Isabella Flores
Paint scrapers are used to remove old paint, wax, or polish from surfaces. They are also used to smooth out plane marks on wood. Scrapers need to be sharpened from time to time, and there are several ways to do this. This article will discuss how to sharpen a paint scraper using a file, including the types of files to use, the angle to hold the file, and the process of creating a burr or hook on the scraper.
How to sharpen a paint scraper with a file
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| File type | Fine file with single rows of parallel teeth, labelled "second cut" or "smooth" |
| File angle | At an angle, then with straight strokes |
| File motion | Two or three passes with the file |
| Edge angle | 90 degrees to the face |
| Edge honing | Use a guide block to achieve 8000-ish grit |
| Burnisher angle | 5-10 degrees off 90 |
| Burnisher motion | Swipe towards your body and away 2 times |
| Burnisher pressure | Similar to spreading butter on bread |
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What You'll Learn
File the edge at 90 degrees to the face
To sharpen a paint scraper with a file, one of the key steps is to file the edge at 90 degrees to the face. This means that the edge of the scraper should be filed perpendicular to the tool's faces. This step is important for achieving a straight and clean edge, which is crucial for the effectiveness and durability of the scraper.
When filing the edge, it is recommended to use a fine flat file without a handle, as this will allow for more precise and controlled strokes. The file should be taken over the edge first at an angle and then with straight strokes. It is important to hold the file firmly and use smooth, consistent pressure to achieve an even edge.
The type of file used is also important. Look for a single-cut file with single rows of parallel teeth and fine teeth labelled "second cut" or "smooth". Using a coarse file on a scraper can create deep scratches that are difficult to remove. Two or three passes with a fine file are usually sufficient to create a sharp edge.
Additionally, before filing, it is important to clean off any pre-existing burr by rubbing the face of the scraper on a stone or using a burnisher to file away the old burr from the flat side. This will ensure that the edge can be sharpened effectively and that the file will not catch on any remaining burr.
Overall, filing the edge at 90 degrees to the face is a crucial step in sharpening a paint scraper, as it ensures a straight, clean, and durable edge that will allow the scraper to perform effectively.
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Use a fine flat file without a handle
To sharpen a paint scraper with a file, it is recommended to use a fine flat file without a handle, as this could get in the way. The file should be taken over the edge of the scraper first at an angle and then with straight strokes.
Firstly, it is important to prepare the edge of the scraper. The edge must be straight and at a right angle, and clean. If you are working with a used scraper, file away any old burr from the flat side. You can do this by clamping the scraper vertically so the edge is facing you, and then running the fine flat file across the edge.
When using the file, it is important to file the edge of the scraper square to the tool's faces. This means filing at a 90-degree angle to the face of the scraper. You should use a fine file with single rows of parallel teeth, usually labelled "second cut" or "smooth". Scrapers are soft, so a coarse file will create deep scratches. Two or three passes with the file are usually enough.
After filing, you can smooth away any scratches with a sharpening stone. Some sources say you only need to stone the narrow edge of the scraper, while others say you should stone both the edge and the faces. However, it is agreed that the more polished these surfaces are, the more durable and sharp the edge will be.
Finally, you can use a burnisher to create the hook or burr. This can be done freehand, but it is tricky. It is recommended to rest one hand on the bench to control the angle, and use the other hand to draw the burnisher along the edge of the scraper.
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Clamp the scraper vertically and run a large metal file across the edge
To sharpen a paint scraper with a file, one effective method is to clamp the scraper vertically and run a large metal file across its edge. This technique was showcased by a craftsman at a woodworking show, who used card scrapers extensively.
The process involves securing the scraper in a vise, leaving approximately 40 mm (1-1/2 inch) of the scraper exposed. The file is then drawn across the scraper's edge in a vertical position. This action creates a burr on both sides of the scraper, enhancing its ability to pull shavings.
It is essential to use a large metal file for this method. Fine-toothed files, labelled "second cut" or "smooth", are ideal for scrapers as they prevent deep scratches. Two to three passes with the file are usually sufficient. If you are sharpening a used scraper with a blunt burr, start by filing away the old burr from the flat side.
Additionally, the angle at which you file the scraper's edge is crucial. It is recommended to file the edge at 90 degrees to the face of the scraper, using a guide block to ensure a straight and uniform edge. This step is vital for the durability of the edge, especially if you intend to roll a burr.
After filing, the next step is to use a sharpening stone or sandpaper to remove any file marks and create a polished surface. This step ensures the durability and sharpness of the scraper's edge.
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Use a sharpening stone to remove file marks
To sharpen a paint scraper with a file, you must first use a permanent marker to colour the edge of the tool. Once the colour has been removed, you are ready to stone the edge of the scraper.
After filing, use a sharpening stone to remove the file marks. Some sources recommend using a rectangular medium-grit grindstone (a 1000 waterstone, for instance) to remove the marks. The stone can be held just over the edge of the workbench, while the scraper is drawn back and forth along the edge of the bench. The final result should be sharp, clean edges at right angles to each other.
Other sources suggest using an extra-fine diamond stone, followed by an 8,000-grit ceramic stone. The more polished the edge, the more durable it will be. You can also use a coarse stone, such as a #1,000-grit waterstone, and then go directly to a fine polishing stone, such as #4,000, #6,000, or #8,000 grit. Oilstones or sandpaper are also good options.
There are many ways to stone an edge. One method is to use a "2″ x 2″ x 5″ block and move it as you rub the scraper against the stone, which helps to spread the wear on the stone. Alternatively, with thick waterstones, you can use the side of the stone and support the scraper with a block of wood.
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Use a burnisher to create a hook
To use a burnisher to create a hook, you must first prepare the narrow edge. If you are resharpening a scraper, use your burnisher to flatten the existing remnant of the hook edge. Simply lay the scraper flat on a hardwood surface and slide the burnisher back and forth, pushing down hard as you do this. This action is called burnishing.
Next, prepare a consistent rectilinear edge on the scraper blade. To roll the edge over, it needs to be square before you start. This often means filing a clean "top" edge—you only need to remove a tiny bit of metal.
Then, to finish burnishing your scraper, set it up in a vise and scrape the edge back and forth with the burnisher. Clamp the prepared scraper between two pieces of wood or in a padded bench vise. Roll each hook. You can hold the burnisher with two hands and position it at about 20° to the face of the scraper. Then, slide the burnisher back and forth, pushing down hard on the edge. Alternate "left and right" using the same two-handed technique and a reciprocal angle, to form cutting hooks on both sides of the scraper. About five passes (maximum) for each hook edge is sufficient.
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Frequently asked questions
File the edge at 90 degrees to the face of the scraper. If you are working on a used scraper, first file the old burr away from the flat side.
Look for a fine file with single rows of parallel teeth, also known as a single-cut file. The teeth should be fine, usually labelled "second cut" or "smooth".
You can use a permanent marker to determine if you have filed the edge sufficiently. Once the colour has been removed, you are ready to stone the edge of the scraper.
