Knife sharpening is an essential skill for anyone who works in the kitchen or is interested in knives. A sharp knife is not only more efficient, but it is also safer to use. In this article, we will explore how to sharpen your knife for the best sharpness and durability.

Why is knife sharpening important?

When a knife is used frequently, the blade will gradually become duller, no matter how good the steel or other marketing terms. A dull knife will lead to more torn food, a poorer cooking experience and can also increase the risk of accidents as it requires more force to cut through ingredients. Therefore, it is important to sharpen your knife regularly to create and maintain optimal performance.

Step by step guide to knife sharpening

1. Choose the right whetstone: There are different types of whetstones available, such as diamond stones and various cheap and expensive whetstones. When you're starting out, it doesn't really matter which type, but if you're inexperienced, you should practice with a medium-coarse stone (e.g. 400 grit) and a knife that can handle getting a little streaky while you practice.

2. Prepare the whetstone: Before you start sharpening, soak the whetstone in water for a few minutes. This will make the surface smooth and reduce friction between the knife and the stone.

3. Sharpening the angle: Place the knife on the stone with the blade facing the stone and hold it at an angle of about 20 degrees. This will help create a sharp edge. Move the knife back and forth over the stone in a steady motion. Repeat this process on both sides of the knife until you have achieved the desired sharpness.

4. Remove burrs: After the sharpening process, a burr may form along the edge of the knife. To remove it, you can gently drag the knife in the opposite direction over the sharpening stone.

5. Use a sharpening board as an aid: To achieve a smoother and more precise sharpening process, you can use a sharpening board. This will help keep the knife at the correct angle and reduce the risk of damage.

6. Test the sharpness: After the sharpening process, you can test the sharpness of the knife by carefully trying to cut through a sheet of paper. If the knife slides through the paper without resistance, you have achieved the desired sharpness.

7. Maintain your knife regularly: To maintain the sharpness of your knife over time, it is important to sharpen it regularly. The frequency depends on how much the knife is used, but a general recommendation is to sharpen it every 1-3 months.

By following these steps, you can achieve a sharp and efficient knife that will give you a better cutting experience and safety.