If I had to start learning honing again, I go the same way I did the first time. Started using Naniwa hones and eventually wound up with a 1,3 8, and 12K progression. The 1K you could forgo if the blades you will be doing do not need major chips and such removed. The 3K is a good bevel setter on blades in reasonable edge condition. The 12K is a nice finishing hone that works for use in touching up an edge that is just starting to go south.

The reason I went with the Naniwa hones is that they are consistent in the grit ratings, you get what they are rated at. Makes the whole thing less bother than trying to figure out naturals and their quirks. Synthetics, to me, are just a whole lot easier to learn on.

Bob