Handsaw Sharpening

Traditional carpenter saws were once a key part of everyone’s toolbox. They still can play an important part to handcrafting, and a sharp one will really cut the wood!

We will help you develop the skills to take a saw and put a sharp edge on it. We will begin with some basics on different types of saws and the differences in each tooth (we will focus on cross-cut saws and rip saws of the more traditional tooth – see photo), learn about “jointing” the teeth, setting the teeth, and tools/techniques for sharpening. We’ll finish with a brief exploration on how to use a saw effectively.

So, dig out that old saw and we’ll work with you to bring it to life. It’s amazing how well a saw works when it is properly tuned up.

Registration Includes

Instruction and all materials.

You should bring…

Bring your own hand saw (either crosscut or rip). Old saws are usually better, and small patches of rust can easily be cleaned up, but don’t bring a saw that’s completely rusty or deeply pitted.

Another note is to make sure you bring a saw that can actually be sharpened! Many newer saws are stamped out in such a way that makes it very difficult to re-sharpen. The top blade here is one that CAN be sharpened. The lower blade is a new saw, which we won’t be able to sharpen:

If you don’t have a saw you can work on, we’ll have extras for you to practice with.  Also, bring along:

• work clothing or a work apron
• hearing protection (sharpening can get noisy)
• a triangular “slim taper” file that is 6″ or 7″ long (available at most hardware stores and building supply stores – HERE is an example of what you’re looking for).
• If you have one, you can also bring a saw filing clamp (an example is in the top photo).  If you don’t have one, we can show you some ways to make one.

Skill Level

No special skills are required.

Best for Ages…

18 years and older.  14 -17 years old must be accompanied by an adult.