Usage tips and maintenance:
Most Niwaki cutting tools are made from carbon steel: this material provides exceptional sharpness and cutting quality but can stain, oxidise and lose some of its edge over time. Good maintenance is based on three simple principles:
1. Proper use:
- Japanese steel is hard and extremely sharp but also more brittle than stainless steel — it can chip if misused.
- Never cut wire, metal, stone, plastic or any other hard material (even some bamboo fibres or knotted wood can damage the blade).
- Do not twist the blade or apply uneven pressure.
- Make angled cuts (following the grain) rather than straight across.
- Respect the recommended cutting diameters: snips are not loppers!
- Use the base of the blade for thicker cuts rather than the tip.
2. Cleaning:
- Remove sap, rust or residue with a Clean Mate rust eraser and a little water.
- Dry thoroughly, then apply a light coat of Niwaki Camellia Oil to protect the blade.
- Store your tools in a clean, dry place.
3. Sharpening:
- Tools do not require immediate sharpening but will gradually lose their edge with use.
- Use Niwaki whetstones (grit #1000 for regular maintenance) for best results.
- Sharpen snips approximately every two weeks.
- Sharpen shears and topiary scissors after each use for perfect results.
Regular maintenance extends the life of your tools and ensures a clean, precise and satisfying cut every time.
