I have yet to hear from someone that the sharpeners work. Maybe for blades used for other purposes, but not for fabric. Using the 50% coupon at Joanns is good. Better still is when they are 40% off and there is a 20% total purchase coupon! I have also found some great deals on Ebay and so far have found the blades to be great. I really hate throwing blades out, but, I figure if I am thrifty with everything else, I'll just live with this!!!