Not to but heads with Frank (but we do [
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])
Sharpening is one of the most important skills in woodturning.. without sharp tools you might as well take a axe to your wood..
I can't freehand sharpen worth a darn.... especially gouges...
I use the Woodcraft slow speed grinder, it is currently on sale for $69 http://www.woodcraft.com/family.aspx?DeptID=2054&FamilyID=4605
It comes with an 60 and a 120 grit set of white wheels... I have been using mine for almost 2 years and the wheels are still good.. just remember to dress them occassionally...
I also use the Wolverine Sharpening Jig #A in this thread http://www.woodcraft.com/family.aspx?DeptID=2056&FamilyID=1998. I also have their gouge jig for use with my Celtic Ground Bowl gouges..
I have found I don't need their skew jig because my skews are reshaped to a Lacer grind...
OK, that's two members and two opinions...