
How To Sharpen Scissors With A Stone
Sharpening scissors with a stone is a simple and effective way to keep them sharp. It is important to use the correct technique to avoid damaging the scissors or the stone.
First, you will need to gather your materials. You will need a whetstone or sharpening stone, a honing oil, and a cloth or paper towel. If you are using a new whetstone, you will need to soak it in water for at least 15 minutes before using it.
Next, you will need to prepare the scissors. Open the scissors and hold them so that the cutting edges are facing up. Apply a small amount of honing oil to the cutting edges.
Now, you are ready to start sharpening the scissors. Hold the whetstone in one hand and the scissors in the other hand. Place the cutting edge of the scissors on the whetstone at a 20-degree angle. Draw the scissors towards you, applying light pressure. Repeat this motion until the cutting edge is sharp.
Once you have sharpened one cutting edge, repeat the process on the other cutting edge. Be sure to keep the angle consistent to ensure that the scissors are sharpened evenly.
Finally, wipe the scissors clean with a cloth or paper towel. Your scissors are now sharpened and ready to use.
People Also Ask
How often should I sharpen my scissors?
You should sharpen your scissors every few months, or more often if you use them frequently.
Can I sharpen any type of scissors with a stone?
No, you should not sharpen serrated scissors with a stone. Serrated scissors require a special sharpener.
What is the best type of whetstone for sharpening scissors?
The best type of whetstone for sharpening scissors is a fine-grit whetstone.
