How to sharpen a Knife

Why can't I sharpen a knife properly?
Most of my knife blades are only a fraction of the size they used to be, because all I seem to do is wear the blades away instead of making them sharper! They're all only half sharp - and before some bright spark says it - yes, a bit like me!
Have you folks got a particular gadget you use and could recommend that is simple to use and really works?

Re: How to sharpen a Knife

Mups I use a good old fashioned steel. My knives do gradually get smaller though and they are nice and sharp.

Re: How to sharpen a Knife

I've used all sorts of devices from steels to stones etc but this is the best and easiest to use that I have tried so far. It works really well.



That's one intended for fishermen but it is identical to the one for the home.

Re: How to sharpen a Knife

Fold over a piece of foil a few times, run the foil along as though you are wiping the knife clean. I use this particularly for scissors and works well, be careful though.
If you don't fancy that - have a look on Amazon, may find the Bruce gadget there

Re: How to sharpen a Knife

With scissors, you just cut through once folded foil, 3 - 4 times, done !

Re: How to sharpen a Knife

Thanks everyone, will give these ideas more thought. Never heard of the tin foil idea before Patsy, must give that a try.

Re: How to sharpen a Knife

Works for scissors by just cutting through the foil.
The knife I have sharpened this way is a smooth blade

Re: How to sharpen a Knife

I have tried many sharpeners in my time but for me this Swiss knife sharpener from Lakeland really works
http://www.lakeland.co.uk/1954/Swiss-Knife-Sharpener.

I think also available from Amazon and other outlets

Re: How to sharpen a Knife

I think the problem is many people are not sure how to us a steel.
I was shown an easy way by a chef which involves no arm waving...
.. you hold the steel in one hand with the tip pointing towards you and rest it against your stomach,
..now you slide the knife along the middle of the steel from the top of the knife to tip (heel to toe),
..turn the knife over and repeat for a razor sharp knife.

The angle of the knife is important, it needs to be about 20 degrees...

This is similar to the method I use but holding the steel on a board...

Re: How to sharpen a Knife

That's a really good video Meg, very well demonstrated I thought. Thankyou.