Dear Honies,

I was wondering if there is any criteria for choosing which stroke to use when sharpening. It would make sense to me to try to use the one most suited to the condition of the blade, but when do you make the decision to breadknife? Obviously chips are a good sign, but should you try to use one of the 4 strokes (from the wiki) as long as possible for convenience? Or is there a certain amount of smile that is too much?

Also, what are the expectations of customers? Do they just want a sharp blade, or do they (or should they) have preferences as to how you sharpen?

Thanks!