Authorguda

Coding with relaxed eyes

Fixing wrong paths

Use case: You have a wrong path to a file. Instead of staring at the path and reading it segment by segment, the bext way is to list that path and start deleting from the end until you got the right segment.

This method will save you brain cells and eye power.

Example:

The error is on opening file: “/home/user/projects/pizza/seed/images/themes/pizza/01.jpg”

To fix it do

  ls -l /home/user/projects/pizza/seed/images/themes/pizza/
  ls -l /home/user/projects/pizza/seed/images/themes/
  ls -l /home/user/projects/pizza/seed/images/
  ls -l /home/user/projects/pizza/seed/
  ls -l /home/user/projects/pizza/

Then you can easily spot that the seed is not “seed” but “seeds”

final check

ls -l/home/user/projects/pizza/seeds/images/themes/pizza/01.jpg

It works!

Use finding instead of finding

If you have to search something use the find Shortcut instead of scrolling and reading. The “Find” command is faster than you and you can use it with variable, class names and more. Even you can search for part of the name

Goto Line Approximately

If your error is on line 459, to go there you can just use shortcut and then type a number around 459.

There would be no problem to type 450 and then you will instantly see 459 from your numbered lines.

Use Code Folding

Use Case: To minimize distractions, use code folding to hide parts of the code you’re not currently working on.

Example:

In most code editors, you can collapse code blocks by clicking the small arrow next to the line numbers. This helps you focus on the part of the code you’re currently working on.

Comparing two branches

To compare two branches you can use git diff …branch-name but this will require a lot of effort.

Good way to deal with that is by cloning another copy of the repo and having two repositories locally.

Usually I have “project-name” repositor folder and “project-name-other” repository name.

Then when I want to compare I use some GUI to do the job. Mine is meld.

meld project-name/ project-name-other/

Change directory

Sometimes you want to change directory of a file. My way of doing that is to copy the current opened file path from the editor with a shortcut. Grab the whole file path in the clipboard and then do cdf … like that

cdf /home/user/some-project/some-folder/file_name.extension

Here is how cdf looks like

cdf() {
    if [ $# -eq 0 ]; then
        echo "No file path provided."
        return 1
    fi

    # Join all arguments with spaces
    local full_path="$*"


    if [ -f "$full_path" ]; then
        # If it's a file, extract the directory path
        local dir_path
        dir_path=$(dirname "$full_path")
    elif [ -d "$full_path" ]; then
        # If it's a directory, use it directly
        local dir_path="$full_path"
    else
        echo "The path provided is neither a file nor a directory."
        return 1
    fi


    # Change to the directory
    cd "$dir_path" || {
        echo "Failed to change directory to $dir_path"
        return 1
    }
}

Development environment for dbt

How to setup dbt development environment
with vscode extension

1. Development environment for dbt

To be able to deploy fast in production and development, the configuration for the dbt should be set by environment variables.

This allow us to have quick switch between the profiles, schemas, variables and more..

Why we are doing today is to have an .envrc holding all the configuration for the dbt.

for example in development:

# Snowflake account
export SNOWFLAKE_ACCOUNT=YOURACCOUNT.us-east-1
export SNOWFLAKE_WAREHOUSE=YOURWAREHOUSE

export DBT_PROFILE=development
export DBT_ROLE=DEVELOPMENT

# Tenant / Used for the query tagging
export TENANT_NAME=CLIENT_NAME

# Source
export DBT_SOURCE_DATABASE=RAW_ZONE
export DBT_SOURCE_SCHEMA=${TENANT_NAME}

# Target
export DBT_TARGET_DATABASE=STANDARD_ZONE_DEVELOPMENT
export DBT_TARGET_SCHEMA=${TENANT_NAME}_${SNOWFLAKE_USER}

Note how we add the SNOWFLAKE_USER to the target schema, so that the users will not override their work in case they want to work on the same client.

To make this work this is what we have added profiles.yml

development:
  target: development
  outputs:
    development:
      type: snowflake
      account: "{{ env_var('SNOWFLAKE_ACCOUNT') }}"
      warehouse: "{{ env_var('SNOWFLAKE_WAREHOUSE') }}"
      user: "{{ env_var('SNOWFLAKE_USER') }}"
      password: "{{ env_var('SNOWFLAKE_PASSWORD') }}"
      role: "{{env_var('DBT_ROLE')}}"
      database: "{{ env_var('DBT_TARGET_DATABASE') }}"
      schema: "{{ env_var('DBT_TARGET_SCHEMA') }}"
      threads: 8


