One Woodworker's Sharpening Process

With all of the methods, jigs, machines, discussions, and gadgets associated with sharpening, it can be confusing to determine where to start. If you are reading this article, I can assume you have come to the understanding that sharp tools are a necessity rather than a luxury. As with anything, there are myriad debates regarding which method is "best" and how-to videos galore, usually reaching a crescendo of someone shaving their arm with a chisel to demonstrate the sharpness of their edge measured in varying degrees of "scariness." While I must admit to testing an edge or two on my arm, I always recall what one of my mentors and teachers, Chris Pye, stated regarding "hair-popping edges." He said - "Well, I'm not carving hair, am I?"