Messages

I do concierge sharpening as I don't want to have a job. I limit my customers so that I don't have a backlog of things to work on and typically finish a customers knives by the next day. The SG-250 works for virtually all of the knives brought to me. Only the super steel knives pose a problem and for those I have CBN. When I was starting out honing was the most challenging step and I found that I get superior results using guided honing rather than freehand.

The only time I take pictures is when I am asked to repair a knife with significant damage. Also be careful not to reshape or damage the bolster without written permission. Most users want their knives to look pretty and do not appreciate the change. This is the only time I would have them sign something. So far no one has asked for a bolster modification.

I wrap them in an old towel to protect edges.

Cash and Carry and once in a great while barter.

Great advice, thank you!!

Hi all, thanks for operating this great site.

I am new to sharpening.  I have a manual system now, and find it very therapeutic.
I am retired and want to start a small sharpening business.  I live in a pretty well-developed part of Tennessee, but there are no local sharpeners.

I will be getting the T8 kitchen bundle and a few other parts for it.

Will the Standard Grindstone SG-250 be suitable for most / all knives?

Do you take pics of the knives before and after sharpening?

Do you have the customer sign any type of form?

How do you keep different customer knives?  For instance, if five people drop off several knives in one day, do you keep them in bins, tag them with stickers...

What billing system do you use?

I know some will be tempted to say, I should not consider this as a business option if I am so green.  That may be true.  I will practice a lot with our knives and my friends' knives.  I will buy knives I don't already have, like a cleaver, and hone my skills (dad pun).  I have worked with my hands a lot and am very comfortable with tools.

I am looking for help in getting better.

Thank you