Knife Sharpening with Sandpaper Sheets: The Scary Sharp Method (400–2000 Grit)

Sharpening knives doesn’t always require expensive stones. With the Scary Sharp method, you can use 9x11 inch sandpaper sheets mounted to a flat surface like glass or marble to achieve razor-sharp edges. eQualle’s wet dry silicon carbide sandpaper sheets provide the consistent grit progression needed for professional-level sharpening.

Why Use Sandpaper for Sharpening?

Sandpaper sheets are affordable, replaceable, and available in precise grits. They cut quickly, leave predictable scratch patterns, and can sharpen everything from kitchen knives to chisels and plane irons.

Tools You’ll Need

• eQualle fine sandpaper sheets
• Flat glass or granite surface
• Spray adhesive or water for holding sheets flat
• Permanent marker (to check sharpening angle)
• Cloth for wiping blades

Recommended Grit Progression

• 400 grit — Sets the bevel and repairs dull edges. 400 Grit (25-pack).
• 800 grit — Refines the edge and removes coarse scratches. 800 Grit (25-pack).
• 1200 grit — Produces a fine working edge. 1200 Grit (25-pack).
• 2000 grit — Polishes to a razor-sharp finish. 2000 Grit (25-pack).

Step-by-Step Sharpening

1. Secure 400 grit sandpaper sheets. Mount to glass using water tension or adhesive. Run the knife at a consistent angle until a burr forms along the edge.
2. Switch to 800 grit. Repeat sharpening strokes to refine the bevel and remove scratches left by 400 grit.
3. Continue with 1200 grit. Work lightly, maintaining angle control. This grit delivers a fine, precise edge.
4. Finish with 2000 grit sandpaper sheets. Polish the edge until it reflects light and can slice paper cleanly.

Special Cases

For chipped knives, start with 220 grit to reprofile the edge before moving into the 400–2000 sequence. For chisels and plane irons, use the same method but ensure the tool’s back is flattened at each grit.

Pro Tips

• Mark the bevel with a marker to check angle consistency while sanding.
• Always pull the blade away from the edge to avoid cutting into sheets.
• Keep sheets wet to reduce heat and extend life.
• Replace sheets as soon as they lose cutting ability.

Aftercare

• Dry blades thoroughly after sharpening to prevent rust.
• Oil carbon steel knives lightly for storage.
• Store leftover sandpaper sheets flat and labeled by grit.

FAQs

• How sharp can I get a knife with sandpaper? With a full 400–2000 grit sequence, you can achieve a razor-sharp edge comparable to water stones.
• Do I need polishing compound after 2000 grit? Optional—2000 grit alone delivers an excellent edge, but polishing compounds can add mirror shine.
• Which packs should I buy? For long-term sharpening, 1200 Grit (25-pack) and 2000 Grit (25-pack) are great staples.

Watch & Learn

Sharpen knives the smart way with eQualle 9x11 in sandpaper sheets. See the full range in the Fine Sandpaper Collection.