Japanese Knife Sharpening Class

Learn to master the whetstone in this hands-on Japanese knife sharpening class in Los Angeles.



2 hours Location West Hollywood Class size 1 to 4 (public classes), 1 to 3   $200
LA Activities
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Craft
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Metalwork
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Cooking Experience Gifts
Discover the art of Japanese knife sharpening in this hands-on class in Los Angeles, led by experienced chefs and cutlers Bobby Seales and Daniel Chong, who first met while working at the renowned Nobu.
Whether you’re new to sharpening or looking to refine your technique, you’ll learn the fundamentals of Japanese knife care and how to achieve a sharper, more consistent edge. You’re welcome to bring your own knives and sharpening stones, but we’ll provide everything you need if you don’t have your own equipment.
Through guided instruction, demonstrations, and hands-on practice, you’ll build a strong foundation in knife sharpening while developing the technique and muscle memory needed to sharpen with confidence. It’s a great experience for home cooks looking to care for their kitchen knives or anyone searching for unique things to do in Los Angeles.
What You’ll Learn
  • Introduction to Japanese Steel: Explore the characteristics of Japanese knife steel, including how different steels influence sharpness, performance, and maintenance.
  • Understanding Sharpening Stones: Learn about different types of sharpening stones, their purposes, and how they contribute to the sharpening process.
  • Blade Angles & Edge Geometry: Understand the differences between thin and thick blade profiles, right-handed and left-handed bevels, and how blade geometry affects sharpening technique.
  • Hands-On Sharpening: Get hands-on experience sharpening your own knife under the guidance of our instructors. Learn how to adjust your technique, receive personalized instruction, and develop the fundamentals of creating and maintaining a sharp edge.
  • Building Technique & Muscle Memory: Sharpening is a craft built through practice. We’ll help you establish a strong foundation, develop proper technique, and begin building the muscle memory needed for consistent results.

Upcoming dates for Japanese Knife Sharpening Class

Times are Los Angeles time. Dates and prices as of 14 Nov 2026, 3:32pm; availability and price are confirmed live when booking on this page.

6 upcoming dates between 20 Nov 2026 and 5 Dec 2026.

  • Fri, Nov 20 2026, 11am-1pm
  • Fri, Nov 20 2026, 1pm-3pm
  • Sat, Nov 21 2026, 11am-1pm
  • Fri, Nov 27 2026, 11am-1pm
  • Sat, Dec 5 2026, 11am-1pm
  • Sat, Dec 5 2026, 1pm-3pm
What you'll get
We believe sharpening is best learned through practice, patience, and proper guidance. Rather than simply showing you what to do, our goal is to help you understand why each step matters, giving you the knowledge and confidence to keep developing your sharpening skills long after the class ends.
Knowledge required
Beginner-friendly!
What to bring
You’re welcome to bring your own knives and sharpening stones, but we’ll provide everything you need if you don’t have your own. For hands-on practice, we recommend bringing a knife you’re comfortable experimenting with, ideally one you wouldn’t mind sacrificing as you learn. Sharpening takes trial and error, so a practice knife lets you focus on technique and adjustments without worrying about perfection.
Location

West Hollywood, CA

Exact location is masked for privacy. You'll automatically get the specific address after booking.

Japanese Knife Sharpening Class location
More info

This class is new, and is covered by ClassBento's money-back guarantee.

Your teacher

Kirei Knives
Kirei Knives


Meet Your Instructors: Bobby Seales & Daniel Chong
At Kirei Knives, we believe a sharp knife is more than just a kitchen tool—it’s an extension of your hands and an essential part of the joy of cooking.
Bobby Seales, Co-Owner & Cutler, is a sushi chef at Nobu Los Angeles, where he developed an extensive knowledge of Japanese cutlery, sharpening, and knife maintenance. Known as the resident “knife guy, ” Bobby sharpened and repaired knives for fellow chefs while teaching them the techniques needed to achieve an ideal edge. His passion for Japanese knives and craftsmanship inspired him to co-found Kirei Knives, with the goal of making exceptional Japanese cutlery and knowledge more accessible to the culinary community.
Daniel Chong, Cutler, is a celebrated chef and a dedicated knife enthusiast. Daniel met Bobby while working at Nobu in 2017. After witnessing Bobby demonstrate a knife slicing effortlessly through paper, Daniel became determined to master the craft of sharpening. Through daily practice and years of Bobby’s mentorship, he developed his own sharpening skills and a deep appreciation for the precision, patience, and satisfaction that come with creating a truly sharp edge.
Together, Bobby and Daniel bring professional kitchen experience, hands-on sharpening expertise, and a genuine passion for Japanese knives to their classes. They look forward to sharing their knowledge and helping others discover the confidence and joy that come from using a beautifully sharpened knife.
At Kirei Knives, our goal is simple: to bring joy back into cooking.

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