In sharpening a knife-blade on an oilstone care should be taken to keep the blade nearly flat on the stone in order to get a thin, sharp edge. The knife should be sharpened first on one side and then on the other, until the desired edge is obtained.
Fig. D, [Plate 4], shows the right and wrong methods of holding the knife blade on the stone. Figures E and F show the results of careless sharpening. Fig. G is sharpened correctly.
Grinding Tool on Grindstone using Tool Holder.
[COPING SAW WORK.]
The following plates of birds and animals ([Plates 6] to [17]) are especially interesting to the beginner and are excellent for the novice to prove and improve his skill with the coping saw.
Wood from 1/4" to 1/2" in thickness is best for this type of toy, 3/8" being a good medium thickness to use. Pulp board, such as Beaver board, is also very good, as there is no grain and, therefore, little liability of splitting. Pulp board saws very easily and takes paint nicely.
All of these toys are mounted on a wood base, made of 1/2" wood, of a size shown on the various drawings. The animal is attached to the base with glue and 1-1/4" brads.