Sharpening Blueprint
Standardize how you prep, ship, and evaluate your shears before and after sharpening appointments.
Pre-service preparation
- Clean and dry shears thoroughly.
- Record current tension setting and note any issues (drag, chips, misalignment).
- Photograph blades (tips, ride line, screw) for before/after comparison.
- Log clamp or screw adjustments made recently.
- Package shears in padded cases; include a checklist for the sharpener.
During service (communication)
Send a service brief containing:
- Make/model, steel type, edge preference
- Specific concerns (“tip catching on sectioning”, “edge feels chippy after slide cutting”)
- Desired finish (high-polish convex vs micro-serrated)
- Return shipping instructions with insurance value
Post-service QA (15-minute process)
- Visual inspection: Compare to pre-service photos. Look for consistent polish, no flat spots, aligned tips.
- Tension reset: Adjust to your preferred setting and record changes.
- Cut tests:
- Tissue test (clean slice)
- Wet/dry hair strand test
- Scissor-over-comb pass for barbers
- Performance log: Record sharpener name, date, cost, and quality rating (1–5).
- Feedback loop: Communicate issues to the sharpener within 48 hours if something feels off.
Troubleshooting outcomes
- Excellent: Smooth glide, silent operation, minimal tension tweak.
- Acceptable: Slight bedding-in period but no client-facing issues.
- Fail: Dragging, misaligned tips, or changed blade geometry—contact sharpener immediately.
Salon rollout
- Print the blueprint and place it in the backroom.
- Train assistants or new hires to complete pre/post-service steps before handing tools to the lead stylist.
- Store logs in a shared drive for warranty backups and liability documentation.