production:
  target: production
  outputs:
    production:
      type: snowflake
      account: "{{ env_var('SNOWFLAKE_ACCOUNT') }}"
      user: "{{ env_var('SNOWFLAKE_USER') }}"
      password: "{{ env_var('SNOWFLAKE_PASSWORD') }}"
      role: "{{env_var('DBT_ROLE')}}"
      warehouse: "{{ env_var('SNOWFLAKE_WAREHOUSE') }}"
      database: "{{ env_var('DBT_TARGET_DATABASE') }}"
      schema: "{{ env_var('DBT_TARGET_SCHEMA') }}"
      threads: 8

and to glue everything you need to switch to environment variables in the dbt_project.yml. Note that this feature is is not supported on old dbt versions. In the documentation it is written that we can use environment variables in dbt_project.yml

dbt_project.yml

profile: "{{ env_var('DBT_PROFILE', 'development') }}"

vars:
  source_database: "{{ env_var('DBT_SOURCE_DATABASE') }}"
  source_schema: "{{ env_var('DBT_SOURCE_SCHEMA') }}"

So the final command will be:

  export DBT_PROFILES_DIR="."
  dbt --no-anonymous-usage-stats run

While using justfile:

dbt:
  #!/bin/bash
  echo "SOURCE: $DBT_SOURCE_DATABASE / $DBT_SOURCE_SCHEMA"
  echo "TARGET: $DBT_TARGET_DATABASE / $DBT_TARGET_SCHEMA"
  DBT_PROFILES_DIR="{{invocation_directory()}}"

  poetry run \
    dbt --no-anonymous-usage-stats run \
    --fail-fast

2. Setup of the “dbt Power User” vscode extension

Install the “dbt Power User” as usual.

Open the vscode prefferences, as json.

Point the current folder for the profilesDir like this:

"dbt.profilesDirOverride": "${workspaceFolder}",

Associate the sql files to be used as jinja templates.

  "files.associations": {
        "*.sql": "jinja-sql"
    },

And then make sure you are using the correct python environment.

Enjoy the dbt!

Daily links 2024-06-04

eXtreme Go Horse :: #methodologies, #architecture
haha article https://medium.com/@noriller/sprints-the-biggest-mistake-of-software-engineering-34115e7de008

wireguard readings :: #wireguard
how to fix wireguard connection by changing mtu https://keremerkan.net/posts/wireguard-mtu-fixes/
collection of wireguard docs and tools – https://github.com/pirate/wireguard-docs

Cold starts and lampdas :: #lambda, #aws
https://aaronstuyvenberg.com/posts/understanding-proactive-initialization

Storage-First Patter :: #aws, #lambda
Store the request, then process it. https://dev.to/aws-builders/serverless-patterns-4439

https://cbannes.medium.com/decoupling-microservices-with-aws-eventbridge-pipes-3cef3a1dfce7

AWS Badges and certificates :: #aws
Those I think are free learning resources, and maybe obtaining the badge. https://aws.amazon.com/training/badges/

Refactoring :: #architecture
nice wesbite with a lot of information on refactoring including design patters: https://refactoring.guru/

CMS :: #api, #cms
CMS As API
https://decapcms.org/docs/i18n/

Free AI courses from Nvidia :: #ai, #learning
https://www.kdnuggets.com/free-ai-courses-from-nvidia-for-all-levels

Payed and free learning :: #learning, #javascript, #css
Nice CSS and Javascript and Figma Tutorials https://v2.scrimba.com/home

CSS for fast quick website :: #css
https://matcha.mizu.sh/#input

Learn CSS :: #css tips
https://css-tip.com/better-modern-css/

Alternative to screen :: #linux, #cli
zellij.dev

How to use payed models for free :: #ai
How to se Use payed AI for free https://www.kdnuggets.com/5-ways-to-access-gpt-4o-for-free

“Git Quick” VS Code Extension Review

Introduction

The “Git Quick” extension for Visual Studio Code is designed to streamline your workflow with Git by providing instant commands for staging, committing, and restoring files directly from the editor. This review explores its main functionalities and benefits, as well as potential areas for future improvements.

Main Features

Instant Staging and Committing

One of the standout features of “Git Quick” is the git-quick-commit command. This command allows you to commit the file currently in focus with remarkable speed. Here’s how it works:

  • Automatic Staging: As soon as you invoke the command (from the command palette or shortcut), the extension stages the current file for you.
  • Prompt for Commit Message: You will then be prompted to enter a commit message, ensuring that your changes are documented appropriately – and most import with the right scope!
  • File Save: If the file has unsaved changes, Git Quick will automatically save it before proceeding with the commit.

This feature is particularly useful for developers who need to make frequent commits without losing focus on their current task.

Quick Restore

The git-quick-restore command is another powerful feature of Git Quick. It allows you to quickly revert the current file to its state at the most recent commit. This is equivalent to discarding all local changes made to the file:

  • Instant Revert: With a single command, you can undo any unwanted changes, making it a lifesaver during experimentation or bug fixing.
  • No Activation if Unchanged: The command will only activate if there are changes to the file, ensuring that you don’t accidentally revert unchanged files.

