This manual knife sharpener works in two stages. The first stage carbide (coarse) sharpens dull edges. The second stage ceramic (fine) provides a polished, razor-sharp edge. A reasonably sharp knife may only require this light honing. Use the sharpener to resharpen blunt knives or maintain sharp knives; it can be used for serrated and scalloped edges (ceramic fine stage only). The compact sharpener is already set at the optimum angle for German knives; simply pull your knife gently through each section. Colour/Pattern: Black Care: Clean with a damp cloth or mild brush, wipe dry. Place sharpener on a flat work surface. Hold the sharpener with one hand and the knife handle with the other. Insert knife blade fully into the slot at a 90° angle to the sharpener. Apply moderate downward pressure on the blade while pulling the knife toward you through the appropriate notch. Repeat this action, always pulling the blade from heel to tip (never back and forth) through either the carbide or the ceramic notch.