Free hand sharpening can be quicker and more closely follows the edges made on shears in the factory. Using a guided shear sharpening system with a scissor flathone is easier to use when sharpening a variety of angles. A guided system gives a accurate edge with a lower learning curve. Using a jig or a clamp is easier to learn than free handing.
The fastest way to flatten your good Japanese whetstone is with the Naniwa Flattening Stone. Both your waterstone and your flattening stone should be soaked in water before beginning for best results.
Learn what to do to get curved shears to cut. Curved shears need special sharpening and set correction not necessary in other shears. Curved shears are used primarily by groomers, but barbers and stylist commonly will have curved shears as well. Some curved shears are beveled and others are convex edge. Many have a slight curve and some have an extreme curve, or “C” Shape curve.