How to Sharpen and Burnish a Card Scraper

Scraping the curves smooth

I use card scrapers a lot in my work. They’re not only extremely valuable for smoothing areas of difficult long grain, I also use them all the time for cleaning up and smoothing end grain as well. However, for a card scraper to work properly and efficiently, it needs to be sharp, just like any other edge tool. If a scraper is throwing dust and not shavings, it’s not sharp. A well sharpened and set up scraper should make shavings that curl up as the tool cuts.

Here’s the method for sharpening card scrapers that I’ve used for as long as I’ve been using the tool. Fair warning – this is an old video from my very early days of video making, and it was filmed and uploaded before home video cameras or the internet would support HD video. The lighting is also not great. However, the information in the video is still relevant and valuable.

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Bob Rozaieski

I'm a passionate woodworking enthusiast of over 30 years, with an interest in the methods of pre-industrial joiners and cabinetmakers. I'm a furniture maker, teacher, and author, and I share my thoughts and experiences with the goal of educating and inspiring others who are pursuing the craft of traditional woodworking. In addition to writing about and teaching traditional woodworking, I also build commission pieces for customers, and speak at woodworking shows and seminars.

    3 Comments

  1. Edward Sevensky
    January 27, 2021
    Reply

    Very helpful,as usual. I have two scrapers which I’ve never been able to get shavings from. Heading to the shop now to incorporate all your suggestions.
    Thanks Bob!

  2. jim
    October 13, 2021
    Reply

    You have a square block of wood you use to joint the scrapper. The block I use is square on one side and the other is set at 100 degree. I have a couple magnets flush with the wood to help hold scrapper. Great place to store you’re scrappers on the magnets.

    You have proven the angle isn’t crucial. Using a jig with a consistent angle is always better, even more so for new comers. Why use a block for jointing and not turning a hook. I’m sure you could file at 45 good enough. Why… it’s simple, faster more consistent with a jig you can even prep a scrapper before coffee 🙂

    I did enjoy you’re video, very nice info and tips. I never heard of the work hardening trick, I’ll surely give that a try.

    • Bob Rozaieski
      October 13, 2021
      Reply

      I use the wood block so that I don’t round the edge. While the angle of the edge or burr isn’t important, a flat edge with sharp corners is. If the corners of the edge get rounded over during the stoning step, it will be impossible to turn a burr because the scraper won’t have sharp corners.

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