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Sharpening a Scraper

T

URNING A GOOD EDGEon a hand or cabinet scraper is a recur-
ring problem among many woodworkers. Here are some tips.
After the scraper edge is polished and square to the smooth sides
(no file marks), many workers frequently neglect to burnish the broad,
flat surface of the scraper. This step must be done carefully if you want
to obtain a good hook on the cutting edge.
With the scraper lying flat, close to the workbench edge, burnish
each flat side, keeping the burnisher flat on the side of the scraper.
I draw the cutting edge slightly by pulling the burnisher toward me
with long, firm strokes. Under magnification you would actually see
two ears protruding above the scraper sides, as shown in the above
drawing.
In preparation for burnishing the top edge of the blade, first put a
drop or two of oil on the burnisher. Place the burnisher flat on the far
end of the scraper, held vertically in a vise, and firmly pull it toward
you. Two or three strokes should do; the first at 90 ̊ and then with the
handle lowered slightly at 85 ̊ to the side of the scraper, as shown in
the drawing. It is important to hold the burnisher firmly by the handle
and make long, slicing strokes, which extend over a large section of

CHAPTER FOUR

Pull burnisher toward you

as you stroke the blade.

Make first

stroke at 90°.

Make final

stroke at 85°.

90° 85°

Cutting edge is

drawn slightly.