Additional Features

  • git-quick-checkout: This is an alias for the git-quick-restore command, providing flexibility in how you interact with the extension.
  • Multiple Repository Support: If you have multiple Git repositories open, Quick Git will automatically detect and apply the command to the appropriate repository.
  • Integration with VS Code Git Extension: It relies on the built-in Git functionality of VS Code, meaning there are no external dependencies to worry about.

User Experience

Quick Git enhances the Git workflow by minimizing interruptions and keeping you in your coding environment. The automatic saving of files and seamless integration with VS Code’s Git extension make it a natural part of the development process.

No Distractions

  • Non-Intrusive: The extension won’t activate if the current file hasn’t changed, which prevents unnecessary prompts and distractions.
  • Focus Retention: By allowing you to commit or restore files directly from the editor, it helps maintain your focus on coding rather than switching contexts to the terminal or another Git client.

Future Potential

The current feature set of Git Quick is already impressive, but the promise of additional “quick” commands in the future makes it an exciting tool to watch. Potential future enhancements could include:

  • Quick Branch Switching: Instantly switch branches without navigating through multiple menus.
  • Quick Merge/Rebase: Simplify complex Git operations to a single command.

Download link https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=gudasoft.git-quick

Conclusion

The Git Quick extension for VS Code is a highly efficient tool for developers looking to speed up their Git workflow. With instant staging, committing, and restoring capabilities, it reduces the friction of version control tasks and keeps you focused on coding. As it stands, it’s a valuable addition to any developer’s toolkit, with promising features on the horizon.


For more information and to download the extension, visit the Git Quit repository. Also, check out other great projects from Gudasoft!

Daily picks 2024-05-21

How to Open Source python project :: #python
https://jonathanadly.com/open-sourcing-a-python-project-the-right-way-in-2024

Static analysis of python :: #python, #security
https://publications.waset.org/10013441/static-analysis-of-security-issues-of-the-python-packages-ecosystem

Snyk has limited free usage per month :: #python, #security
https://snyk.io/

Clean Architecture :: #svelte, #architecture
Good reading with resources and examples https://newsletter.techworld-with-milan.com/p/what-is-clean-architecture
It looks that chatgpt is good to show example project structure for hexagonal, clean and vertical design.
I used the following prompt “show sample file/folder structure for svelte application following the vertical design”
Verticle design architecture – https://www.jimmybogard.com/vertical-slice-architecture/https://www.jimmybogard.com/vertical-slice-architecture/
svelte example – https://github.com/tedesco8/svelte-clean-arquitecture

OData – Open Data Protocol :: #api, #REST
🔗 https://www.odata.org/
When talking REST there is a need for standard communication.
OData is a standardization of RESTful APIs, offering a uniform way to query and manipulate data. It provides a rich set of query capabilities directly in the URL, allowing for complex querying, filtering, sorting, and paging without additional
For example encoding the params the same way in the urls:
– $filter: Filter results are based on conditions (e.g., get customers with an email containing “@example.com”).
– $orderby: Sorts results based on specific properties (e.g., order products by price ascending).
– $select: Selects only specific properties of an entity (e.g., retrieve just name and category from products).
– $top and $skip: Limits the number of returned entities (e.g., get the first 10 customers or skip the first 20 and retrieve the rest).
– $expand: Retrieves related entities along with the main entity (e.g., get a customer with their associated orders).
There is nice [tutorial](https://www.odata.org/getting-started/basic-tutorial/)

Self hosted list with nice projects :: #self-hosted
blog with nice projects https://noted.lol/

Send money :: #crypto, #bitcoin
https://www.uma.me/

k6 :: #benchmark, #api, #data-listener
Nice and easy tool to do benchmark and load testing
https://k6.io/open-source/

Sikuli :: #testing
https://raiman.github.io/SikuliX1/downloads.html
https://github.com/glitchassassin/lackey

Daily picks 2024-05-20

From today we will start to publish some interesting links found during our software development practice.

Lets start

Guy build his CV as a game. :: #tutorials, #game, #javascript
It is not user friendly, don’t do it. Nice tutorial
Game/CV at: https://jslegenddev.github.io/portfolio/
Video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy_fSStEgMs
A lot of game tutorials at his youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/@jslegenddev

Golang youtube channel. :: #tutorials, #youtube, #golang
https://www.youtube.com/@MelkeyDev

Detective social game walk-trough. :: #youtube, #games
Fun to watch. Nice game review channel.

