I have the Orbitol Sharpener and it will sharpen a dull plate about 75% as good as a new one the first time if it has no large nicks out of it. The second sharpening is about 50% and the third about 25%. I don't bother sharpening a fourth time. Lens Mills in Canada sells a no name brand of blades (Clean Cut at $2.99). Occassionally these go on sale at half price and I'll buy 20 then. Sharp blades cut so much better and cut down the rist of the blade slipping and cutting you. To me, using a blade for months without sharpening or replacing is just not an option. Quilters need sharp tools.