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"Surface flattening" is a fundamental technique in knife sharpening. Many beginners use the popular method of marking the sharpening stone with a pencil to check for even grinding. I remember relying on this method when I first started sharpening knives. However, there’s a significant pitfall in this approach that often gets overlooked.

Using a pencil to mark the surface makes it easy to spot areas that haven’t been ground evenly, which is convenient. But if you rely too much on this technique, your focus shifts to "erasing the pencil marks" rather than mastering the essentials of sharpening: maintaining the correct angle and applying consistent pressure. As a result, you may end up with a flat surface without properly refining the edge, which is the ultimate goal.

Another hidden issue is that the graphite from the pencil can leave traces on the stone, subtly altering its sharpening properties. This is especially true when working with high-quality natural whetstones, where even small changes can prevent the stone from performing at its best.

So, what’s the alternative? I recommend training yourself to rely on sound and touch. Pay attention to the sound of the blade gliding over the stone and the tactile feedback in your hands. These sensory cues can help you gauge evenness without needing pencil marks. Additionally, periodically holding your knife up to the light to inspect the edge’s reflection is a useful practice.

Using a pencil is fine as a supplementary tool, but sharpening mastery comes from building foundational skills and learning not to rely too heavily on tools. A properly sharpened knife is one that has been cared for with attention and precision. Knife sharpening is a skill that lasts a lifetime. Take your time, and let your craft evolve naturally.

As you use a whetstone, you might notice black marks forming on its surface over time. These black marks aren’t just dirt—they’re what I like to call “a mirror of the user’s habits.”

The areas that turn black reveal how your blade contacts the whetstone. If only a portion of the stone darkens, it’s a sign that pressure isn’t being applied evenly. On the other hand, if the entire surface darkens uniformly, it indicates that your posture and pressure are balanced correctly.

When I was starting out, my whetstones often had patchy black marks. Back then, I thought "as long as the blade is sharp, it’s fine." But in reality, I was damaging the edge and wasting the potential of the whetstone. One day, my mentor told me, "Listen to what the whetstone is telling you." That was a turning point. From then on, I began to see the black marks as a checklist for my technique.

Another critical point is to never leave those black marks untreated. If they build up, the whetstone’s pores will clog, reducing its effectiveness. After each sharpening session, rinse off the residue with water and occasionally flatten the surface to restore the whetstone’s performance.

Think of the black marks on your whetstone as a letter from your technique—a chance to reflect and improve. By noticing these signs and making adjustments, you’ll gradually refine your skills. Pay attention to the voice of your whetstone, and let it guide your growth as a sharpener.

Have you ever thought the rough surface of a sharpening stone is just a texture? In reality, this "roughness" holds two significant polishing powers, and understanding them can take your sharpening skills to the next level.

The first is the cutting power that directly works on the blade. The abrasive particles on the surface grind the edge, restoring its sharpness. Without this cutting force, no amount of sharpening would bring back the edge. However, balance is key to avoid damaging the blade. Instead of forcing it, think of it as "letting the stone carry the blade" — this delicate approach is ideal.

The second is the finishing power that smoothens the blade. The rough surface doesn’t just grind; it also polishes the edge, leaving it refined and smooth. To fully harness this power, you need a consistent rhythm and precise handling. You'll particularly notice this transition when moving from a medium grit stone to a finishing stone.

I, too, used to sharpen blades without paying much attention to surface roughness. But one day, my mentor told me, "Read the stone's surface. Feel how it interacts with the blade." That one phrase changed my perspective, making me realize the roughness isn't just texture but an essential element of communication between the blade and the stone.

Next time you use a sharpening stone, take a moment to observe and feel the surface roughness. It holds the key to unlocking a deeper understanding of your sharpening technique.

There’s a magical moment when you finish sharpening a blade, and its razor-like sharpness leaves you in awe. As a sharpening professional, I’ve come to deeply appreciate how the manufacturing method of a sharpening stone impacts this moment. One standout approach is the low-temperature processing method.

Sharpening stones made using low-temperature processing retain a tightly packed crystalline structure because of the controlled firing temperature. The result is extremely fine particles that deliver exceptional sharpening performance, ideal for creating a smooth and sharp edge during the finishing stage. While the stone might look ordinary at first glance, the difference becomes immediately clear the moment you use it.

What’s more, low-temperature stones have unique water absorption and grinding characteristics. The stone’s surface feels luxuriously smooth when soaked, and the gentle glide during sharpening creates an experience that feels like a conversation with the blade itself. This makes them an essential tool, particularly when working with delicate blades or fine-edged knives.

I still vividly remember my first encounter with a low-temperature sharpening stone during my early days as an apprentice. My mentor handed it to me, saying, "Try finishing with this stone." The moment I pressed the blade to the stone, I felt a subtle yet profound difference—the blade seemed to adhere to the surface, and the edge achieved a level of sharpness I hadn’t experienced before. That moment left an indelible mark on me.

If you’re seeking flawless finishing and unparalleled sharpness, I urge you to try a low-temperature processing sharpening stone. Your hands will immediately recognize the difference.