Messages

Thanks Ken - I have re read your Tormek General advice - your right in saying start with a 3/4 chisel.  This is where I started learning the Tormek way.
The lessons I have noted in knife sharpening has been
1/ follow a fairly straight line - not follow the Curve of the knife.
2/ grade the wheel to the finer level.
3 remember to hone the burr off.j

I found it a steep learning curve as I needed to learn the Tormek system in a short period of time.  As pointed out it's easy to miss points that are critical to a successful outcome. I have been watching Jeff's videos and they are very useful.  The Tormek manual is also valuable ~ it's well written. 
Recently I have been learning about knife sharpening.  When I tried to use my T1200 a few years ago I was disappointed and went back to the diamond stones.  Again I gave up too soon. After some more reading (including this forum) watching training videos etc  I have identified some of the mistakes I made previously.  Hopefully I will become a proficient knife sharpener!

Thank you for the welcome you have provided.  This is appreciated.
The idea of using a different stone makes sense as does using the 1200 due to its portability and cababilty with different tools.
When I bought the 1200 I really didn't know how to use it and went back to diamond stones and Japanese waterstones.  This was a mistake!
About 12 months ago, I started working part time at a local Secondary school.  The job involves  maintaining tools and machinery in the wood work room.  On my first day I was shown their sharpening system - a Tormek T7.   I went away and reluctantly started learning Tormek way,
It was a steep learning curve, but a a very worth while one.
It taught me a lesson in perseverance and not to dismiss something due to ignorance.  I was so impressed with the method of sharpening I bought a new T8!
It's rewarding to see the students using sharp tools - hopefully this will encourage some to continue woodworking!  Too many aspiring woodworkers give up when they use blunt tools.
I'm sure I will continue to learn with expertise amongst members of this forum.  Thanks again!

Interesting topics.  Thanks for the information on using the Tormek to fix up the gap between the chip iron and the blade.  Having to stop planing and clear the jammed chips is frustrating.  I've recently bought a T8 and look forward to try out this out.  The new T8 replaces an old but good 1200.  Rather than sell the 1200 I am interested to see if anyone uses their older model together with their new Tormek.