CUID2 vs UUID2. :: #web, #security
CUID2 – shorter, no collisions, hard to generate
Example CUID2: c00-v4-abcdefgh12345678
UUID – longer, collision, easy to generate

Fun codding problems from Easy to hard :: #tutorials, #interview
https://daily.dev/blog/fun-coding-problems-from-easy-to-hard

React porfolio website :: #javascript, #web-design
The guy stole a lot of elements and put a portfolio. There is nice discussion.
Discovered also this amazing website: https://wiscaksono.com/ and wiscaksono-site github, it uses the wakatime.com for the coding statistics.

reflow :: #web, #css
A reminder that reflow is a negative effect on performance.

Richardson Maturity Model :: #web, #api
A [maturity model](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richardson_Maturity_Model) for REST APIs
– level 0 – random urls,
– level 1 – resources
– level 2 – resources + verbs

Monitoring Airflow with Streamlit

Having a lot of customers on Airflow and monitoring their data pipelines could become a problem.

There is no way to find which one of 100 pipelines didn’t run today or has been processed more than once.

If you want to know the average times and when all the client pipelines finished you have to dig into the airflow database.

Do you have retries of your tasks? How many?

How your dag executions compared to the one from last week?

For that reason I decided to bring a dashboard with the metrics which I missed.

starting a new project with python poetry is easy and stable. Here are dependencies for postgresql and snowflake

I will use the open source dashboarding tool from https://streamlit.io/

poetry init
poetry add streamlit snowflake-connector-python sqlalchemy

pyproject.toml:

[tool.poetry]
name = "dashboard"
version = "0.1.0"
description = ""
authors = ["gudata <i.bardarov@gmail.com>"]
readme = "README.md"

[tool.poetry.dependencies]
python = "^3.11"
streamlit = "^1.33.0"
psycopg2 = "^2.9.9"
snowflake-connector-python = "^3.9.0"
sqlalchemy = "^2.0.29"


[build-system]
requires = ["poetry-core"]
build-backend = "poetry.core.masonry.api"

Then we define our connections into .streamlit/secrets.toml

[connections.snowflake-admin]
account = "mysnowflakeaccount.us-east-1"
user = "mysnowflakeuser"
password = "thepassword"
database = "theTenantsDatabase"
schema = "theSchema"

[connections.airflow]
dialect = "psycopg2"
url = "postgresql://root:mypassword@myhost-us-east-1.rds.amazonaws.com/airflow_us_ea
st_1"

And we are almost there… Creating the and dashboard is like:

import streamlit as st

snowflake_connection = st.connection("snowflake-admin", type="snowflake")
postgres_connection = st.connection("airflow", type="sql")

Then querying and displaying a chart/table is very easy:

import pandas as pd

def all_dags():
    sql_query = """SELECT dag.dag_id
FROM dag
WHERE is_paused = false
    AND is_active = true
GROUP BY dag.dag_id
"""
    df = postgres_connection.query(sql_query)
    return df

def runs_per_dag(dag_id):
    sql_query = f"""SELECT dag_id,
        ROUND(
            (EXTRACT(EPOCH FROM (end_date - start_date)) / 60)
        , 0) as duration_in_minutes
    FROM dag_run
    WHERE 1=1
        AND state = 'success'
        AND external_trigger=false
        AND dag_id='{dag_id}'
    ORDER BY duration_in_minutes;
    """
    df = postgres_connection.query(sql_query)
    return df

dag_id = st.selectbox("Select one:", all_dags())

st.header(f"Dag times for {dag_id}", divider="rainbow")
st.dataframe(runs_per_dag(dag_id))

The result will be

Then you can continue adding elements to dashboard and finally deploy it with Docker where you want to be visible.

For the deploy I used shipit and it is not the shopify one. That one is 4 years old and is small & fast. You can start deploying now, not after 3 days learning curve. I have no idea why such a precious gem is not popular.

You need only one file

.shipit

host='airflow-us-east.example.com'
path='/home/ec2-user/dashboard'

[deploy:local]
echo "Deploying to: $path"
poetry export --without-hashes --format=requirements.txt > requirements.txt
rsync -ahzv --delete ./ $host:$path/
echo "Open http://192.168.1.4:8501/"


[deploy]
  docker build -t airflow_dashboard .
  docker stop airflow_dashboard || true
  docker rm airflow_dashboard || true
  docker run --name airflow_dashboard -d --env-file .env -p 8501:8501 airflow_dashboard

[status]
uptime

The full dashboard code is on GitHub, awaiting you with a lot of useful reports and charts.

  • summary of spotted problems
  • comparing snowflake(other) table with the dag runs for a specific date
  • failed tasks and displays the number of the retries
  • Detailed list of the tasks – are they running on the right pool and workers?
  • Times for the dags, avg, sum, min, max
  • Finish time of all dags, tasks per day
  • table view of single dag history

Unlocking the Mysteries of Chmod: A Guide to Understanding Linux Commands”

People would likely experience greater happiness if they began learning about computers and became familiar with the meaning of the “chmod” command.

