Soak the stone if it is a water stone, or apply honing oil if it is an oil stone
Place the stone on a stable, non-slip surface
Hold the knife at a consistent angle, usually 15 to 20 degrees
Place the heel of the blade on the stone
Draw the blade across the stone from heel to tip
Apply light, even pressure
Repeat the stroke on the other side of the blade
Alternate sides until a burr forms along the edge
Continue sharpening with lighter strokes to refine the edge
Use a finer grit stone to polish the blade if available
Rinse or wipe the blade and stone clean
Test the sharpness carefully
Dry the knife and stone completely after use