Train to Be Sharp
Learn the craft and the business of professional knife sharpening — verified with real instruments, paid back in months, not years.
Four Modules
Offered separately so you can pick the path that fits your goals. Most students start with the one-inch course — modules can be combined in any configuration for full coverage.
One-Inch Grinder
$600
Our flagship module, focused on small-machine sharpening — the workhorse of a residential and small-commercial practice. Most students start here.
Learn moreTwo-Inch Grinder
$400
For students who want to handle larger blades and higher volume on a bigger belt platform. Pairs naturally with the one-inch course.
Learn moreBusiness Process & Automation
$200
Tips, tricks, and insights from how we actually run Cove Blades — AI automation for inbound calls and texts, plus the logistical playbook for drop-off, pickup, and mobile operations. The lay-of-the-land before you build your own.
Learn moreBuild Your Business with AI — Hands-On
$600
A 3-4 hour one-on-one build session. Together we set up your website, email marketing, social profiles, business cards, phone number, and AI assistant — all using modern AI tooling. Walk out with a working business toolkit and the playbook to maintain it.
Learn moreTuition is payable in advance and non-refundable.
The Practicum
Verified, not assumed
We use a sharpness tester and microscope to confirm you can produce — and consistently repeat — a commercially viable apex. You leave when the data says you're there.
Hands-on, not lecture
Two to three days of targeted theory paired with extensive practice on training knives we provide. You're behind the machines for the majority of the time.
A billable skill
You leave with the foundation to offer sharpening as a paid service. Most students recoup tuition within one to two months and build from there.
Recoup in One to Two Months
Most students recoup their tuition within one to two months — though mileage will vary. If you put effort into marketing, you can break even sooner. Students who already have experience with social media or Google Ads tend to get there faster.
By the end of the course, you'll have the skills to charge in the neighborhood of $200 per hour, with rates depending on whether you operate as a drop-off shop or run mobile. With practice and a bit of brand recognition, many students hit that benchmark inside their first week of working solo.
Start at $300, Scale to a Van
I'll advise you on which machines to buy — Amazon is generally the best source. Consumables (primarily belts) can be purchased through me at below-market rates, since I source directly from the manufacturer. You're welcome to buy elsewhere, but going through me is the most economical option.
Startup costs typically range from $300 to $15,000, depending on your initial setup. For reference, a mobile power station (inverter, batteries, and car charging included) runs about $1,200; a van is around $13,000.
My recommendation: start with a single machine, operate from your garage or home, and reinvest profits as you scale.
Onsite or Mobile
Training takes place onsite at our home office in North Vancouver. Mobile training is also available, provided you have level parking.
Request a Training Session
Tell us which course (or combination) interests you and what you'd like to get out of it.
Want to Talk First?
Happy to set up a call to walk through the details and help you decide which course fits. You're also welcome to come by, see the setup in person, and have a conversation before deciding whether to move forward.