To aid in this pursuit, I have prepared a table containing a list of such commands. It is unclear why computer experts continue to employ abbreviations, though perhaps there are hardware constraints that necessitate their use.

The use of a terminal interface today is not necessarily the same as it was in the early days of computing. Today’s terminals may have larger screens, more powerful hardware, and more efficient input methods (such as keyboards with better tactile feedback and key rollover). Additionally, modern operating systems have graphical user interfaces (GUIs) that provide alternative ways to interact with the system. These factors make it easier for users to type out full command names and make abbreviations less critical for efficiency.

Nevertheless, in modern times, it seems somewhat peculiar to type “mkdir” instead of “new-folder”.

Abbreviated CommandFull Command
catconcatenateshow
cdchange directorygo
chmodchange modeset-mode
chownchange ownerset-owner
cpcopycopy
dfdisk freedisk-free
dudisk usagedisk-usage
grepglobally search for a regular expression and print
lslistlist
mkdirmake directorynew-folder
mvmovemove
psprocess statusprocess
pwdprint working directoryshow-path
rmremovedelete
rmdirremove directorydelete-folder
scpsecure copysecure-copy
sshsecure shellsecure-shell
sudosuperuser doroot-do
tartape archivearchive
toptable of processessystem
unzipuncompress zip filedecompress
wgetweb getget
zipcompress zip filecompress
sedstream editorsteam-edit
awkAho, Weinberger, and Kernighan

A modern software developer may choose not to use abbreviations when typing out commands in order to avoid confusion and ensure clarity. Typing out full command names can make it easier to understand what the command does and can help avoid mistakes that might occur when using abbreviations. Additionally, modern development environments and IDEs often provide tools such as auto-complete that make it easy to type out full command names quickly. Using full command names can also make it easier to collaborate with other developers and to share code with a wider audience. Ultimately, whether to use abbreviations or not is a matter of personal preference, but choosing not to use them can help ensure clear communication and minimize errors in software development.

Using oil stone for sharpening

how to clean oil sharpening stone

Cleaning an oil sharpening stone is essential to maintain its effectiveness and longevity. Here are the steps you can follow to clean an oil sharpening stone:

  1. First, remove any metal shavings or debris from the surface of the stone with a brush or a dry cloth.
  2. Next, use a mild cleaning solution such as dish soap or a specialized sharpening stone cleaner. Add a few drops of the solution to a bowl of warm water.
  3. Soak the sharpening stone in the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Scrub the stone gently with a soft-bristled brush or sponge. Be sure to clean both sides of the stone.
  5. Rinse the stone thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a towel.
  6. Let the stone air-dry completely before storing it.
  7. If the stone is particularly dirty or has been used heavily, you can also use a honing oil to clean it. Apply a few drops of oil to the stone, rub it in with a soft cloth, and then wipe off the excess oil with a clean cloth.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean an oil sharpening stone and keep it in good working condition for many years to come.

should I clean it every time I use it?

It is a good practice to clean your oil sharpening stone every time you use it. This will help prevent the accumulation of metal shavings, debris, and oil residues, which can affect the sharpening performance of the stone over time. Additionally, cleaning the stone after each use will make it easier to maintain and prolong its lifespan. It only takes a few minutes to clean the stone, and it’s a simple way to ensure that you’re getting the best possible results from your sharpening tool.

does the water damage the oil sharpening stone?

Oil sharpening stones are designed to be used with oil as a lubricant and cooling agent. While water may be used to clean the stone, prolonged exposure to water can damage an oil sharpening stone. Water can seep into the pores of the stone and displace the oil, which can lead to cracking, warping, or other damage.

That said, if you clean your oil sharpening stone with water as recommended and promptly dry it afterward, you should not encounter any issues with water damage. To be safe, you should avoid soaking the stone in water for an extended period and make sure to dry it thoroughly before storing it. Additionally, if you are using a honing oil with your stone, it is best to clean it with oil rather than water to maintain its lubricating properties.

why people use oil for sharpening historically?

The use of oil for sharpening dates back thousands of years to the time when humans first began to make and use metal tools. In ancient times, natural oils such as olive oil, animal fats, and even whale oil were commonly used as lubricants for sharpening stones.

Oil was used for sharpening for several reasons. First, it helps to reduce friction and heat buildup, which can cause the edge of a blade to overheat and become damaged. The oil also helps to keep the metal particles generated during the sharpening process from clogging the pores of the stone, which can reduce its effectiveness over time. Additionally, oil helps to protect the metal from rust and corrosion by forming a barrier between the metal and the environment.

Today, specialized honing oils are used for sharpening as they provide better lubrication and cooling properties than natural oils. However, the use of oil for sharpening remains a popular and effective method for maintaining sharp edges on metal tools and weapons.

what are the wrong oils for sharpning?

