Thread: My First Japanese Natural

You have made a nice choice for your first Japanese natural stone. As has been pointed out what you move to strop wise is fine after honing. I always use natural linen first after any stone I am finishing with. You will need your stone in your hands to determine if it even needs lapping. Using these natural stones is a learning curve and many similar naturals will behave a bit differently. You can search here and continue your learning process while you await delivery. And once in hand be sure to ask any questions you may have. You will always find help here and among our members are some world class honing experts.

Originally Posted by Phrank

What can you do to determine if a stone needs lapping or not? And is getting it truly flat the only reason to lap it?

Take a ruler and:




If it doesn't need it, don't lap it.

Originally Posted by ZethLent

I wouldn't lap it if it doesn't need to be lapped.

Without some kinda lazer device that hasnt been invented yet, how can i tell if its flat

I just saw your pic, i will give that a go . I will have to think long n hard about lapping it...
I do want it flat flat but i dont wanna lose the stamp

I think i will give up the linen and add those laps to the leather, just to see what happens.
I do think the linen is a bit coarse.
I thought the linen just heats the edge pre leather laps.

Originally Posted by JOB15

I will have to think long n hard about lapping it...
I do want it flat flat but i dont wanna lose the stamp

You will lose the stamp over time anyway. Don't worry it has no value. Just lap the stone as needed.