User Tools

Site Tools


garden:cultivate:tools:care

Differences

This shows you the differences between two versions of the page.

Link to this comparison view

Both sides previous revisionPrevious revision
garden:cultivate:tools:care [2019/01/16 13:12] davidbacgarden:cultivate:tools:care [2019/01/16 19:46] (current) davidbac
Line 1: Line 1:
 +===== Caring for tools =====
  
 +==== Sharpening ====
 +
 +I keep all my tools sharpened. Work goes quicker and easier with sharp tools.
 +
 +A shovel with a curved blade depends on its edge to easily penetrate tough soil, roots and other materials. Keep this edge sharp with regular cleaning and sharpening. Use a large file and match the angle of the file with the bevel on the blade, generally about a 30 degree angle to help the shovel keep its edge.
 +
 +<note tip>And don't leave good garden tools out in the weather where the wood dries out and the metal rusts!</note>
 +
 +For the blade of my scythe I use sharpening stones to maintain a keen edge.
 +
 +==== Sealing wood handles ====
 +
 +{{ :garden:cultivate:tools:img_1436.jpg?300|Sealing with Linseed oil brings out the beauty - and protects!}}Regular maintenance of wood handles by sealing with Linseed oil reduces the drying effects of moisture and sunlight and brings out their natural beauty.
 +
 +For details see[[https://www.motherearthnews.com/diy/best-wood-preservation-zb0z10zhun|this article on Mother Earth News]].
 +
 +During the off season I mix Linseed oil and paint thinner in equal parts and apply several light coats to the wooden handles of my tools. Linseed oil dries very slowly so I do this in warmer weather in a dry area.  
garden/cultivate/tools/care.txt · Last modified: 2019/01/16 19:46 by davidbac