Stropping

• Start projects by sharpening tools with the provided leather strop.
• Apply polish to the strop, pass the knife blade on both sides, and clean with a soft cloth.
• Check the sharpness of your knife by slicing paper away from your body. A sharp knife should glide through the paper without catching or tearing.
• Regularly sharpen knives to prevent accidents.

Carving

• Start by outlining your spoon design on the wooden blank.
• Begin carving thin, shallow slices from the surface of the wooden blank with your Whittling Knife.
• Repeat the process layer by layer until you achieve the desired shape.
• Always carve in a direction away from your hands and fingers.

• Try not to make deep slices into the wooden blank (this can’t be undone!).
• The Hook knife has a double-edged blade so it will work with either hand.
• Use one hand to support and stabilize the wood, keeping fingers away from the cutting path (if possible it’s advisable to use a clamp to secure the block when carving with the Hook Knife).
• Alternate between the edges of the Hook Knife as needed, but be mindful of the exposed blade not in use.
• Remove thin, controlled shavings from the wood to gradually achieve the desired concave shape.

• Use the Detail Knife for any smaller cuts or decoration.
• Wipe all blades clean with a soft cloth and store it safely in the tool roll to prevent damage and rust (yes, even stainless steel can rust).

Handy Tips

• Soak the wooden blank in hot water for an hour to ease carving.
• Optionally, sand the spoon with 120-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish.
• Seal the finished spoon with a neutral, food-safe oil or beeswax.
• Wash your spoon after use with a mild detergent and dry it immediately with a clean cloth.
• Periodically recoat the spoon with oil to prevent drying.