FAQ
Please read this section completely before sending any emails.
What info needs to be in a reservation email?
When contacting me for a reservation, please include your name, business name, phone number, location and preferred days/times. Also include how many items are to be worked on, preferrably broken down by type (number of knives, number of scissors, etc.). If possible, use the Rates and Services information to calculate an approximate total price for the work.
How should knives be prepared?
Anything to be sharpened must be cleaned of grease, food, blood, hair, sawdust, grass, metal chips, etc. Dirty items will not be accepted, so please clean them beforehand!
It is preferable that they be carried in some sort of container with padding inside, to prevent items from rattling around and damaging each other. This could be a towel, paper or some other padding.
It is also preferred that all tools (pruners, loppers, paper cutters, etc.) be disassembled beforehand. There is an additional disassembly fee for my time spent doing that.
What process do you use and how long does it take?
I use a four step process. First, a belt sander for setting bevels and repairing damage. Next is the Razor Sharp sharpening system, consisting of sanding and slotted cardboard wheels to refine the edge. Finally, a cotton buffing wheel for a high polish.
Assuming no extra cleaning, repairs or distractions, it takes just a few minutes to bring a knife from dead dull to hair shaving sharp. For planning purposes, factor one hour per 15 knives or $150 worth of work.
Why a minimum fee?
Time, fuel and supplies are only getting more expensive, as we all know. Meeting overhead and making a profit is required for any business to operate. As much as I would like to be able to respond to all requests, economics must win out.
Can multiple people pool their items into a single batch?
Yes. Groups of individuals can combine their items into a single larger work order to make up the minimum fee. Alternatively, individuals can add their own items to an existing order, such as workers bringing their own knives to be sharpened when a restaurant does theirs. It is highly recommended that everyone mark or label their own personal items!
Everyone bringing items to be worked on will be bound by the same terms and conditions, even though only one person has to sign for it.
What would need an additional fee?
Tasks that add serious time and complexity to a job will need to be charged more.
For example: minor repairs may include rolled, chipped or bowed edges, broken tips or high bolsters. These are generally included in the base fee and would be fixed as part of the standard sharpening service. More extensive damage, usually over 1/4" deep, would need a full restoration or reprofiling and would incur an additional charge.
What about rush services, installment payments or non-standard appointment times?
Rush services, installment payments or appointments outside of the listed times and regions are not offered at this time.
How do I make money by hosting seminars?
My fee for any seminar is $300, regardless of student numbers. It is up to the host to set what the students pay, collect payments and then pay me. Anything above my fee may be kept by the host as profit.
It is recommended that hosts charge enough to compensate for providing materials and a location, but not so much that students are priced out. Remember: The more people that come, the more you can make!
Is there any cooking in the Culinary seminar?
We will be prepping fruits and vegetables for cooking, but not doing so in class. Feel free to take what you make home with you, though! Recipes for using the prepared ingredients will be provided.
Do you sell knives or equipment for your seminars?
No, unless otherwise noted all equipment must be provided by the students or the host.
Is it possible to schedule multiple seminars in one day?
Yes, depending on everyone’s schedule. A Sharpening class in the morning flows naturally into a Carving or Culinary class in the afternoon. Each class will be charged separately.
Will seminars give me “Stop the Bleed” training?
Though all seminars include a short lecture and demo on stopping bleeding, this training awards no First Aid certifications. There are numerous local organizations that provide quality medical training, which I highly recommend to everyone.
Is there a self defense seminar?
A self defense seminar focused on defending against knife attacks is still being written. Watch for this and other classes to be available soon!
Will seminars give me a shiny certificate to hang on my wall?
Yes! Everyone who attends will get a certificate of completion, suitable for framing.
What is your relationship to the Sonoma Cutlery knife store?
I currently have no financial ties to, and receive no commissions from, Sonoma Cutlery. That said, I will recommend them for any of your knife needs. They stock kitchen knives, hunting knives, pocket and everyday carry knives, as well as kitchen and cooking tools of all types. Laser engraving is also available for that personalized touch. They also have an in-house, drop off sharpening operation for small quantities of knives at similar pricing.
www.sonomacutlery.com 1620 Mendocino Ave, Santa Rosa 707-542-6433