When it comes to sharpening with oil, it is essential to use the right type of oil to achieve the best results. While many oils may seem suitable for use with sharpening stones, some oils can actually damage the stone or the tool you’re sharpening. Here are some examples of oils that should not be used for sharpening:

  1. Motor oil: Motor oil is not suitable for sharpening as it contains additives and contaminants that can clog the pores of the sharpening stone, reducing its effectiveness over time. Additionally, motor oil is harmful to your health and the environment.
  2. Vegetable oil: While vegetable oil may seem like a natural and safe option for sharpening, it can turn rancid over time, leaving a foul smell and taste on your tools. It can also attract bugs and other pests.
  3. Mineral oil: Mineral oil is often used as a lubricant and preservative for cutting boards and wooden utensils, but it is not an ideal choice for sharpening stones. It can cause the stone to become slick and reduce its abrasive properties, making it less effective for sharpening.
  4. Cooking oils: Cooking oils such as olive oil, canola oil, and others are not recommended for sharpening stones as they can become sticky and attract debris and contaminants, which can clog the pores of the stone and reduce its effectiveness.

To ensure the best results when sharpening with oil, it is recommended to use specialized honing oils that are designed specifically for use with sharpening stones. These oils are formulated to provide the right level of lubrication and cooling, and they are less likely to cause damage to the stone or the tools you’re sharpening.

what is the best oils for sharpening, order the list by price

Here are some of the best oils for sharpening stones, listed in order from the most affordable to the most expensive:

  1. Mineral oil: Mineral oil is a popular and affordable option for sharpening stones. It is odorless, colorless, and readily available at most drug stores and hardware stores. It is also non-toxic and safe for use on food preparation surfaces.
  2. Baby oil: Baby oil is another affordable option for sharpening stones. It is made with mineral oil and added fragrance and is widely available in stores.
  3. Vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is a natural and affordable option for sharpening stones. It is readily available in most kitchens and can be a good option if you’re in a pinch.
  4. Honing oil: Honing oil is a specialized oil formulated specifically for use with sharpening stones. It is more expensive than mineral oil or vegetable oil, but it provides better lubrication and cooling, which can result in a sharper edge. Honing oils can range in price depending on the brand and quality.
  5. Camellia oil: Camellia oil is a traditional oil used in Japan for sharpening stones. It is a high-quality oil that provides excellent lubrication and cooling. Camellia oil is more expensive than mineral oil or honing oil, but it is highly recommended for use with high-end sharpening stones.

Ultimately, the best oil for sharpening stones will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and the type of tool you’re sharpening. It is important to choose an oil that provides the right level of lubrication and cooling to achieve the best results.

the best oils for sharpening ordered by quality

Here are some of the best oils for sharpening stones, listed in order from the lowest quality to the highest quality:

  1. Vegetable oil: While vegetable oil is a natural and affordable option for sharpening stones, it is not the best quality oil for this purpose. It can become sticky and attract debris and contaminants, which can clog the pores of the stone and reduce its effectiveness.
  2. Mineral oil: Mineral oil is a popular and affordable option for sharpening stones, but it is not as high quality as other options. It can cause the stone to become slick and reduce its abrasive properties, making it less effective for sharpening.
  3. Baby oil: Baby oil is made with mineral oil and added fragrance, but it is not as high quality as other options. It is a convenient and affordable option, but it may not provide the same level of lubrication and cooling as specialized honing oils.
  4. Honing oil: Honing oil is a specialized oil formulated specifically for use with sharpening stones. It provides better lubrication and cooling than mineral oil or vegetable oil, which can result in a sharper edge. Honing oils can range in quality depending on the brand and formulation.
  5. Camellia oil: Camellia oil is a traditional oil used in Japan for sharpening stones. It is a high-quality oil that provides excellent lubrication and cooling. Camellia oil is more expensive than mineral oil or honing oil, but it is highly recommended for use with high-end sharpening stones.

Ultimately, the best oil for sharpening stones will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and the type of tool you’re sharpening. It is important to choose an oil that provides the right level of lubrication and cooling to achieve the best results.

how to make honing oil?

While it’s possible to make your own honing oil, it can be challenging to get the right formulation for optimal sharpening results. Here is a simple recipe for making honing oil at home:

Ingredients:

  • 1 part mineral oil
  • 1 part kerosene

Instructions:

  1. Combine the mineral oil and kerosene in a clean container with a lid.
  2. Close the lid tightly and shake the container to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
  3. Store the honing oil in a clean, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.

Please note that kerosene is flammable and potentially hazardous, so use caution when working with it. Additionally, homemade honing oils may not provide the same level of performance as commercially available honing oils. If you’re unsure about making your own honing oil, it’s recommended to purchase a specialized honing oil from a reputable supplier.

how is made Camellia oil ?

