Michihamono – EZ Care – Lino & Wood Carving Tool Sharpening Set

Michihamono – EZ Care – Lino & Wood Carving Tool Sharpening Set

Sharpening lino carving tools is one of the most common challenges faced by woodcarvers and lino printers alike. Traditional whetstones demand skill and precision; if used incorrectly, they can actually make a chisel duller rather than sharper. Similarly, leather strops and polishing compounds offer only limited improvement and often fail to restore true sharpness.

EZ Care, developed by Michihamono in Japan, eliminates the frustration and guesswork. This innovative set is a simple, maintenance-free sharpening device that uses a unique abrasive-impregnated cloth to restore blade sharpness quickly and safely. No water, slurry, or special technique is required – simply polish the cutting edge directly against the EZ Care surface to revive its edge in moments. Even those new to lino or wood carving can use it confidently, knowing they won’t damage the blade geometry.

Included in the Set

• Sharpening Cloth: The heart of the EZ Care system. This specially formulated cotton cloth contains fine abrasive and wax, eliminating the need for additional compounds or polishing paste.
• Original Wooden Plate: A thoughtfully shaped four-sided wooden block designed to accommodate both straight and curved tools. The sides make it easy to polish not only the face of the chisel, but also the back of rounded or triangular blades.

When to Use EZ Care

• During carving, when you notice white streaks or a dull surface on your work.
• For final polishing after medium sharpening with a whetstone or diamond care tool.
• As routine maintenance before starting or finishing an engraving session.

Performance & Grit

EZ Care’s abrasive quality corresponds to a super-fine finish equivalent to over #8,000 grit, producing an exceptionally smooth and sharp cutting edge suitable for fine wood and lino work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What grit is EZ Care equivalent to?

→ It’s not a traditional whetstone, but its abrasive properties are comparable to a super-finish of over #8,000 grit.

Q2. Can it repair chipped or heavily damaged blades?

→ No. For blades with deep chips or significant wear, use a rough to medium whetstone or diamond sharpener first, then finish with EZ Care.

Q3. How durable is the cloth?

→ The sharpening cloth will darken with use but remains effective as long as it is intact and not torn. The abrasive is embedded within the fabric and does not need to be reapplied.

Q4. Can I wash the cloth?

→ Do not wash. Water will remove the abrasive compound and eliminate its sharpening ability.

Q5. What materials make up the sharpening cloth?

→ High-quality cotton fabric impregnated with abrasive particles and wax.

Q6. Can I buy a replacement cloth?

→ Yes. Replacement EZ Care sharpening cloths are available separately.

Why Choose EZ Care

Unlike conventional sharpening stones that require experience, or leather strops that only partially refine edges, EZ Care offers a controlled, safe, and effective alternative. It is ideal for printmakers, woodcarvers, and craft enthusiasts who need to maintain their tools regularly without investing time in complex sharpening routines.

Whether you’re restoring the precision of a Pfeil chisel, maintaining Japanese Power Grip gouges, or preparing your lino tools for detailed carving, the Michihamono EZ Care set ensures your tools are always sharp, reliable, and ready to create.

Utility Model Registration No. 3249302