Hold the sharpening steel vertically with the tip resting on a stable surface or a cutting board
Grip the knife handle firmly in your dominant hand
Place the knife heel against the top of the steel at a 15 to 20 degree angle
Draw the blade down and across the steel in a smooth motion
Move from the heel to the tip of the knife as you stroke
Repeat on the other side of the blade
Alternate sides for several strokes
Use light pressure
Keep your fingers away from the blade edge
Wipe the blade clean after honing
Wash and dry the knife before storing it
Clean the sharpening steel after use