I've received my Norton 4k/8k, a few eBay less expensive blades to begin my practice of honing skills, and a pack of 1000 grit 3m sandpaper at Autozone for honing the stone. I'd like to get my skills started on the less expensive blades before I dare put a future 3 figure purchase on the stone. My questions are:

1) In lapping with the 1000 grit, is contamination of the 2 sides an issue? In other words, should I use a fresh piece of sandpaper on each side or is this a non issue which can be remedied by washing with water and a pumice stone? I've read many past threads here and at least found the better grade 1000 grit paper so that contamination from the sand should not be an issue. I'm also tempted to just try the stone fresh out of the box as it seems quite flat. (I purchased a piece of marble tile to use instead of glass).

2) Since I wish to get a good bit of practice in, what is the best way of removing a shave ready edge (but not the bevel) to start pyrmading practice again. My barber suggests running the edge on a pencil. I can also imagine back honing on the 4k side might bring more metal down into the edge.

3) I'm beginning to think about more blade purchases down the road, how hard is it to hone a stainless blade? John Crowley has a few nice one's listed (INOX). In the same vain, how hard is it to hone a wedge (I've seen pictures of some beautifully restored W&B 7/8 blades that are tempting).

Thanks is advance for your sage advice.


PS - I also have the 4 sided pasted strop from Tony that I will use for final tuning.