Cabinet Scraper Sharpening: Hook, Burnish, and Perfect Edges

Card Scraper Basics

Thin steel removes finish and smooths. Better than sandpaper for some tasks. Creates fine shavings not dust. Essential hand tool for finishing.

Creating the Burr

File or stone edges square. Burnish to create hook. Light pressure rolls steel. Hook does the cutting.

Using Scrapers

Flex slightly for best results. Push or pull as preferred. Refresh burr when cutting stops. Heat indicates good technique.

Applications

Remove tear-out after planing. Smooth difficult grain. Remove dried glue. Final surface prep before finishing.