Starting Point - Assess Your Knife's Condition:

• If your knife has significant damage or dullness, begin with the coarse 400 grit. This grit is designed to repair and reshape the edge.
• For general sharpening or maintenance, you can directly start with the 1000 grit to refine the edge.

Sharpening Technique:

• Angle Control: Maintain a consistent angle (typically 15-20 degrees) between the knife edge and the whetstone. This ensures an even and sharp edge.
• Strokes: Use smooth, even strokes along the entire length of the blade. Typically, about 10-15 strokes per side should suffice, depending on the knife's condition.

Water Usage:

• Keep the whetstone wet during the sharpening process. The water acts as a lubricant and helps in removing metal particles, which prevents clogging and enhances sharpening efficiency.
• Don't remove the powder build-up: The slurry formed during sharpening aids in the process, so allow it to remain on the stone. 

Aftercare:

• After sharpening, clean the knife and whetstone with water. Dry the whetstone thoroughly before storing it to prevent any moisture damage.

Regular Maintenance:

• To keep your knives in top condition, use the 1000 grit side regularly to maintain the sharpness. This will reduce the need for more extensive sharpening sessions with the coarse 400 grit.

By following these steps, you can ensure your knives remain sharp and ready for use.