Camellia oil is made from the seeds of the Camellia sinensis plant, which is native to China, Japan, and other parts of Asia. The oil is also known as tea seed oil, as the plant is the same one used to produce tea leaves.

The process of making camellia oil involves several steps:

  1. Harvesting: The Camellia sinensis plant is harvested when the seed pods are ripe and ready to be collected.
  2. Drying: The seed pods are spread out and left to dry in the sun. Once they are completely dry, they are cracked open and the seeds are removed.
  3. Roasting: The seeds are then roasted to bring out their flavor and aroma. This step is important for producing high-quality camellia oil.
  4. Pressing: The roasted seeds are then pressed to extract the oil. The oil is typically cold-pressed, which means that it is extracted without the use of heat or chemicals, preserving its natural properties.
  5. Filtering: The extracted oil is then filtered to remove any impurities or sediment.

The resulting oil is a light yellow color and has a mild, nutty flavor. It is high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, making it a healthy cooking oil. Camellia oil is also prized for its use in traditional Japanese woodworking and sharpening, as it provides excellent lubrication and protection for tools and sharpening stones.

how much oil to put?

The amount of oil to use when sharpening with an oil stone can vary depending on the size of the stone and the type of oil being used. As a general rule of thumb, you want to use enough oil to create a thin, even film over the surface of the stone.
For smaller stones, such as pocket stones or small bench stones, you may only need a few drops of oil to cover the entire surface. For larger stones, such as bench stones or honing stones, you may need to use several tablespoons of oil to create a sufficient film.
It’s important not to use too much oil, as this can lead to a messy and inefficient sharpening process. If you notice excess oil on the surface of the stone, you can blot it with a paper towel or cloth to remove the excess and create a more even film.

Can I use PTFE ?

PTFE, also known as Teflon, is a synthetic polymer that is commonly used as a non-stick coating on cookware and other products. While it is possible to use PTFE as a lubricant for sharpening tools, it is generally not recommended.
One issue with using PTFE is that it can be difficult to remove from the surface of the tool after sharpening, which can leave a residue that affects the performance of the tool. Additionally, PTFE is not formulated specifically for sharpening applications, and may not provide the same level of lubrication and protection as a specialized honing oil.
If you’re looking for a lubricant for sharpening tools, it’s best to use a product that is specifically designed for that purpose, such as honing oil or mineral oil. These products have been formulated to provide the right level of lubrication and protection for sharpening stones and tools, and are less likely to leave residue on the tool after sharpening.

For what people use wd40 on oil stoneS?

WD-40 is a multi-purpose lubricant and cleaner that can be used for a wide range of applications. However, it is not recommended for use on oil stones for sharpening tools.
While WD-40 can provide some lubrication and protection for sharpening stones and tools, it is not formulated specifically for this purpose. Additionally, WD-40 contains solvents that can dissolve and remove the oil from the oil stone, which can affect its performance and lifespan.
Some people may use WD-40 on oil stones for cleaning purposes, as it can help remove dirt and grime from the surface of the stone. However, it’s generally better to use a specialized stone cleaner for this purpose, as these products are formulated specifically for use with sharpening stones and will not damage the stone’s surface or affect its performance.
If you’re looking for a lubricant or cleaner for your oil stones, it’s best to use a product that is specifically designed for use with sharpening stones and tools, such as honing oil or specialized stone cleaners.

How to check if a stone is water or oil ?

It can sometimes be difficult to tell whether a sharpening stone is intended to be used with water or oil, especially if it has been used before and there are no markings or labels indicating its use. However, there are a few things you can look for that can help you determine whether a stone is intended to be used with water or oil:
Color: Some manufacturers use different colors to indicate whether a stone is intended for use with water or oil. For example, oil stones are often brown, while water stones are often light gray or white. However, this is not always a reliable indicator, as some stones may be the same color regardless of their intended use.
Porosity: Water stones are typically more porous than oil stones, which allows them to absorb water and release it slowly over time. You can check the porosity of a stone by placing a few drops of water or oil on the surface and seeing how quickly it is absorbed. If the stone absorbs the water quickly and appears to be porous, it is likely a water stone. If the oil sits on the surface without being absorbed, it is likely an oil stone.
Manufacturer’s instructions: The manufacturer of the stone may provide instructions or labeling indicating whether the stone is intended for use with water or oil. If you still have the packaging or instructions that came with the stone, this may be a good place to check.
If you’re still unsure whether a stone is intended for use with water or oil, it’s generally better to err on the side of caution and use water until you can confirm its intended use. Using the wrong type of lubricant can affect the performance of the stone and your ability to sharpen your tools effectively.

What is truing stone? Can be used with oil stone?

