First tools, Cleaning and Maintenance?

[Fallen_Reality]

I was able to get my first few tools at a bonsai meeting! I got a concave cutter(No idea from which Japanese maker), root hook, a ceramic pot, and two plastic pots.

I was wondering how to clean and maintain the tools. The cutters need to be sharpened, too. I imagine just like anything in bonsai, it's different for everyone on how they do it. Any and all suggestions are appreciated.

 

[dpowell]

Best resource I've found is the series of videos here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycJFYqk-FAo

There's at least 3 videos which are worth your time.

 

[jkd2572]

If they are not stainless and it looks like they are not keep them dry so they don't rust. The videos above are very good. If the have have rust on them you can use a sanding block to remove it.
http://www.schleysbonsai.com/index.php?act=viewProd&productId=204

 

[Poink88]

Read this thread. http://bonsainut.com/forums/showthread.php?9798-New-knife

I posted some important info you need to know before you work on your concave cutter based on Warren's (concave cutter sharpening) video.

Hope it helps you.

 

[Fallen_Reality]

Read this thread. http://bonsainut.com/forums/showthread.php?9798-New-knife

I posted some important info you need to know before you work on your concave cutter based on Warren's (concave cutter sharpening) video.

Hope it helps you.

I read the entire thread and have some questions. You mention using glass or a mirror as a backer; what is that and how is it done? How does one use a water stone (Whetstone?)? What types of oil/lubricants are best for sharpening and tool preservation? Which side do you sharpen on concave cutters? Which way do you use a sharpener on a blade?