Razor-Sharp Knives Without a Whetstone! DIY Sharpener Millions Don't Know About, by Maker Mike on YouTube. 8 min 28 s.
- Video length
- 8 min 28 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Lay a sheet of 240 grit wet and dry paper flat on a glass sheet or tile. Wet the paper slightly so it grips the surface and stays flat.
Hold the knife at a steady angle of about 15 to 20 degrees to the paper. Keep your fingers behind the edge, never on it.
Push the blade away from you along the paper, as if slicing a thin layer off it. Work from heel to tip and cover the whole edge.
Do about 20 to 30 strokes on one side, then turn the knife over and repeat on the other side. Keep the angle the same every stroke.
Switch to 400 grit paper and repeat the strokes on both sides. This removes the scratches from the coarse paper.
Move up to 800 grit, then 1200 grit, repeating the same motion. The edge should feel smoother and start to catch on your thumbnail.
Strop the blade on a piece of cardboard or leather. Pull it backward at the same angle about 10 times per side to remove the burr.
Wipe the blade clean and test it on a tomato or sheet of paper. If it still drags, go back one grit and repeat.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep the angle constant, since a wobbling wrist rounds the edge and undoes the work.
Wet the paper so it clings to the flat surface and does not tear or slide.
Wash and dry the knife straight after sharpening to remove metal grit and paper residue.
Do not press hard, let the abrasive do the cutting so you keep control of the blade.
Questions
Can I sharpen a serrated knife this way?
No, sandpaper on a flat surface works for plain edges. Serrated knives need a thin round file or rod that fits into each groove.
How often should I sharpen my kitchen knife?
For home cooking, a light touch-up every few weeks and a full sharpening every few months is usually enough, depending on use.
Do I need special sandpaper?
Use wet and dry paper, not ordinary wood sandpaper. It lasts longer when wet and gives a smoother finish at the fine grits.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
