Quote Originally Posted by Roham
I always wondered if and how you can get blades sharp enough to shave... You say rub it on cardboard??? Explain that a bit more if you could
This method is known as stropping or convexing the edge. Instead of having a v-grind or hollow grind you strop the blade on leather to convex the edge (like an ax or hatchet). I know you've seen barbers do this. You can also use the "textured" cardboard that is usually found on the backs of most school notebooks. This method is crude but I recommend it for cheap blades. I'm not gonna strop a $300 Microtech on cardboard but you get the idea.

I've also used the back of my belt as a "field" sharpener for my Victorinox SAKs. I have shaved with a Vic SAK before. I wouldn't trade it for a traditional razor but it works.

There is a plethora of sharpening info. on the interweb. Like I said before, buy a Spyderco 204 and practice on some cheap blades. When you get good you can move up to other methods.

If you want some more info check out the boards at Knife Forums