How To Sharpen Bonsai Tools
This only takes one or two swipes.
How to sharpen bonsai tools. Narrow and standard sized pliers the most important thing to know about how to use pliers for bonsai is the rule known as pull then twist when securing wires together first pull the wires tight then gently release the pressure as you twist. Some people use an extra fine file and simply let the file lightly go over the edge in one direction and then in another direction. This is a narrow angle bevel compared to most western tools. Once you feel this curl lightly run this edge across a very fine hone which will remove it.
Honing is the best way to sharpen an edge and there are several materials that can be used for honing an edge. In this video terry erasmus demonstrates how to clean and sharpen bonsai scissors and branch cutters. Sharpen a cutting tool until you can feel a slight edge forming on the bottom. Use a rust eraser like sandflex to remove light coatings of rust as they can affect both the appearance and utility of your bonsai tools.
The optimum angle for honing is between 15 and 17 degrees. Be sure any residue is carefully washed and rinsed away. The bulk of the sharpening is done to the outside or beveled edge. This video shows how to sharpen biting bonsai tools like concave and knob cutters using a tungsten carbide sharpener.
This is pretty easy if you sharpen regularly.