Sharpening chisels by hand

A sharp chisel is safer and far more pleasant to use. My routine takes about ten minutes per tool.

I flatten the back first, because no bevel will be sharp if the back is uneven. After that, a honing guide keeps the angle steady across the stones.

A quick strop on leather at the end removes the last burr. Between projects, a few passes on the finest stone keep the edge going.