Sharpen Japanese Knives with Newspaper

Who says there's no more use for print newspapers? In Japan, they're a secret tool for keeping knives sharp. The graphite of a newspaper's black ink produces an effect similar to that of a very fine polish—the particularly dense grit works best on the ultrathin edge of Japanese knives. Just lay the blade flat on a sheet of newspaper, and lightly glide it across. Do the same thing with the other side of the blade. Yesterday's paper will have a new life, and your knives will be razor sharp. That's good news for everyone.

Techniques

Sharpen Japanese Knives with Newspaper

Who says there's no more use for print newspapers? In Japan, they're a secret tool for keeping knives sharp. The graphite of a newspaper's black ink produces an effect similar to that of a very fine polish—the particularly dense grit works best on the ultrathin edge of Japanese knives. Just lay the blade flat on a sheet of newspaper, and lightly glide it across. Do the same thing with the other side of the blade. Yesterday's paper will have a new life, and your knives will be razor sharp. That's good news for everyone.

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