Just an idea, but what if the edge is in great shape and sharp. How about melting something that will melt at low temps say a rubber or plastic. Lay the edge of the blade in the melted stuff vertically. By doing this you would coat the edge with this melted stuff. Then withdraw the edge from the stuff and let the stuff harden on the edge. Proceed to sanding, knowing that the edge is covered. After resto is done, remove the stuff, nice if it would peel off but might have to reheat. Hmmmmmm lets see, what STUUF would that be?