The term is given in Salaman. A Last -like object, used to stretch out the inside of the shoe, to make the shoe more comfortable. They are also known as oilstones , honing stones , and sharpening stones . Use a light lubricating oil, or water. Other forms of oil may have drawbacks for the unwary.
Water produces a keener cut on the stone, as does oil mixed with paraffin.
It should be noted that some stones require water, and oil will ruin them. Check any instructions your stone might come with. Don't be stingy with the oil, since it is not meant as a lubricant, but serves to keep the pits in the stone from becoming impregnated with metal as you sharpen. This is what forms the grime black slurry that forms as you sharpen, and what must be wiped away before it can clog the stone. Notice the bevel your blade forms, and try to keep this angle.