Chisel sets we recommend Best of the best: Stanley’s Sweetheart 750 Series 4-Piece Socket Chisel Set Our take: High-quality tools for the craftsperson from one of the world’s leading brands.

It's tempting to use a newly bought chisel right out of the package, especially if you're excited to work on a new project. But should you sharpen it first?

My take on it: I sharpen my way, and you sharpen your way (please, don’t send me hate mail on this topic). To me, sharpening is just the means to an end—which is sharp tools.

In terms of size of the station and position of the stones, you can easily adapt this design to your particular sharpening stones and needs. In my case, I sharpen chisels and plane irons.

Learn which types of chisels work best for woodworking, carving, timber framing, and masonry. If you work with wood, stone, or metal, sooner or later you’ll need a chisel. Whether you’re ...