Clean the blades with soap and water
Dry the blades completely
Open the shears and secure them safely
Inspect the cutting edges for nicks or damage
Use a flat file or sharpening stone
Follow the original bevel angle of the blade
Stroke the file or stone in one direction along the edge
Sharpen only the beveled cutting edge
Make several even passes until the edge feels sharp
Remove burrs from the flat side with a light pass
Wipe away metal filings
Apply a few drops of oil to the pivot and blades
Open and close the shears to spread the oil
Test the shears on a small branch or stem