How to use an oilstone efficiently => 4 photos

 Any oilstone can be used easily to sharpen your gravers. The main problem is to KEEP THE OILSTONE CLEAN from minute metal shavings from your gravers.

 The metal shavings can be so very small that they can be almost microscopic at times. BUT THEY ARE THERE TO CAUSE MUCH HAVOC, when you won't suspect it. 

  I liberally apply a layer of oil onto the stone. This is not to lubricate the stone, but to keep those minute shavings in suspension while the blade is being sharpened.  

 At many times during the graver sharpening, STOP and wipe the oilstone clean from those little 'graver shavings'. Then liberally re-apply your choice of oil.

  If you wish to use another thick oil-based solution of a higher (thinker) viscosity, try using "motor oil". It works just as same as the "3 in 1" (as seen in the background).