6 Tips for Sharpening a Fingernail Bowl Gouge

Before you begin, it's important to have the fingernail profile fresh on your mind. Remember that the nose of the gouge should be oval, not too pointy. And the side profile of the wings should be straight or convex, never concave.

Before you begin, it's important to have the fingernail profile fresh on your mind. Remember that the nose of the gouge should be oval, not too pointy. And the side profile of the wings should be straight or convex, never concave.

Tip 1: Split It Up
Split the tool into three sections: left wing, nose, and right wing.
Tip 2: Keep It Moving
Keep the tool moving, stalling at any one point will impact your profile.
Tip 3: Blend Last
Work on the left and right wing first, then blend the nose.
Tip 4: Be Consistent
Use consistent pressure on each section. Too much pressure may result in a concave wing.
Tip 5: Start Again
If the wings are concave, muster your patience, bring the nose down, and start again. Practice makes perfect!
Tip 6: Light Pressure
Use light pressure until you're confident in the motion. This will save you tool stock.

Before you begin, it's important to have the fingernail profile fresh on your mind. Remember that the nose of the gouge should be oval, not too pointy. And the side profile of the wings should be straight or convex, never concave.

Before you begin, it's important to have the fingernail profile fresh on your mind. Remember that the nose of the gouge should be oval, not too pointy. And the side profile of the wings should be straight or convex, never concave.

Tip 1: Split It Up
Split the tool into three sections: left wing, nose, and right wing.
Tip 2: Keep It Moving
Keep the tool moving, stalling at any one point will impact your profile.
Tip 3: Blend Last
Work on the left and right wing first, then blend the nose.
Tip 4: Be Consistent
Use consistent pressure on each section. Too much pressure may result in a concave wing.
Tip 5: Start Again
If the wings are concave, muster your patience, bring the nose down, and start again. Practice makes perfect!
Tip 6: Light Pressure
Use light pressure until you're confident in the motion. This will save you tool stock.