Hands-on class · Astoria, NYC

Introduction to Sharpening

Sharpen smarter, not harder.

$150 per seat 2 hours 7 seats max All supplies included
Book a seat Gift a class
Students at the bench during a sharpening class in Astoria

Sharper edges start with smarter technique.

Built for everyone from complete beginners to experienced sharpeners. Whether you have never touched a whetstone or you are looking to refine your technique, you will leave with the confidence to keep your knives razor-sharp.

Bring your dull knives and leave with three or more paper-slicing blades. You will also walk out with a deeper understanding of knife care, better habits around safety in the kitchen, and the ability to reproduce a clean, effortless slice at home.

Shopping for an unusual gift, looking for a hands-on date, or just leveling up your cooking? This one is a sharp choice.

How the two hours go

Watch it done, then do it yourself.

Small groups, one bench, and an instructor who sharpens for a living. Nobody leaves without getting an edge they made themselves.

45 min
Lecture and live demoAngles, grit progression, burr detection, and the common failure points and how to avoid them
75 min
Guided practiceYour own knives on our stones, supervised the whole way
After
Three or more sharp knivesPlus the technique to keep them that way at home. The exact stones and supplies you just used are available as a take-home kit, so you can try before you buy.

What's included

  • Hands-on supervised instruction
  • Workstation with a loupe
  • Our whetstones and all supplies to use in class
  • Aprons and towels
  • Coffee, tea, and water

Before you come

  • Arrive 15 minutes early to unpack your knives and get situated
  • You will be standing for two hours, so wear comfortable closed-toed shoes
  • Bring the knives you actually use, dull is perfect

Good to know

  • Booking more than one seat? Book each person separately
  • Can't make it after all? Seats are transferable, so you can send someone in your place
  • Refunds and credit depend on how close to class you cancel. See the cancellation policy
  • Gift cards redeem for classes, services, and the store
Student sharpening a knife on a whetstone Close work at the sharpening bench Instructor demonstrating whetstone technique Class in progress at Astoria Cutlery

Booking for a group? Buy out the whole class for a team outing, party, or a night with friends, and we can tailor it to your group or bring the class to you.

Ask about private events

Pick your date

Seats are limited to seven per class. Booking for more than one person? Please schedule each person individually below.

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