My New Stones

[kelebekcc]

My new stones are arrived from Japanwoodworker.

DMT 325
Nonpariel Blue (Aoto) Water Stone (2k on tag but site description is manufactured from a combination of #1000 to #3000 grit abrasives in a binder of natural clays. Stamps are look same but i don't know if it is a Jimzo stone. According to some comments it's like 4k or 5k, more than 2k.)
Takenoko 8k

Thinking to seal with nail polish before use. All sides are flat. Can i use non writing side for protect stamps or should i use writing side for honing? Should i soak before use and how long? All other recommends are welcome too.

I have also DMT 1200, Naniwa 12k, Lapping Films and crox

 

[Gamma]

Very nice, I would like one of those hybrid Aoto stones.
Dunno if you need to seal them but it can't hurt I guess.
Cant imagine that using either side matters either.

 

[Steve56]

Seal the blue synthetic aoto, some brands of this type stone have had issues. I don't know if this brand does, but it couldn't hurt. I doubt the other needs sealing but again, it won't hurt.

You should be able to use either side, but make sure it's flat.

Cheers, Steve

 

[kelebekcc]

Thank you Gamma and Steve. I'm new on natural stones. So i will play for a while and i will let you know. I tried without soaking. So far i like both. Aoto is soft and drinking water, slurry is drying quickly. Takenoko is good too.

Gamma by the way you have a great site and youtube channel for naturals. Close up and quality honing videos will help me.