Our new diamond films come with the option of being PSA backed or non-PSA backed, and this video gives a quick how-to about securing your non-PSA film to a surface, and how to change the PSA backed film. This is on the 1″x6″ Edge Pro size films, but the methods will work on all sizes.
Today I’ll be honing my Clifford & Howe 3/8-inch straight razor. The razor only needs a light touch-up, but I’ll take it through the complete grit progression to demonstrate how the process works.
More importantly, I’d like to introduce our 1 × 6-inch Jende Diamond Films in the Edge Pro format. We offer both PSA (Pressure Sensitive Adhesive) and non-PSA versions. Many straight razor us
ers prefer the non-PSA films because they can also be wrapped around a dowel or another shaped surface for use as a slipstone.
For today’s demonstration, I’m using an Edge Pro glass blank, although you can use marble or any other smooth, flat surface.
Using the Non-PSA Film
The installation is very simple.
Start by spraying a light mist of water onto the glass blank. The water creates enough surface tension to hold the film in place during sharpening.
Be careful not to use too much water, or the film may slide. Position the film on the blank and press it down gently. If there’s excess water underneath, simply wipe a little away to improve the grip.
Once the film is seated properly, it adheres surprisingly well. Although you shouldn’t apply excessive pressure during sharpening, the film remains securely in place throughout normal use.
Even when I intentionally apply more pressure than I normally would, the film barely moves. This is my 45-micron film, and once I’m finished with this grit, I simply remove it, leave a light layer of water on the blank, and install the next grit in the progression.
Installing the PSA Film
Now let’s switch to the PSA-backed version.
I’m replacing my 6-micron film because it’s reached the end of its useful life. PSA films adhere firmly to the blank, so peeling them off requires a little patience.
Even after removal, the film can still be used for certain slipstone applications, but once it’s lifted from the blank, it no longer remains perfectly flat. As the adhesive releases, small ridges can form in the backing, making it unsuitable for remounting as a precision sharpening surface.
The trickiest part of installing a fresh PSA film is removing the protective backing.
Once that’s done, you really only have one opportunity to position it correctly, so take your time.
I like to hold the film by the edges using my thumb and forefinger, allowing just a slight overhang on both sides. This gives me a clear reference as I align the film with the glass blank.
With the film centered, I slowly lower it onto the blank. Once the adhesive makes contact, it bonds quickly, so it’s important to place it accurately the first time.
After it’s in position, press gently from the center outward to remove any trapped air and ensure full contact across the surface.
And that’s it—a fresh 6-micron Jende Diamond Film, ready for sharpening.