A truing stone, also known as a flattening stone or lapping stone, is a tool used to flatten and maintain the surface of sharpening stones. Over time, sharpening stones can become uneven or develop grooves or hollows, which can affect their performance and the quality of the sharpened edge. Truing stones are used to restore the flatness of the sharpening stone surface and ensure that it provides consistent and accurate results.
Truing stones can be used with both water stones and oil stones, depending on the type of stone and the manufacturer’s instructions. Some truing stones are designed specifically for use with water stones, while others are designed for use with oil stones. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the correct type of truing stone for your sharpening stone.
When using a truing stone, it’s important to apply light pressure and work evenly across the entire surface of the sharpening stone. This will help ensure that the surface is flattened evenly and does not develop new grooves or hollows during the truing process. It’s also important to clean the sharpening stone thoroughly after using a truing stone, as any abrasive particles or debris left on the surface can affect the quality of the sharpened edge.

What should I be careful of when sharpening with oil stone?

When sharpening with an oil stone, there are a few things to be careful of in order to ensure that you get the best results and avoid damaging your tools or the stone. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Use the right oil: It’s important to use the right type of oil for your stone, as using the wrong type can affect the stone’s performance and lifespan. Some oils can also be flammable or emit harmful fumes, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the recommended type of oil.
Keep the stone clean: As you sharpen your tools, metal particles and debris can build up on the surface of the stone. This can affect the stone’s ability to sharpen and lead to scratches on your tools. It’s important to clean the stone regularly with a stone cleaner or mild soap and water to remove any debris.
Use consistent pressure and angle: When sharpening your tools, it’s important to use a consistent amount of pressure and maintain a consistent angle throughout the sharpening process. This will help ensure that your tools are sharpened evenly and that you don’t accidentally damage the stone.
Use a honing guide: A honing guide can help you maintain a consistent angle when sharpening your tools. This can be especially useful if you’re new to sharpening or if you’re working with a particularly delicate tool.
Avoid overheating: When sharpening with an oil stone, it’s important to avoid overheating the metal of your tools. This can cause the metal to lose its temper and become softer, which can make it less effective and more prone to damage. To avoid overheating, it’s important to use light pressure and take breaks between sharpening sessions to allow the metal to cool down.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you get the best possible results when sharpening with an oil stone and avoid damaging your tools or the stone.

What is the best liquid which can clean the stone?

The best liquid for cleaning an oil stone depends on the type of oil stone and the type of debris or build-up you need to remove. However, there are a few commonly used options that work well for most oil stones:
Honing oil: Honing oil is specifically designed for use with sharpening stones and can help dissolve and remove metal particles and debris from the surface of the stone. It can also help protect the stone and prevent it from drying out.
Mineral spirits: Mineral spirits can be used to dissolve and remove oil-based contaminants from the surface of the stone. It’s important to use this with caution and in a well-ventilated area, as it can be flammable and emit harmful fumes.
Simple Green: Simple Green is a non-toxic cleaner that can be used to clean oil stones. It’s effective at removing built-up grime and dirt without damaging the stone.
Dish soap and water: A mixture of dish soap and water can be used to clean oil stones, especially if the stone is heavily soiled or has a lot of built-up debris. Simply mix a few drops of dish soap into warm water and use a soft brush or cloth to clean the surface of the stone.
It’s important to read the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific oil stone and use the recommended cleaning method. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the stone.

I don’t know what a “Simple Green” is

Simple Green is a brand of non-toxic, biodegradable, and multi-purpose cleaner that is commonly used for cleaning various surfaces, including oil stones. It is a water-based cleaning solution that is designed to be safe and effective for a wide range of cleaning applications. It is available in most hardware stores and online retailers. If Simple Green is not available in your area, you can look for other non-toxic, biodegradable, and multi-purpose cleaners that are suitable for cleaning oil stones. Just be sure to read the label to make sure the cleaner is safe to use on your specific type of oil stone.
What can I use in Europe instead of Simple Green?
If Simple Green is not available in your area, there are other alternatives that you can use to clean your oil stone in Europe. Here are a few options:
Dish soap and water: This is a simple and effective solution for cleaning oil stones. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water, apply the solution to the surface of the stone, and scrub with a soft-bristled brush.
Isopropyl alcohol: Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, can be used to clean oil stones. Apply the alcohol to a cloth or brush and scrub the surface of the stone.
White vinegar: White vinegar is an effective cleaning solution that can be used to clean oil stones. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, apply the solution to the surface of the stone, and scrub with a soft-bristled brush.
Honing oil: Honing oil can be used to clean oil stones as well as to lubricate them during sharpening. Apply the oil to the surface of the stone and scrub with a soft-bristled brush.
It’s important to use caution when using any cleaning solution on your oil stone and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific type of stone. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the stone.

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