How do you use a whetstone?

Answer 1

There are two types of sharpening stones, oil and water. When sharpening on a stone be sure to hold the knife at a 22.5 degree angle or you will actually be dulling your knife. Use even pressure along the whole blade and move it from tip heel along the stone. You shouldn't need more than six passes on each side of the blade. Finnish on a steel with the same amount of passes.

Some also argue that you should not use oil or water when using a whetstone as this can add to the abrasiveness of the stone.

An alternative "how to" would be:

Wash and completely dry your knife. Place your blade at a 22.5 degree angle to the dry stone (put it at 90, then half it (45) then half it again to get 22.5 degrees approx).

using even pressure, draw the blade along the stone for the entire blade length, either pulling towards you or away from you, it really doesn't matter which. About 10 passes are required, but it is important to use equal passes on each side of the knife for an even finish. Your stone should be of equal or greater length to your blade. If the blade is really blunt, do 10 passes on a course grit, then 10 passes on a fine grit.

Finish with a steel, using a 22.5 degree angle as before. This removes any fine pieces of metal.

Finally, wash and dry your blade.