Cabinet Scrapers & Burnishers

Cabinet scrapers shave fine shavings from wood surfaces, producing a glass smooth finish.  A burnisher burnishes the scraper’s edge to create a sharp hook.  Use scrapers to remove mill marks and tear out instead of sandpaper for a cleaner surface.

Cabinet scrapers shave fine shavings from wood surfaces, producing a glass smooth finish.  A burnisher burnishes the scraper’s edge to create a sharp hook.  Use scrapers to remove mill marks and tear out instead of sandpaper for a cleaner surface.

What are cabinet scrapers and burnishers used for?
Cabinet scrapers are used to smooth wood surfaces and remove fine shavings, glue spots, or minor imperfections without sanding. They’re popular among furniture makers, luthiers, and fine woodworkers for achieving a glass-smooth finish on hardwoods. Burnishers are used to form a sharp burr on the edge of the scraper, which is essential for cutting action.

How do I use a cabinet scraper properly?
Hold the scraper with both hands and slightly flex it in the middle, then pull or push it across the wood surface. The cutting burr scrapes thin shavings off the wood, leaving a smooth finish. Use gentle pressure and maintain a consistent angle. The scraper must be sharpened and burnished correctly to work effectively.

How do I sharpen and burnish a cabinet scraper?
First, file and hone the edge flat and square using a sharpening stone or file. Then, use a burnisher (a hardened steel rod) to roll a tiny burr along the edge by running it at a slight angle (5°–10°) with firm pressure. This burr is what does the actual cutting. Re-burnish the edge frequently, and resharpen when the burr wears out.