Precision Edge: The Art of Handplane Sharpening
Schedule
Tue, 10 Jun, 2025 at 06:00 pm to Thu, 08 Oct, 2026 at 08:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
Artisan's Asylum | Boston, MA
About this Event
Class Description
This class is essential for woodworking enthusiasts who are eager to elevate their skills by mastering the art of hand plane sharpening. This skill is considered the most critical for effective hand tool work. Whether you're a beginner embarking on your woodworking journey or an experienced craftsman aiming to refine your precision and efficiency, this course is tailored to meet your needs.
You'll delve into the theory behind effective plane sharpening techniques, understanding the nuances that impact performance. Through practical demonstrations and guided practice, you'll learn how to grind precise bevels and hone a sharp edge. You will discover useful tricks and insider tips for consistently achieving a razor-sharp edge and optimal plane performance with ease. By mastering this foundational skill, you'll enjoy cleaner, more precise cuts, saving time and enhancing your woodworking projects with confidence and finesse. Get ready to transform your woodworking experience and elevate your craft to new heights.
The materials fee for this class is $30. This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts Venmo.
Students should consider these optional tools to enhance their learning experince:
- Handplanes: While handplanes will be provided for practice, students may choose to bring their own handplanes if they wish to sharpen and work with their personal tools.
- Sharpening Jigs and Stones: If students have their own sharpening jigs, diamond stones, oil stones, or water stones, they are encouraged to bring them to the class. This allows them to practice with their preferred equipment and receive guidance on its use.
Learning Objectives
- Gain knowldge of Handplane blade anatomy, selection, grinding, honing, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- Skills Learned in Sequence: Tool inspection, bevel and micro-bevel angles, grinding, honing, and stropping/polishing.
- Graduates achieve razor-sharp blades, cleaner cuts, and receive a Scary Sharp system lapping plates set, along with a leather strop and polishing compound.
- Students will have the knowledge needed to effectively use these tools for ongoing chisel maintenance.
Instructor - Steve Witte
Meet Steve, a skilled artisan with a keen eye for design and a mastery of hand tools like handplanes and chisels. Steve creates stunning furniture and turns ordinary wood into works of art. His teaching approach at the Artisan's Asylum is infused with his passion for craftsmanship, making every class a dynamic journey into the world of woodworking, where students discover their own creative potential.
Target Audience
Woodworkers of all skill levels and/or folks curious about Artisans Asylum's Wood Shop. Students who are 16 years or older. All students under 18 must be accompanied by and under the direct supervision of a responsible adult.
Your Ticket Includes
- Handplanes for practice and demonstration purposes.
- Abrasives and sharpening stones required for the workshop.
- Scary Sharp system lapping plates for each participant.
- Leather strops with polishing compound for each participant.
- Sharpening jigs for setting the bevel angle.
- Handouts and instructional materials for reference during and after the course.
- Participants will have access to these materials to ensure a hands-on learning experience and the opportunity to practice their newly acquired handplane blade sharpening skills during the workshop.
- Access to A2's woodshop and tools for the duration of the session.
Class Policies
Attire: For safety purposes, wearing closed-toe shoes is recommended to protect the feet from any potential hazards in the workshop environment. It's advisable to wear comfortable, natural fiber clothing that allows ease of movement during practical exercises.
Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies Here.
Please email [email protected] with any questions.
*Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep.
Where is it happening?
Artisan's Asylum, 96 Holton Street, Boston, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 132.75


















